Blackbox Cup

A programming contest where curiosity leads the way.

Explore unknown systems, uncover hidden logic, and solve unusual puzzles!

March 15, 2026

09:00–14:00 UTC

What is the Blackbox Cup?

Imagine joining a project with no documentation and no backlog. Your mission: figure out the system and start solving problems.

Programming puzzle

The Blackbox Cup is for curious minds who love logic challenges and system-level thinking. It’s not about speed – it’s about understanding.

Break the mold

No typical algorithm marathons here. Instead, you’ll explore unfamiliar territory and solve problems the way real developers do.

Uncover the unknown

Dive into a mysterious system with zero docs or guidance. Discover the rules, the quirks, and hidden logic.

Solve your way

From warm-ups to tricky brain teasers, tackle tasks at your own pace. Think, test, break things, and try again.

Tools are welcome

Search the web, use AI assistants – just like in the real world. Resourcefulness is part of the challenge.

Registration is open until March 13, 2026

Why join?

Real-world problems

The Blackbox Cup simulates real dev life – no docs, no hand-holding. Are you ready to take on the challenge?

Real-world skills

Practice what actually matters in the industry: reverse-engineering, creative problem-solving, and learning through trial and error.

Global competition

Go head-to-head with curious, inventive students from schools across the globe.

Scholarships

The JetBrains Foundation offers full scholarships for bachelor’s programs in computer science and related fields at Constructor University Bremen (Germany) and Neapolis University Pafos (Cyprus).

Blackbox Cup winners gain extra advantages in the selection process.

Timeline

Choose your league

Junior: Ages 16–19, currently in secondary education.

Senior: 19+, graduated from secondary education.

Register before March 13, 2026

Fill out the form below, and then follow the instructions in your email.

Join the Discord server

Join to get updates and meet your peers and coaches. You will find the invite link in your email – please don't share it with others.

Participate in the trial round

The trial round, held March 1–14, is your chance to get familiar with the platform and its rules.

Join the live session

Join to discuss trial round solutions and ask your questions on March 10, 4:00 pm UTC. A recording will be available on the Discord server.

Get stoked for the Blackbox Cup day

Join the Blackbox Cup on March 15, 2026, at 9:00 am – 14:00 pm UTC.

Bachelor degrees with full scholarship from the JetBrains Foundation

Software, Data and Technology BSc

Constructor University Bremen (Germany)

This bachelor's program in computer science combines the latest in software development, data analysis, and machine learning.

The standard selection process consists of a scholarship competition and an interview

Blackbox Cup winners skip the first stage and go straight to the interview, boosting their chances of earning a full scholarship.

Learn more about SDT BSc

Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence BSc

Neapolis University Pafos (Cyprus)

This undergraduate program focuses on data science, machine learning, robotics, software engineering, and theoretical computer science.

The standard selection process consists of an entrance test and an interview.

Blackbox Cup winners will earn extra credit toward their entrance test, increasing their chances of being invited for an interview.

Learn more about CSAI BSc

Questions?

Got ideas or just want to say hello? Contact us at blackboxcup@jetbrains.com – we’d love to hear from you.