Gradient Contest 2026: The Ultimate Algo & AI Challenge Launched by Prologin and Mistral AI

Date
23 Jun 2026
Open link

Are you a Bachelor (L3) or Master's student, or a recent graduate? Do you spend your evenings fine-tuning algorithms, and does the world of artificial intelligence excite you? Look no further: the Gradient Contest is made for you.

Organized by the well-known association Prologin (famous for its historic national computer science competition) in partnership with the French AI giant Mistral AI, this free competition is a massive springboard for your future tech career.

The Concept: 3 Steps to Reach the Top

Forget theoretical and boring exams. Gradient is a competition inspired by the world's biggest programming tournaments, built around pure code, optimization, and strategy.

  1. Regional Qualifiers (June 20 to July 12, 2026): On-site, computer-based tests held across several regional centers in France (Paris, Lyon, Rennes, Grenoble, Toulouse, Strasbourg, Alès, Bordeaux...) hosted at EPITA campuses and top engineering schools. On the agenda: a half-day of intense algorithmic challenges.

  2. Finalist Selection (Mid-July 2026): The top 100 candidates from all over France will secure their ticket to the ultimate stage.

  3. The Grand Finale (Late August 2026 • Paris): A legendary 36-hour non-stop hackathon. Your mission? Develop an AI capable of competing in real-time on a custom video game created from scratch by the Prologin team. Intense atmosphere, pizzas, and caffeine guaranteed!

Why You Absolutely Need to Join

Beyond the pure joy of coding and measuring your skills against the sharpest minds, Gradient offers exceptional rewards:

  • The "Gold" Interview Ticket: The top 30 contestants in the general ranking will get guaranteed job/internship interviews at Mistral AI, one of the global leaders in generative AI.

  • Cash Prizes: The top three winners will walk away with direct cash rewards.

  • A Massive Resume Boost: Reaching the finals or performing well at a Prologin x Mistral event is a gold star on your CV that captures the attention of elite tech recruiters.

  • Real-World Networking: The finals feature dedicated networking slots with partner companies, making it the perfect place to land a high-profile internship or your first job.

Quick Facts: Registration is 100% free and takes only a few minutes.

If you have the logic required to master the selection algorithms and build the most ruthless AI for the finals, don't let this opportunity pass you by.

👉 Register now and find a qualifier center near you: gradient.prologin.org