April 10, 2026
12 min. read
The SOF International Mathematics Olympiad is conducted annually by the Science Olympiad Foundation for students in Classes 1–12, across two competitive levels.
Sample papers matter because they do three things at once.
They simulate real exam conditions, reveal which topics carry the most weight, and build the speed and accuracy that makes a difference on exam day.
This page gives you everything: free sof imo sample paper PDFs, the full exam pattern 2026-27 and a clear preparation strategy.
If you also need the topic-by-topic breakdown before downloading, check the SOF IMO syllabus guide first then come back here for the papers.
SOF IMO Exam Pattern 2026–27
The exam is divided into four sections.
The exact number of questions and total marks vary slightly by class; the table below reflects the standard mid-class pattern (Classes 5–8).
Check the class-specific notes in the download sections below for variations.
| Section | No. of Questions | Marks per Question | Total Marks |
| Logical Reasoning | 10 | 1 | 10 |
| Mathematical Reasoning | 20 | 1 | 20 |
| Everyday Mathematics | 10 | 1 | 10 |
| Achievers Section | 5 | 3 | 15 |
| Total | 45 | — | 55 |
Note: For Classes 1–4, the paper structure is slightly simplified. For Classes 9–12, total questions may vary. Always refer to the official SOF notification for the current session.
The Achievers Section deserves special attention. These 5 questions carry 3 marks each, nearly 27% of your total marks.
They’re harder, but that’s also where ranks shift.
A student who answers 3–4 Achievers Section questions correctly while their peers skip them can jump dozens of positions in the rankings.
Level 2 pattern: Level 2 follows a similar sectional structure but with noticeably harder questions, a smaller candidate pool, and a stronger emphasis on conceptual depth and higher-order reasoning.
There is no negative marking for most classes in both levels and always verify this in the official SOF bulletin for your class and year.
To learn more, view the SOF IMO Exam Pattern here.
SOF IMO Sample Papers 2026–27 – Class-Wise Free PDF Download ⬇️
Select your class below to access your SOF IMO sample paper PDF instantly.
Each paper is aligned to the 2026–27 session pattern and includes an answer key.
SOF IMO Sample Papers – Class 1
Key topics: Number sense, basic counting, simple addition and subtraction, patterns, shapes, and spatial reasoning.
The Class 1 paper is designed to be approachable for first-time participants, but patterns and logical reasoning questions can trip up students who haven’t practised them specifically.
The SOF IMO sample paper for Class 1 helps children understand the format before exam day which is often more valuable than the content itself at this level.
⬇ Download Class 1 SOF IMO Sample Paper PDF – 2026–27
Answer key included in the PDF. Additional solutions available on Gonit App.
SOF IMO Sample Papers – Class 2
Key topics: Addition and subtraction (2-digit), basic multiplication concepts, time and calendar, shapes, and simple patterns.
Class 2 introduces slightly more structured problem types.
Students benefit from attempting the sample paper under timed conditions even 30 minutes of focused practice makes a difference.
⬇ Download Class 2 SOF IMO Sample Paper PDF – 2026–27
Answer key included. Worked solutions available on Gonit App.
SOF IMO Sample Papers – Class 3
Key topics: Multiplication and division, fractions (basic), measurement, geometry shapes, and data handling (simple bar graphs).
Class 3 is the first level at which Level 2 eligibility kicks in.
Students aiming beyond Level 1 should treat these sample papers as a baseline and push toward Gonit App’s timed practice sets for deeper preparation.
⬇ Download Class 3 SOF IMO Sample Paper PDF – 2026–27
Answer key included. Level 2 practice available on Gonit App.
SOF IMO Sample Papers – Class 4
Key topics: Large numbers, factors and multiples, fractions and decimals (intro), perimeter and area basics, simple geometry.
By Class 4, the Everyday Mathematics section becomes more word-problem heavy.
Practising the SOF IMO Class 4 sample paper helps students get comfortable converting real-world scenarios into equations quickly.
⬇ Download Class 4 SOF IMO Sample Paper PDF – 2026–27
Answer key included. Solutions available on Gonit App.
SOF IMO Sample Papers – Class 5
Key topics: Fractions and decimals, LCM and HCF, ratio and proportion, basic geometry, area and perimeter, data interpretation.
Class 5 is where many students first encounter the full 4-section pattern with a meaningful Achievers Section.
Downloading the SOF IMO Class 5 sample paper and attempting it in one sitting is strongly recommended before moving to concept-based practice.
⬇ Download Class 5 SOF IMO Sample Paper PDF – 2026–27
Answer key included. Solutions available on Gonit App.
SOF IMO Sample Papers – Class 6
Key topics: Integers, fractions, decimals, basic algebra, mensuration, geometry, ratio and proportion, data handling.
Class 6 is one of the highest-demand classes for SOF IMO sample papers and for good reason.
The jump from Class 5 to Class 6 content is significant, and the Achievers Section becomes noticeably harder.
