Singapore Physics Olympiad Pathway: SJPO, SPhO, APhO and IPhO
Study guideUpdated 26 Aug 2026
Reviewed by
Marcus Pang·Managing Director (Maths)
A source-checked map of Singapore physics competitions, showing what is confirmed, what is a common progression, and what must be checked each cycle.
Q: Is SJPO to SPhO to APhO to IPhO a fixed qualification ladder? A: It is a useful way to understand increasing levels of physics competition, but it is not a published automatic promotion ladder. SJPO and SPhO use school entry. APhO and IPhO use national selection, whose current-cycle details should be confirmed through official or school channels.
The accurate way to read the pathway
| Competition | Role | Public entry fact | What is not automatic |
| SJPO | Junior national physics competition | The 2026 cycle used school registration | An SJPO result does not publicly guarantee SPhO entry |
| SPhO | Senior national physics competition | IPS says invited schools participate and individuals cannot apply | A medal does not publicly guarantee an international place |
| APhO | Asian international olympiad | Countries send selected delegations | The exact Singapore selection route may change by cycle |