The International Cybersecurity Olympiad (ICO) is a premier global competition that brings together the world’s most talented young cybersecurity professionals. ICO challenges participants in various cybersecurity domains through Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions, including both Attack-style and Defence-style formats.
Selecting and training India’s top cybersecurity talent to compete at ICO 2026 in Sydney, Australia from June 27 to July 2, 2026.
Our mission is to identify, nurture, and prepare the most capable cybersecurity students in India through a fair, transparent, and rigorous 3-round selection process. The selected team will represent our country with excellence and integrity on the global stage.
Why ICO
Cybersecurity is a growing global concern, with cyber threats evolving faster than the supply of skilled professionals. Despite the rising demand, a significant gap persists in cybersecurity education and talent development worldwide. The ICO aims to address this challenge by providing a competitive platform to identify and nurture the brightest young minds in cybersecurity. The ICO also offers a structured and prestigious environment where students can showcase their skills and gain international recognition. Led by university professors, cybersecurity practitioners, and professionals including Associate Professor Tan Sun Teck, the current President of the IOI, the ICO is designed to push the boundaries of cybersecurity education and innovation.
Provide Global Platform
Future Talent Pool
Reward and Recognition
Career Opportunites
Competition Schedule
National Round
Round 1
Date : 12th April 2026
Open to All Grade 7 to 2nd Year Under Graduate
Mode : Onlline
Round 2
Date : 19th April 2026
Eligibility : Top 10% from Round 1
Mode: Offline in Mumbai
Qualifying Round
Final Selection Round
Round 3
Date : 19th April 2026
Eligibility : Top 8 from Round 2
Mode : Interview
ICO 2026 Final Event Details
Team of 4 Students
Sydney, Australia
27th June - 2nd July 2026
Attack-style & Defence-style CTF
Global Participation
Registration Details
The ICO National Round is designed for students in grades 7 through 12 and First and Second-year undergraduates. The
course and the exam will be the same for all students.
Registation Fees: Rs .1000 (For Round 1)
Last Date for Registration : 5th April 2026
