What is TOL?
The International Linguistics Olympiad (IOL) has been held in various countries since 2003, but it remained relatively unknown in Taiwan. It wasn't until 2015, when the only individual participant from Taiwan won a bronze medal and an award for the best solution, that more people began to take notice.
According to the regulations of the International Linguistics Olympiad (IOL), participating countries recognized by the IOL must hold a national competition to select their national team members. As a result, the Taiwan Olympiad in Linguistics (TOL) was established in 2016.
The Taiwan Olympiad in Linguistics (TOL) is a language puzzle-solving competition for high school students. The competition problems can be solved using only logical reasoning, patience, and a willingness to think continuously. No prior knowledge of linguistics or proficiency in a second language is required.
How to Participate in TOL?
TOL Eligibility
To take part in TOL, you must:
- Be enrolled in government-approved high schools, overseas Chinese schools, and Taiwanese business schools.
- Be under 20 years old during the IOL competition and must not be a current or former university student
TOL Competition Format
Paper-based exam with questions in Traditional Chinese and English translation. Participants are allowed to submit solutions in either Chinese or English.
TOL Selection Process
Held once a year, including a Preliminary Round, a Semi-final Round, and a Final Round (APLO). Top performers in the TOL Selection Preliminary Round or students nominated by their senior high schools are eligible for Stage I Training Program and a chance to compete for a spot on the national team in the following rounds.
TOL Registration Information
Announced around the end of each year.
Preliminary Round Guidelines for the 2026 Taiwan Team of the International Linguistics Olympiad (IOL)School Nomination Guidelines for the 2026 Taiwan Team of the International Linguistics Olympiad (IOL)Homeschooler Nomination Guidelines for the 2026 Taiwan Team of the International Linguistics Olympiad (IOL)Visit the TOL preliminary registration system