CAIO National Qualifier
CAIO National Qualifier consists of two rounds designed to evaluate both theoretical understanding and practical skills in AI.
Part 1: AI Fundamentals Challenge
Participants will solve a series of math, algorithmic and coding problems related to core AI concepts. Questions may involve mathematical reasoning, equations, and intuitive understanding of algorithms and machine learning principles.
- Format: 25 multiple-choice questions (2 marks each) and 10 fill-in-the-blank questions (5 marks each)
- Programming Language: Python
- Total Score: 100
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Focus: Mathematical logic, basic coding, algorithmic thinking, and AI foundations
Part 2: Applied Problem Solving
In this round, participants will tackle a practical problem using Google Colab. The problem includes a dataset, and participants are expected to preprocess the data, apply suitable machine learning algorithms, and submit both the trained model and their code.
- Format: One practical problem (computer based)
- Note: This is an online exam. Students should use their own computers and ensure a stable internet connection during the test. Only approved webpages may be accessed during the competition. Detailed instructions will be released one week before the exam. The use of AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT or similar) is strictly prohibited.
- Programming Language: Python
- Total Score: 100
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Evaluation Criteria: Model performance (e.g., recision, recall, f1 score, roc & auc, etc.), and code quality (e.g., clarity, structure).
This round assesses participants’ ability to apply AI knowledge in real-world scenarios and produce functional solutions.
CAIO National Training Camp
1. The invite-only National Training Camp will begin with online training sessions in December 2026, with approximately two hours of training per day. This will be followed by in-person training from January 4 - 10, 2027, with approximately six hours of training each day. The program will feature lectures and training sessions led by university professors specializing in artificial intelligence, as well as experts from leading technology companies.
2. To ensure a fair and rigorous selection process, the training will be followed by a two-round Canadian National Team Selection Competition. Each round will consist of two parts conducted over two days. The average score across the two rounds will determine each contestant’s final ranking. The top four contestants will be selected to represent Canada at IAIO 2027 in Vietnam.
3. This year, the National Training Camp will expand to 35 contestants. Participants will include the top 30 contestants from the 2026 CAIO National Qualifier, the top four contestants from the 2026 CJAIO National Training Camp, and gold medalists from the 2026 IAI²O AIIC Track Final.
4. The National Team Selection Competition will follow a format similar to the official IAIO competition, while incorporating more challenging problems to further develop and assess participants’ abilities. Each part of the competition will last five hours.
2025 CAIO National Qualifier Official Problems
Competition Date: 1:30 - 4:30 PM, November 23, 2025
Part 1: AI Fundamentals Challenge
Official Problem Set Download: 2025_CAIO_National_Qualifier_Round1.pdf
CAIO National Qualifier Practical Tests
Applied Problem Solving
In this round, participants will apply their machine learning skills to build a model to solve a practial problem. Using real-world data containing features, participants must preprocess the dataset, train and tune a predictive model, and submit their final results in the specified format. Accuracy on a hidden test dataset will be used for evaluation.