FAQ
What is the Imagine Cup?
The world’s premier student technology competition, Imagine Cup is one way Microsoft is encouraging young people to apply their imagination, their passion, and their creativity to bring to life technology innovations that can make a difference in the world – today. Now in its ninth year, the Imagine Cup has grown to be a global event. In 2010 the Imagine cup has grown to more than 358,000 registered students from over 183 countries.
What are the different challenges of Imagine Cup?
There are 5 categories, out of which only Software Design is executed on regional bases. Visit www.imaginecup.com for additional information.
Where and when will the Imagine Cup 2011 Worldwide Finals be held?
The 2011 Worldwide Finals will be held in Australia in summer 2012.
How does Microsoft choose the location of the Worldwide Finals and choose possible host cities each year?
The location of the Imagine Cup has rotated from year to year. The finals have been held in locations all across the world, including Spain (2003), Brazil (2004), Japan (2005), India (2006), Korea (2007), France (2008), Egypt (2009), Poland (2010) and USA (2011). The Imagine Cup 2012 will be held in Australia. A selection committee representing Microsoft and competition captains evaluate applications from countries interested in hosting. Many factors are taken into consideration, including the resources available at the hosting country. However, the selection process is not an exact science.
How are the judges chosen and where do they come from?
Judges are invited to participate from a mix of industry partners, sponsors and academic institutions from around the world.
Do I have to be a student to take part in the Imagine Cup?
Yes, the Imagine Cup is open to students aged 18 years of age above who are studying at any university. This includes students studying for their Master degrees and PhDs. In addition, the team may involve students from different universities.
If I do not attend a four-year university, can I participate in the Competition?
Any student attending an accredited high school or college either full or part-time can participate.
How can the Imagine Cup help me with university or careers?
The Imagine Cup is not only a great opportunity to show off your technology skills against your peers but is also a really good way to learn more about Microsoft technologies. It will help you apply your talent to an extra-curricular program and ultimately a real world problem. All these things help improve your immediate and long term prospects, set up valuable contacts with IT industry players whilst building your CV!
What is the Imagine Cup – Armenia?
This year, for the fifth time, Imagine Cup Software Design will be executed on regional bases in Armenia. The competition challenges talented teams of the country to develop inventive projects, by developing innovative software applications.
What are the prizes of Imagine Cup – Armenia?
The top 3 winning teams of the competition will be rewarded with cash prizes and the first place entry will advance to the worldwide final in Sydney, Australia, in summer 2012. Competitors who advance to the Worldwide Final will also receive all travel and accommodation to take participation in the Final.
How can I participate in the Imagine Cup Armenia competition?
For participation you have to familiarize with Competition conditions, fill in the Software Design (SD) Application form and send it to apply@imaginecup.am or submit to Microsoft Armenia office by 105/1, Terian Str., CITADEL Business Center, Yerevan, Armenia address.
Can I enter the Imagine Cup Armenia competition on my own?
No, the Software Design Challenge is designed for teams of 2 to 4 individuals. The team does not have to be made up of pure technical students and can include business, art or other disciplines who can add value to the entry with their own ideas and expertise.
Do all my team members have to be from the same university?
No, they can be from different educational establishments.
Do you have to have a Faculty mentor?
No, it is not mandatory.