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2026 AMC 10 Math Competition: Registration, Exam Dates, and Prep Guide

·Blogs·4 min read

The AMC 10 is one of the most influential high school mathematics competitions globally. With universal recognition and high academic value, it serves as a powerful testament to a student’s mathematical ability and logical reasoning. The 2026 AMC 10 will be held in November. This guide outlines the registration process, exam schedule, and preparation strategies for students aiming for the top 1%.

AMC 10 Competition Introduction

The AMC 10 (American Mathematics Competition 10) is organized by the Mathematical Association of America (MAA). Each year, over 300,000 middle and high school students worldwide participate. It is highly recognized by top 30 universities in the UK and the US as a key indicator of STEM proficiency.

  • Eligibility: Open to students in grade 10 and below, under 17.5 years of age. It is highly suitable for international students in grades 7–10.
  • Exam Format: The competition offers two versions, A and B, which are identical in difficulty. Students may take one or both, with the highest score used for advancement. The test consists of 25 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 75 minutes, with a maximum score of 150. Scoring: +6 points for a correct answer, +1.5 points for an unanswered question, and 0 points for an incorrect answer (no penalty for wrong answers).
  • Content Covered: The exam focuses on four core modules: Algebra, Geometry, Number Theory, and Combinatorics & Probability. The content aligns with IGCSE, A-Level, and AP curricula but excludes calculus. It heavily emphasizes mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills.
  • Core Value: The top 5% of scorers receive the Honor Roll (HR) award, while the top 2.5% qualify for the AIME (American Invitational Mathematics Examination). These achievements are significant references for admissions to elite universities like MIT, Stanford, Oxford, and Cambridge, and serve as a strong advantage for STEM major applications.

2026 AMC 10 Registration & Exam Schedule

  • Registration Opens: Registration for the A version is expected to open in late September 2026, while the B version will likely open in mid-to-late October 2026.
  • Registration Deadlines:
    • A Version: Expected around October 27, 2026.
    • B Version: Expected around November 9, 2026.
  • Exam Dates (2026):
    • A Version: Estimated November 5, 2026, 17:00–18:15 (75 minutes, in-person).
    • B Version: Estimated November 13, 2026, 17:00–18:15 (scheduled one week after the A version).
  • Results Release: Scores will be published 6–8 weeks after the exam. Students can check their results and download electronic certificates through their registration channels.
  • How to Register:
    1. If your school is an official AMC testing center, you can register through your school.
    2. Individual students can register via the ASDAN International Academic Challenge mini-program or through officially authorized agencies.

AMC 10 Difficulty Analysis & Preparation Strategies

How does the AMC 10 compare to domestic math competitions? Its difficulty is comparable to the provincial level of China’s junior high school math league and significantly exceeds standard international school mathematics. The core challenges lie in three areas:

  1. Out-of-Syllabus Knowledge: Topics in Number Theory and Combinatorics (e.g., modular arithmetic, inclusion-exclusion principle) are often weak points in standard international curricula and require systematic, targeted study.
  2. Steep Difficulty Curve: The 25 questions are clearly tiered. Questions 1–10 are foundational (target 90%+ accuracy), Questions 11–20 are intermediate (the core scoring zone), and Questions 21–25 are advanced (these determine award levels).
  3. Difference in Mathematical Thinking: While school math often relies on fixed formulas and routines, the AMC 10 emphasizes reverse analysis, rapid problem-solving, and finding optimal solution paths. Completing 25 questions in 75 minutes demands both speed and accuracy.

To prepare efficiently, follow a three-phase “Foundation – Intensive – Sprint” strategy:

  • Foundation Phase (June–July): Complete the knowledge framework by reviewing core algebra and geometry concepts. Focus on bridging gaps in number theory and combinatorics. Goal: Achieve 90%+ accuracy on questions 1–15 and establish a complete conceptual framework.
  • Intensive Phase (August–September): Break through past papers by practicing the last 10 years of exams. Conduct module-specific training for intermediate questions (11–20) and summarize high-frequency problem-solving techniques. Goal: Reach 85%+ accuracy on intermediate questions and begin familiarizing yourself with advanced problem-solving approaches.
  • Sprint Phase (October–November): Focus on mock exams and pacing. Take 2–3 full-length, timed mock exams per week (strictly 75 minutes) to build exam rhythm. Identify and fix weak points. Goal: Score 105+ (the typical AIME qualification cutoff).

Get FREE AMC 10 Preparation Materials

Scan the QR code below to access free practice papers, study guides, and past competition materials. Start preparing today!