US Geography Championships (iGeo Team USA qualifier)

Competition · International Academic Competitions (IAC)

Varsity-division students take the US Geography Championships at an official regional site or online, covering a written response test, a multimedia test, and fieldwork skills. Entry starts with a $20 qualifying exam ($54 for the in-person regional tournament); the top scorers advance to the National Competition, and the top four Varsity finishers earn a spot on Team USA at the International Geography Olympiad (iGeo), held in Jelgava, Latvia in summer 2027. IAC subsidizes part of the cost for Team USA members; families typically still cover roughly $1,000-$1,400 toward travel and fees.

Who can apply

GradesGrades 9–12

Min GPA—

ScopeNational

StatesAll states

FieldsGeography

Logistics

Cost to you$20-$54 entry; Team USA travel ~$1,000-$1,400

Financial aidAvailable

StipendNot listed

FormatVaries

WhereNationals in Arlington, VA (Apr 2027); iGeo 2027 in Jelgava, Latvia

AwardsTop 4 Varsity finishers qualify for Team USA; about half of iGeo competitors win gold, silver, or bronze medals

Applying

OpensQualifying exams available now

DueNationals registration due April 16, 2027 (in-person event in Arlington, VA)

You submitTake the US Geography Championships qualifying exam ($20) at an official regional site or online; results determine advancement to Nationals and Team USA

Visit official site ↗