The Most Exciting Abacus Event!
IAC2026
August 1 - 2
Portland, OR
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About IAC
Have you ever imagined competing for global recognition while making friends from around the world? The International Abacus Classic (IAC) is your gateway to an unforgettable adventure—an annual international event hosted in different locations, bringing together students who share a passion for the abacus and a love of learning.
More than a contest of speed and accuracy, the IAC is a celebration of education and international friendship. With a tradition spanning over 30 years, it connects young minds through the universal language of numbers. You’ll experience friendly competition, mutual learning, and a welcoming community—plus new perspectives and memories that last long after the awards.
Are you ready to connect with peers from across the globe, showcase your talents, and create experiences that will last a lifetime? Join us at the International Abacus Classic 2026 in Portland, Oregon! This is your chance to forge new friendships, enjoy exciting activities, and be part of a growing international community. Bridging the World Through Soroban—register today and be part of the journey.
Date & Time
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Contest Day1: Saturday, August 1, 2026 12:15pm - 4:00pm
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Contest Day2: Sunday, August 2, 2026 7:45am - 1:00pm
(Optional) Day Trip: Monday, August 3
Location
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Portland
1000 NE Multnomah Street,
Portland, OR
97232 USA
Groups
Student’s school grade as of April 2026
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Shining Beads (Beginner students)
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A: Kindergarten – 2nd Grade
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B: 3rd – 4th Grade
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C: 5th – 6th Grade
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D: 7th – 9th Grade
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E: 10th – 12th Grade
Subjects
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Written problems: Comprehensive (Multiplication,Division, Addition/Subtraction), 3 minutes for each subject
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English Oral Abacus Dictation
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English Oral Anzan (Mental Calculation) Dictation
* For the competition contents, please see here
Fees
Contest Entry — Aug 1& Aug 2 Two-day attendance required
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US$150
Optional Meals & Tours — Not included in contest entry
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Aug. 1 (Sat) Student Lunch:
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US$25 per student
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Aug. 1 (Sat) Welcome Dinner:
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US$45 per person (Parents/Families welcome)
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Aug. 2 (Sun) After-Contest Woodburn Outlets Shopping:
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US$65 per person (Round-trip bus; no sales tax in Oregon)
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Aug. 3 (Mon) Day Trip — Nike HQ Tour + Lunch + Cannon Beach:
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US$115 per person (Round-trip bus)
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Entry Notes
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Contest entry is for student participants
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Spectators are free
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Required to attend both days (no one-day option)
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Meals are not included
Schedule
Day 1
Saturday, August 1
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11:30 am – 12:15 pm Optional Lunch — For pre-registered guests only
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12:15 pm Student Check-in Opens
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1:00 pm Opening Ceremony
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1:20 pm Competition — Comprehensive Questions
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2:00 pm Team Activities — Crafts, Team Competition, and
Trivia Quiz -
3:00 pm Graduating Senior Awards Ceremony
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3:30 pm Team Awards and Teacher Recognition
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4:00 pm Group Photo and Dismissal
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5:30 – 7:00 pm Optional Welcome Dinner — For pre-registered guests only
Day 2
Sunday, August 2
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7:45 am Student Check-in Opens
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8:15 am Competition — Oral Abacus/Anzan Dictation Preliminary Round
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9:20 am Finals and Tiebreakers
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11:30 am Awards Ceremony
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1:00 pm Dismissal
Day 3
(Optional) Monday, August 3
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9:00 am - 4:00pm (Optional) Nike HQ Tour + Lunch + Cannon Beach
Event Sponsors
Explore the Host City
Portland, Oregon
For many participants and families, this may be their first visit to Portland. To help you plan your stay, we’ve included helpful information on transportation, sightseeing, and dining—so families can enjoy the city while students are competing.
For more detailed travel and sightseeing information, please visit Travel Portland, the official destination marketing organization for the city of Portland. Travel Portland provides comprehensive and up-to-date resources to help you plan your visit.
Getting Here
Everything you need to know about arriving in Portland by plane or train.
Getting Around
Learn how easy it is to travel by light rail, streetcar, bus, bike, on foot, or by car.
Maps
Find city and regional maps, including specialized transportation maps.
Dining in Portland
From food carts and farmers’ markets to award-winning restaurants, Portland offers a diverse and vibrant food scene.
Attractions
Explore Portland’s top attractions, including cultural sites, events, and new experiences enjoyed by both locals and visitors.
FAQ
Q: How do I register for the competition?
A: Please complete your registration and pay the fee online. Please note that optional add-ons are space-limited and may be available depending on participation.
Q: How many participants will there be?
A: There will be approximately 80 to 100 participants, including those from North America and other countries.
Q: What countries are the participants from?
A: In previous competitions, participants came from Japan, the United States, Canada, Brazil, England, and China. Even more countries may join in 2025.
Q: What countries are the participants from?
A: Soroban League North America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. On the registration page, you may add an optional donation at checkout; donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law, but contest entry fees and add-ons are not.
Q: Can my company support SLNA (corporate donations / matching gifts)?
A: Yes. Soroban League North America is registered with Benevity, so you may be able to donate or request a matching gift through your employer’s giving portal. For corporate sponsorship inquiries, please contact sorobanleaguenorthamerica@gmail.com
Q: Do you accept in-kind (non-cash) donations?
A: Yes. We welcome in-kind donations (goods or items) to support our programs and events.
Please email sorobanleaguenorthamerica@gmail.com to discuss current needs and donation details.
