Symposium vs Conference
What is the difference between a symposium and a conference?
A symposium is a meeting where experts discuss one specific topic, often through short talks and a shared discussion. A conference is usually larger and broader, with many sessions, speakers and tracks across a whole field.
The words overlap, and organizers use them loosely. This guide gives the common meanings, a table that compares five formats, and a way to choose.
Updated by the Eventdex team
4.7/5 from 39 reviews on each
Symposium meaning in one paragraph
The word symposium comes from a Greek word for a drinking party with discussion. Today it means a meeting on a single subject where specialists present and exchange views. Papers or talks are often collected afterward. Compare it with a conference, which covers a wider field and often runs several sessions at once.
Five formats compared
These are the usual meanings. Real events vary, so check each event's own description.
| Format | Focus | Usual style | Typical size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Symposium | One specific topic | Expert talks and discussion | Smaller to mid-size |
| Conference | A broad field or industry | Keynotes, many sessions, networking | Mid-size to large |
| Seminar | A subject taught or discussed | Led by one or a few speakers | Small to mid-size |
| Workshop | A skill or task | Hands-on practice | Small |
| Colloquium | Scholarly exchange | Academic talks and questions | Small |
How a symposium differs from a conference
Three differences are the most useful in practice.
Scope
A symposium stays on one topic. A conference spreads across a field and often has tracks.
Format
A symposium leans on expert talks and discussion. A conference adds keynotes, exhibits and social events.
Scale
Symposia are often smaller and more specialized. Conferences are often larger, though this is not a rule.
Symposium vs seminar
A seminar is built around learning. One person or a small panel leads, and the group asks questions. A symposium is built around exchange between several experts.
If the goal is to teach a topic, a seminar fits. If the goal is to bring specialists together on one question, a symposium fits.
Which format should you plan?
Match the format to the goal.
Choose a symposium
when one topic needs expert views and a published record.
Choose a conference
when you want a wide audience, many sessions and networking.
Choose a workshop
when attendees need to practice a skill.
Choose a seminar
when you want to teach or discuss a subject with a smaller group.
Planning either one
Both need a date, a venue or online platform, speakers, an agenda and a way to register attendees. A conference adds more moving parts, such as tracks and exhibitors. The conference planning checklist covers them in order.
Eventdex's pages describe registration and ticketing, an event mobile app and virtual and hybrid event management. Eventdex's pages do not describe a format specific to symposia.
The Eventdex platform
Tools for registration and onsite events
- Registration and ticketingRegistration pages with free, paid or donation-based tickets.Learn more about Registration and ticketing
- Event mobile appThe schedule and announcements in attendees' pockets.Learn more about Event mobile app
- Virtual event managementServices for running online events from start to finish.Learn more about Virtual event management
- Event technologyHow the tools around an event fit together.Learn more about Event technology
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University at Buffalo
Eversource Energy
Georgia Tech
Influence Communications
FAQ
Symposium vs Conference: common questions
What is the main difference between a symposium and a conference?
A symposium centers on one specific topic. A conference covers a broader field with many sessions.
What does symposium mean?
A meeting where experts present and discuss one subject, often with papers or talks collected afterward.
Is a symposium smaller than a conference?
Often, but not always. Scope is the better test: one topic points to a symposium, a whole field points to a conference.
How is a symposium different from a seminar?
A seminar is built around teaching or guided discussion. A symposium is built around exchange among several experts.
Can Eventdex be used for either?
Eventdex's pages describe registration, ticketing, an event app and virtual or hybrid events. Eventdex's pages do not describe a format specific to symposia.
Register attendees for your next conference or symposium
Start with a free interactive floor plan, or talk to an event specialist on +1 (866) 434-5088.