University of Zagreb Students Secure Top ICPC CERC Rankings

Excellence in competitive programming requires more than just theoretical knowledge; it demands rigorous practice, strategic problem-solving, and the ability to perform under pressure. The recent results from the Central European Regional Contest (CERC) of the International Collegiate Programming Contest (ICPC) serve as a testament to the high caliber of computer science students emerging from top European institutions. For aspiring computer scientists and engineering students, understanding the landscape of these competitions is crucial for identifying academic environments that foster such technical prowess.

The ICPC is widely regarded as the most prestigious university-level programming competition in the world. The regional contests, such as CERC, are fiercely competitive, often serving as the primary gateway to the World Finals. Success in these events is a strong indicator of a university’s commitment to developing practical coding skills and algorithmic thinking among its students.

Outstanding Performance at the Central European Regional Contest

In early December 2025, the University of Wrocław hosted the CERC, bringing together 70 teams from 31 universities across eight countries. The competition was a showcase of intellectual talent, with teams tackling complex problems within a tight time frame. The University of Zagreb’s delegation delivered a remarkable performance, underscoring the institution’s strength in computing education.

The standout team, ZAGREB 1, secured a gold medal and an impressive 4th place finish. This achievement guaranteed their qualification for the European ICPC student competition, a significant milestone in their academic careers. The team consisted of Fran Babić (PMF–MO), Toni Brajko (FER, 3rd year of undergraduate studies), and Ivan Janjić (PMF–MO), with Krešimir Malnar serving as their coach. Their success highlights a collaborative spirit between different faculties, combining expertise from the Faculty of Science (PMF) and the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing (FER).

Further solidifying the University of Zagreb’s reputation, the ZAGREB 2 team also delivered a strong performance, placing 16th in a highly competitive field. This team was composed of Jakov Celin and Luka Duplančić from PMF, and Fran Škarica, a first-year student at FER. The presence of a first-year student on a team achieving such a high rank demonstrates the exceptional talent pool and the early development of problem-solving skills at the university.

The Significance of ICPC for Computer Science Students

Participation in the ICPC offers immense benefits for students pursuing careers in software engineering and technology. The competition is designed to mirror real-world challenges, requiring teams to develop efficient algorithms and robust software solutions under pressure. This experience is invaluable for students, helping them to:

• Hone Algorithmic Skills: The competition forces participants to think critically about efficiency and complexity, skills that are directly applicable in technical interviews and high-performance computing roles.
• Enhance Teamwork: As a team-based event, ICPC requires seamless collaboration, effective communication, and the ability to divide tasks efficiently.
• Build a Strong Portfolio: High placement in ICPC is a prestigious accomplishment that stands out on a resume, attracting attention from top tech companies and graduate programs.

The global scale of the ICPC, with over 75,000 students from 3,450 universities participating, means that qualifying for the World Finals is an elite achievement. The University of Zagreb has a proud history in this regard, having qualified for the World Finals on nine previous occasions.

A Legacy of Programming Excellence at the University of Zagreb

The recent success at CERC is not an isolated event but rather a continuation of a long-standing tradition of excellence in computer science at the University of Zagreb. Croatian students have been competing in the ICPC since 1996, organized by the Croatian Informatics Federation. This sustained effort is supported by public funds for technical culture, with backing from the Croatian Community of Technical Culture and the Ministry of Science, Education, and Youth.

This consistent performance is a direct reflection of the quality of education and the vibrant academic ecosystem at FER. The faculty offers a range of programs designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Prospective students interested in joining a community that values and nurtures competitive programming talent should explore the computing programs available.

The Role of Faculty Support and Resources

Success in competitions like ICPC is heavily dependent on the support structure provided by the university. The guidance of coaches like Krešimir Malnar is instrumental in preparing teams for the rigors of the contest. Furthermore, access to resources such as dedicated practice sessions, a community of like-minded peers, and a curriculum that emphasizes problem-solving are critical components of a successful program.

For students at FER, the environment is one that encourages participation in such challenges. The faculty’s commitment to excellence is evident in its research output, state-of-the-art laboratories, and a curriculum that stays current with industry trends. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are not only academically proficient but also competitive on the global stage.

Looking Ahead: The Path to the European Finals

With their qualification secured, the ZAGREB 1 team now sets its sights on the European ICPC competition. This next stage will bring together the best teams from across the continent, presenting an even greater challenge. The experience gained at CERC will be invaluable as they prepare for this event.

The performance of all Croatian teams at CERC 2025 is a source of national pride and a strong signal to international students considering studying computer science in the region. The combination of a rigorous academic curriculum, a supportive community, and a culture of competitive achievement makes the University of Zagreb an attractive destination for aspiring engineers and computer scientists.