Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

Q: Is there a registration fee? A: No, IUPO is completely free to participate in. We’ve removed all financial barriers to ensure global accessibility.

Q: Can I participate as part of a team? A: No, IUPO is designed as an individual competition to ensure fair assessment and broad accessibility.

Q: Do I need prior urban planning experience? A: No prior experience is required. The competition tests analytical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills that any motivated high school student can develop.

Competition Format

Q: How long is the competition? A: The competition is 4 hours total, with recommended completion in 3 hours plus a 1-hour buffer.

Q: Can I take breaks during the competition? A: No breaks are permitted once the competition begins. Plan accordingly for the full 4-hour period.

Q: What happens if I have technical difficulties? A: Technical support is available throughout the competition period. Contact support immediately if issues arise.

Scoring & Results

Q: When will I receive my results? A: Results are released within 2 weeks of the competition, with digital certificates following within 3 weeks.

Q: How are ties handled? A: Ties are broken first by Final Challenge score, then by combined Sections A+B scores. If still tied, co-recognition is awarded.

Q: Can I appeal my score? A: Yes, appeals for scoring errors or technical issues can be submitted within 48 hours of results publication.