World Finals is the International Competition for Odyssey of the Mind. Teams from across the U.S. and 25 other countries gather to present their solutions. Each year approximately 750-800 teams gather the end of May to celebrate their accomplishments.
Currently this annual event alternates between Iowa State and Michigan State Universities. Teams stay on campus in student housing and eat in the campus dining halls.
Activities that your team can participate in…
- Opening ceremonies are attended by all teams and include a “Parade of States/Countries” and a laser light show.
- Creativity Festival A celebration of creativity and STEAM challenges from all over the world! Teams/delegations may choose to host a booth to share an experience with others!
- Pin Trading! Pin trading at World Finals is an exciting activity enjoyed by all! There are no language barriers when you pin trade.
- Float and Banner Parade,
- Coaches Competition
- Graduation Ceremony for high school seniors.
- Teams also have the option to apply for a Buddy Team. Buddy teams spend time getting to know each other and learning about the other teams culture, attend performances and in general support and encourage each other. Often teams continue to keep in touch with their buddy team for many years.
- Closing Ceremonies/Awards are held on the final evening and World Champions are announced. Oklahoma is proud to have SIX teams named World Champions in the last five years!
- Kid, Teen, and Coaches’ parties following closing ceremonies. You do NOT want to miss these.
2027 World Finals will be held on the campus of Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan. The top two teams in each problem/division could advance to compete with some of the best teams from around the World.
Oklahoma World Finals Merchandise can be ordered here by teams attending. Coaches will place a single order for their team.
2027 World Finals
Michigan State University
East Lansing, Michigan
We are beginning to receive information about World Finals!
- World Finals begins Wednesday, May 25th and run through Saturday, May 29th.
- Location is Michigan State University, in East Lansing, MI
- There will be a Creativity Festival, Oklahoma is hoping to have a booth with an activity for all attendees. If we do, we may need your help (email us m_rongey@sbcglobal.net to get involved)
- There will be a Float and Banner Parade
- The top TWO teams in each problem/division will be invited to attend!
- There will be PIN TRADING (Everyone’s favorite World Finals activity!)
Teams can select from the official Odyssey of the Mind Housing:
Wednesday arrival is TBA
Tuesday arrival is TBA
The meals begin with dinner on the day you arrive and run through Sunday breakfast.
There is a Registration fee (TBA). However, if your team stays in official OM housing, it is included in the cost of housing.
Odyssey of the Mind World Finals is open to spectators including the Creativity Festival, Opening and Closing Ceremonies (they need to get tickets at our Information booth for Opening and Awards, but they are free.) They can even eat with their team. Dining halls accepts people who pay for a meal with cash or credit card online.
World Finals Registration should be completed within two weeks of our State Tournament. Payment is usually due the last Friday in April.
Need-based Housing Grants are available through Creative Opportunities Unlimited. There is an application process and grants are limited. Information can be found here.