CAIO National Qualifier
CAIO National Qualifier consists of two rounds designed to evaluate both theoretical understanding and practical skills in AI.
Round 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
Round 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: Students are required to bring their own laptops for the in-person exam. Limited internet access will be provided during the test. The use of AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT or similar) is strictly prohibited.
- Programming Language: Python
- Total Score: 50
- 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
The National Training Camp will take place in the second week of January 2026. This invite-only program includes three days of intensive training, featuring lectures delivered by university professors in artificial intelligence and experts from leading technology companies. The training is followed by a two-day Canadian National Team Selection Competition, where the top four contestants will be chosen to represent Canada at IAIO 2026 in Slovenia.
The competition format will be similar to the official IAIO structure, but it will include more challenging problems to push participants further. Each round will last for 5 hours.
The camp also includes expert-led lectures, hands-on exercises, and collaborative team activities that strengthen both technical skills and problem-solving ability.
2025 CAIO National Qualifier Official Problems
1:00pm – 4:30pm, November 23, 2025
Round 1: AI Fundamentals Challenge
Official Problem Set Download: 2025_CAIO_National_Qualifier_Round1.pdf
CAIO National Qualifier Practical Tests
AI Fundamentals Challenge
* Note: Test 1 is harder than the real competition; Test 2 matches the actual difficulty level.
* If you received about 35% on Test 1 or Test 2, you are in a competitive position.
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.