If you’re aiming for a future in math, data science, or quantitative fields like physics, economics, or computer science, admissions officers will expect to see more than perfect grades in AP Calculus. They want evidence that you can think deeply, solve creatively, and compete at a high level. These national and international math competitions and programs can set you apart with prestigious recognition and problem-solving credentials.

Our Curated List of Math Opportunities

American Mathematics Competitions (AMC 10/12)

Organizer: Mathematical Association of America (MAA)

• 2025–26 Dates: AMC 10/12 A – November 5, 2025; AMC 10/12 B – November 11, 2025
• About: Entry-level qualifier for top U.S. contests like AIME and USAMO; problem-solving beyond standard curriculum.
• Why It Matters: Strong AMC/AIME scores are widely recognized by STEM-focused colleges.

‍American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME)

• Organizer: MAA
• 2026 Date: February 2026 (by invitation from AMC performance)
• About: 15-question, 3-hour proof-lite exam; a stepping stone to USAMO.
• Why It Matters: AIME qualification is a significant distinction in STEM applications.

USA Mathematical Olympiad (USAMO) / Junior USAMO

• Organizer: MAA
• 2026 Dates: April 2026 (by AIME qualification)
• About: Proof-based elite competition; only top ~500 in the nation qualify.
• Why It’s Elite: USAMO distinction signals world-class problem-solving ability.

Math Prize for Girls

• Organizer: Advantage Testing Foundation
• 2025 Date: September 2025 at MIT
• About: Largest math contest for female students in grades 7–12; focuses on proof-based problem solving.
• Why It Matters: Highly selective; fosters community for talented young women in STEM.

‍Stanford Math Tournament (SMT)

• Organizer: Stanford University
• 2026 Date: March 2026 (online and in-person)
• About: Features team, individual, and proof-based events for high schoolers worldwide.
• Why It’s Valuable: Tests creativity and collaboration; recognized in elite STEM admissions.

‍Harvard-MIT Mathematics Tournament (HMMT)

• Organizer: Harvard & MIT students
• 2025–26 Dates: November (online) & February (in-person at MIT)
• About: One of the most prestigious high school math tournaments; proof and team events.
• Why It’s Elite: Extremely competitive; draws top students from across the globe.‍

International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO)

• Organizer: International Mathematical Olympiad Foundation
• 2026 Date: July 2026 (location TBD; U.S. team selected via USAMO/MOP)
• About: Premier global math competition for pre-university students.
• Why It’s Pinnacle: Top-level international recognition in math.

‍Purple Comet! Math Meet

• Organizer: University of Texas at Dallas & AwesomeMath
• 2026 Date: April 2026 (online)
• About: Free, online, team-based math competition with global participation.
• Why Join: Collaborative and accessible; builds teamwork and speed.

‍USA Mathematical Talent Search (USAMTS)

• Organizer: Art of Problem Solving (AoPS) & MAA
• 2025–26 Season: Multiple rounds, beginning September 2025
• About: Long-form, proof-based problems submitted over weeks.
• Why It Matters: Develops proof-writing skills critical for advanced math.

Why These Competitions Matter for Math-Oriented Students

• Proof of Talent: Scores and qualifications are recognized by STEM faculties worldwide.
• Depth Over Breadth: Multi-round and proof-based contests show sustained commitment.
• Essay Material: Reflecting on problem-solving challenges can power strong application narratives.
• Networking: Olympiad and invitational events connect you with other top math students.

Pro Tips for Math Contest Success

• Start early with AMC to get on the pathway toward AIME and USAMO.
• Balance individual and team contests for both personal mastery and leadership experience.
• Document your preparation process—college essays love growth stories.
• Use AoPS resources for training and past problem sets.

Ready to Multiply Your Opportunities?

At AtomicMind, we help students plan competition timelines, connect with mentors, and build a profile that highlights mathematical talent for top colleges. Whether you’re chasing USAMO or just starting with AMC 10, we’ll make sure your achievements add up.