⬇ Download Class 6 SOF IMO Sample Paper PDF – 2026–27
Answer key included. Step-by-step solutions available on Gonit App.
SOF IMO Sample Papers – Class 7
Key topics: Integers, fractions and decimals, simple equations, lines and angles, triangles, congruence, data handling, rational numbers.
Class 7 papers have a strong focus on geometry and algebra.
Students often underestimate the logical reasoning section practising the full SOF IMO Class 7 sample paper helps calibrate time allocation across sections.
⬇ Download Class 7 SOF IMO Sample Paper PDF – 2026–27
Answer key included. Solutions available on Gonit App.
SOF IMO Sample Papers – Class 8
Key topics: Linear equations, quadrilaterals, squares and square roots, cubes, algebraic expressions, mensuration, data handling, probability.
Class 8 is another high-demand class for sample papers and the Achievers Section at this level is genuinely challenging.
Students who want to compete for top ranks should attempt at least 3–4 full papers before exam day.
⬇ Download Class 8 SOF IMO Sample Paper PDF – 2026–27
Answer key included. Step-by-step solutions for all sections available on Gonit App — including Achievers Section explanations.
SOF IMO Sample Papers – Class 9
Key topics: Polynomials, coordinate geometry, lines and angles, triangles, quadrilaterals, circles, surface areas, statistics, probability.
Class 9 papers draw heavily from the standard NCERT Class 9 syllabus but push problem complexity higher.
The SOF IMO Class 9 sample paper with solutions is especially useful for students who want to understand where their conceptual gaps are.
⬇ Download Class 9 SOF IMO Sample Paper PDF – 2026–27
Answer key included. SOF class 9 IMO sample paper solutions available on Gonit App.
SOF IMO Sample Papers – Class 10
Key topics: Real numbers, polynomials, pair of linear equations, quadratic equations, arithmetic progressions, circles, trigonometry, statistics, probability.
Class 10 students are often balancing board exam prep alongside Olympiad preparation.
The SOF IMO Class 10 sample paper is designed to complement not conflict with standard board preparation.
Most topics overlap significantly with the Class 10 NCERT syllabus.
⬇ Download Class 10 SOF IMO Sample Paper PDF – 2026–27
Answer key included. Full solutions available on Gonit App.
SOF IMO Sample Papers – Class 11
Key topics: Sets, relations and functions, trigonometric functions, complex numbers, quadratic equations, permutations and combinations, binomial theorem, sequences and series, straight lines, conic sections, limits and derivatives, statistics, probability.
Class 11 marks a significant jump in mathematical complexity; the shift from Class 10 algebra to calculus-adjacent topics and combinatorics catches many students off guard.
The SOF IMO Class 11 sample paper helps bridge that gap, giving students a clear sense of question depth and the reasoning style expected at this level before they sit the actual exam.
⬇ Download Class 11 SOF IMO Sample Paper PDF – 2026–27
Answer key included. Full solutions available on Gonit App.
SOF IMO Sample Papers – Class 12
Key topics: Relations and functions, inverse trigonometric functions, matrices and determinants, continuity and differentiability, applications of derivatives, integrals, differential equations, vector algebra, three-dimensional geometry, linear programming, probability.
Class 12 students are navigating one of the most demanding academic years: board exams, entrance prep, and Olympiad competition all at once.
The SOF IMO Class 12 sample paper is built around the same core syllabus, so practice here reinforces board and entrance exam readiness rather than pulling focus away from it.
The Achievers Section at this level demands strong conceptual clarity, particularly in calculus and probability.
⬇ Download Class 12 SOF IMO Sample Paper PDF – 2026–27
Answer key included. Full solutions available on Gonit App.
How to Use SOF IMO Sample Papers Effectively
Downloading a sample paper and skimming through it doesn’t build exam readiness. Here’s how to actually use these papers to improve your score:
Step 1: Download the sample paper for your class. Use the class-specific links above.
Make sure it’s the right level (Level 1 or Level 2) and the most recent session available.
Step 2: Set a timer matching the actual exam duration. SOF IMO is typically 60 minutes.
Set the timer before you start, not after you’ve already read a few questions. Simulating real conditions is the entire point.
Step 3: Attempt the full paper without interruption. No textbook, no calculator (unless permitted), no stopping.
Treat it like exam day. This is the only way to get an honest measure of where you stand.
Step 4: Self-evaluate using the answer key. Mark every answer as correct, incorrect, or skipped.
Don’t just count the score and categorise your mistakes. That’s where the learning starts.
Step 5: Analyse mistakes topic by topic. If you got 4 geometry questions wrong, that’s a geometry gap not bad luck.
Go back to the specific concept, not just the question. Ask: did I not know the concept, or did I misread the question, or did I run out of time?
Step 6: Revisit weak topics using Gonit App’s concept-based practice modules. Targeted concept practice after identifying your weak areas is far more effective than attempting another full paper immediately.
