As the 2026 AMC 8 Mathematics Competition officially gets underway, we would like to once again remind students and parents of several critical online exam procedures that have caused issues in previous years. Carefully following these guidelines is essential to ensure valid results.
Online AMC 8 Exam: Key Operational Reminders
1. Do Not Log In at the Last Minute
Students must log in to the exam system at least 30 minutes in advance to complete identity verification and device checks.
No entry is permitted 15 minutes after the exam begins.
During the online exam:
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Switching browser tabs or leaving the exam system is strictly prohibited
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Any such action will trigger forced submission and result invalidation
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Early submission is not allowed; the system will automatically submit the paper at the end of the exam
2. Close All Unrelated Software Before the Exam
Before entering the exam system, students must close all unrelated programs and webpages, especially any software with screen-sharing or live-streaming functions, which may be flagged as suspicious behavior.
Software requirements:
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Exam computer: latest version of Google Chrome (Safari is not permitted on Mac)
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Proctoring phone: Tencent Meeting App (VooV Meeting for non–Mainland China phone numbers)
3. Calculators and Electronic Devices Are Strictly Prohibited
The camera must remain on throughout the exam. The student’s face, hands, and desktop must be clearly visible at all times. Obstructing the camera view or leaving the monitoring area is not allowed.
Prohibited items include:
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Calculators
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Electronic dictionaries
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Smartwatches and other electronic devices
Permitted items include:
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Pencils
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Erasers
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Ruler
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Blank scratch paper
4. Full Exam-Day Process Overview
(Exam-day flowchart provided in original article)
Results and Certificates:
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Scores are typically available 4–6 weeks after the exam
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Electronic certificates can be downloaded after 6–8 weeks
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Based on the 2025 timeline, paper certificates will be mailed at a later stage
5. Maintain a Steady Exam PaceThe AMC 8 consists of 25 multiple-choice questions:
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1 point for each correct answer
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No penalty for incorrect or unanswered questions
Effective time management is crucial:
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First 15 questions: relatively easier; complete efficiently and accurately
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Middle 5 questions: moderate difficulty; proceed carefully
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Final 5 questions: higher difficulty; prioritize questions with clear solution paths
6. AMC 8 Answer Sheet and Exam Rules
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Filling Tools:
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Registration phone number must be written using a black gel pen
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All other bubbles must be filled using a 2B pencil, ensuring clean and complete shading
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Answer Sheet Rules:
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Writing is allowed only in designated answer and signature areas
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No stray marks outside these areas
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After erasing, remove debris to prevent scanning errors
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Answering Rules:
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25 single-choice questions
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Incorrect or multiple markings receive zero points
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Incorrect answers must be fully erased
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Signature Requirement:
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The integrity statement must be signed using a black gel pen
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Block letters are required; cursive writing should be avoided
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Critical Reminder:
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The registered phone number is the unique identifier for each student
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Written and shaded entries must match exactly to avoid invalid results
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Part 2: High-Scoring AMC 8 Problem-Solving Techniques
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Special Value Substitution:
When facing abstract variable relationships, substitute simple values to convert the problem into concrete calculations. -
Elimination Method:
Use parity, value ranges, or logical contradictions to eliminate impossible options and improve accuracy. -
Geometric Decomposition:
Break complex figures into basic shapes, then recombine them to determine areas or lengths.
Exam Strategy Reminder:
Always solve easy questions first. Secure accuracy on the first 15 questions before returning to more challenging ones. Mark difficult problems and revisit them after completing the rest of the exam.
Part 3: Post-Exam Planning After AMC 8
1. If the Score Is Below Expectations: Review and Rebuild
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Students in Grade 3 and Above:
Identify weak topics and problem-solving gaps. With targeted guidance, prepare strategically for the next AMC 8 cycle. -
Students Below Grade 3:
Consider participating in the March Kangaroo Math Competition to build confidence and gain competition experience before returning to AMC 8 preparation.
2. Strong Performance (17+ Points): Move to Advanced Competitions
AMC 8 and AMC 10 share a high degree of topic overlap, but AMC 10 requires greater depth and breadth.
Students with strong AMC 8 results are encouraged to begin systematic AMC 10 preparation in advance, gaining a competitive edge in higher-level math competitions.