The competition can accommodate up to 100 participants, with registration open until November 27. According to organizers, half the spots are already filled.

The innovative competition format consists of three rounds. In the preliminary round, participants navigate a maze designed by IT students, answering AI and programming-related questions hidden behind QR codes. The main round features more complex "Capture the Flag" format challenges requiring logical thinking and knowledge of mathematics, AI, and programming. In the presentation round, top competitors get the opportunity to present their solutions to a professional judging panel, which determines the final rankings.

"This competition is a unique opportunity for young people who want to challenge themselves," said Ago Luberg, Program Director of TalTech's Informatics curriculum. "The six best performers in this second-year competition will receive special admission to study at TalTech's School of Information Technologies in their chosen program." He added that up to 100 students can participate through registration, and if spots remain available, it's also possible to show up on Saturday and join the competition.

All students aged 16 and above may participate, provided they bring their own laptop, smartphone, and charger.

Competition coordinator and informatics student Kelli Pikka explained that the first round features 11 points throughout the maze where QR codes reveal multiple-choice questions. Competitors have up to 20 minutes to complete the maze, after which the 20 highest-scoring participants advance to the main round. Pikka added that detailed competition procedures and rules are available on the Robotex website and TalTech's homepage.

Last year, young men from Tallinn Central Russian Gymnasium, Tallinn Secondary Science School, and Tallinn 21st School received special admission to the School of Information Technologies after achieving top results in AI, logic, and programming challenges. View last year's competition photo gallery here.

Tallinn University of Technology invites everyone to Robotex on Friday and Saturday (Dec 5-6). At the university's booth, visitors can check out the student formula car, build their own flashlight, or learn solar panel installation tips. There's also an opportunity to ask questions and get answers about TalTech's admission requirements and study opportunities.

Robotex is one of the largest international robotics competitions, which began in 2001 in a Tallinn University of Technology classroom. Over the years, competitions have been held in various categories including line following, maze solving, volleyball, rope climbing, room cleaning, football, water rally, rally cross, and sea rescue. The competition has attracted participation from high schools, universities, companies, and teams from abroad, making it an international and diverse event.