Use Gonit App’s structured modules to rebuild understanding before your next full test.
Step 7: Repeat with at least 3–4 papers before exam day. Your score should improve across attempts if it doesn’t, the issue is concept clarity, not practice volume. Address that first.
💡 Pro Tip: Pay special attention to Achievers Section questions. You don’t need to get all five right, solving even 2–3 of them correctly can significantly improve your rank, because most students skip them entirely.
SOF IMO Syllabus Overview – Class-Wise Summary
The IMO syllabus is closely aligned with the standard school curriculum, with additional emphasis on logical reasoning and higher-order problem-solving.
Here’s a quick class-wise breakdown:
| Class | Key Topics |
| 1–2 | Patterns, shapes, basic counting, simple addition and subtraction |
| 3–4 | Multiplication, fractions, geometry basics, data handling |
| 5–6 | Decimals, ratios, basic algebra, mensuration |
| 7–8 | Algebra, geometry, statistics, number systems |
| 9–12 | Polynomials, coordinate geometry, trigonometry, probability |
This is a summary not the complete syllabus. For the full topic-by-topic breakdown for your class, see the link below.
If you want to explore the Full IMO Syllabus Class-Wise check it out here.
SOF IMO Preparation Tips to Score Higher
Good preparation isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing the right things in the right order.
- Start with your standard curriculum. IMO builds directly on school math. Students who are solid on NCERT/standard textbook content have a significant head start.
- Use sample papers to benchmark, not just practice. Your first paper attempt tells you where you are. Every subsequent attempt should show measurable improvement in a specific area.
- Prioritise the Achievers Section. Most students either skip it or guess. If you can reliably solve 2–3 Achievers questions in your class, you’ll outrank a large chunk of the field.
- Build mental math speed. The 60-minute clock is unforgiving. Gonit App’s timed drills are built specifically for this short, focused, and calibrated Olympiad-style problems.
- Track your progress. Attempt → evaluate → identify gaps → targeted practice → re-attempt. This loop, repeated 3–4 times before the exam, is more effective than any shortcut.
- Join a mock test series. Full-length mock tests under timed conditions are the closest you can get to real exam experience without actually being in the exam.
Gonit App’s structured Olympiad practice path is built for exactly this preparation sequence. Start Practising Free on Gonit App →
If you want a complete preparation guide for SOF IMO 2026–27, explore the IMO Preparation Guide
What is SOF IMO?
The Science Olympiad Foundation International Mathematics Olympiad (SOF IMO) is a national-level math competition for school students in Classes 1–10. Conducted annually by the Science Olympiad Foundation, it tests students on mathematical reasoning, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills across two competitive levels.
How many levels does SOF IMO have?
SOF IMO has two levels. Level 1 is open to all registered students and is conducted in school. Level 2 is for top performers from Level 1, available from Class 3 onwards. Level 2 features higher difficulty and tests advanced reasoning and mathematical ability with a significantly smaller candidate pool.
Are SOF IMO sample papers free to download?
Yes. SOF IMO sample papers for Classes 1–10 are available as free PDF downloads on Gonit App. Each paper includes an answer key, and step-by-step solutions are available for most class levels to support self-evaluation and targeted improvement after each practice attempt.
Which is the best sample paper for SOF IMO Class 8?
The best SOF IMO Class 8 sample paper matches the current exam pattern and includes the Achievers Section. Gonit App offers updated 2026–27 sample papers for Class 8 with full solutions, covering all key topics: algebra, quadrilaterals, mensuration, and data handling.
How is SOF IMO Level 2 different from Level 1?
SOF IMO Level 2 is significantly harder than Level 1. Only top-ranking students from Level 1 (typically the top 5%) qualify. Level 2 papers test deeper conceptual understanding, higher-order reasoning, and speed — making targeted preparation with Level 2-specific sample papers essential for students aiming to perform well.
Can I use 2018 or 2019 sample papers for 2026–27 preparation?
Yes — older SOF IMO papers remain highly relevant. The core syllabus and exam pattern have stayed consistent, so practising with 2018 or 2019 papers helps students understand question types, difficulty levels, and topic weightage that are still applicable in the 2026–27 session.
Where can I get SOF IMO Class 6 Level 2 sample papers?
SOF IMO Class 6 Level 2 sample papers are available on Gonit App. These papers follow the harder Level 2 pattern and are curated specifically for students who have qualified through Level 1 and need targeted practice for the advanced round of the competition.
Make Preparing for Math Olympiad Simple!
Conclusion
The students who perform best in SOF IMO aren’t always the most naturally gifted; they’re the ones who practised with real papers, identified their weak spots early, and fixed them before exam day.
That’s a repeatable process, and this page gives you everything you need to run it.
Whether you’re a student attempting your first paper, a parent supporting your child’s prep, or a teacher building a structured practice plan this is your one trusted starting point.
Download your class-specific SOF IMO sample paper PDF today and give your preparation a structured head start with Gonit App.
