Состязательная компетентность участников языковых олимпиад: структура, лонгитюдная динамика и предикторы успеха

This study aims to identify the structure and change dynamics of contest competence among language Olympiad participants. A four-component model of contest competence is proposed, including regulatory, operational, personal, and creative components. The empirical part is based on a three-year longitudinal panel study (N = 322, sample retention 82%) of students from well-resourced schools in Moscow and major regional centers participating in English language Olympiads. Results show statistically significant growth in all components of contest competence (Cohen’s d = 1.15–2.42), with the greatest dynamics in the operational component. Logistic regressions demonstrate that components of contest competence significantly predict advancement to regional and final stages of All-Russian Olympiad and receiving diplomas from listed Olympiads (Odds Ratios = 1.42–2.83), with the regulatory component being critical for All-Russian Olympiad and the creative component for other listed competitions. The study contributes to understanding Olympiads as a space for developing specific competence with transferable value beyond the Olympiad context.