A Parent's Guide to US Math Competitions

Challenge your child and build a powerful academic profile. Discover the top US math competitions for students in grades 4-8 and how to prepare them for success.

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Top Math Competitions for Middle Schoolers

These prestigious competitions go beyond school curriculum to foster creative problem-solving and logical reasoning—key skills for top school admissions and a future in STEM.

American Mathematics Competitions (AMC 8)

The premier US competition for middle schoolers. A 25-question, 40-minute test that builds foundational skills for higher-level math and is a stepping stone to the USA Mathematical Olympiad.

MathCounts

A national program with school, chapter, and state competitions leading to a National Championship. Focuses on speed, accuracy, and collaborative problem-solving through various rounds.

Math Kangaroo

An international competition with a strong presence in the US. Known for its creative, puzzle-like multiple-choice problems that emphasize logical thinking over complex calculations.

MOEMS (Division M)

The Middle School Division of the Mathematical Olympiads for Elementary and Middle Schools offers five monthly contests, perfect for building skills consistently over the school year.