Math competitions are a great way for kids to challenge themselves, learn new math concepts, and have fun. There are many different math competitions available for kids, from national-level competitions to school-level competitions.
In this blog post, we will discuss the 10 best math competitions for kids in 2023. We will also provide some information on how to participate in these competitions.
1. Math Kangaroo
The Math Kangaroo is a math competition for students in grades 1 to 12. It is organized by the Kangaroo Math Association, and it is one of the most popular math competitions in the world.
Type of Competition: International
Eligibility Criteria: Students from Class 1 to 12
2. Aryabhata National Maths Competition
The Aryabhata National Maths Competition is a math competition for students in grades 1 to 10. It is organized by the All India Council for Technical Skill Development, and it is one of the most prestigious math competitions for kids.
Type of Competition: National
Eligibility Criteria:
- Any school student from class 4 to 12 can apply
- Any college student or professional up to age 28 can apply
3. SOF International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO)
The SOF International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) is a math competition for students in grades 1 to 12. It is organized by the Science Olympiad Foundation, and it is one of the most popular math competitions for kids. The first level of the IMO exam is held between the months of December and January and is organized in the respective schools of the participants during school hours. The level 2 is conducted for students of class 3 to class 12.
Type of Competition: International
Eligibility Criteria: Students from Classes 1 to 12
4. National Talent Search Examination (NTSE)
The National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) is a national-level scholarship exam that tests students' math, science, and English skills. Students who score well on the NTSE can receive scholarships to study at top colleges and universities.
Type of Competition: National
Eligibility Criteria: Indian students from class 10
- Stage I – State level (conducted by the State/UT)
- Stage II – National level (conducted by NCERT)
5. Indian National Mathematical Olympiad (INMO)
The Indian National Mathematical Olympiad (INMO) is an annual high school math competition held by HBCSE. It serves as the third stage for selecting the Indian team for the International Mathematical Olympiad. Thousands of students participate, but only 30 are chosen. Selected candidates undergo training at IMOTC, and six represent the country internationally.
Type of Competition: National
Eligibility Criteria:
- INMO candidates selected based on performance in Regional Mathematical Olympiad (RMO).
- Maximum 28 students from grades 8-11 and 6 from grade 12 participate.
- Chosen participants compete in the HBCSE INMO examination.
- Achievement in basic stage test determines eligibility for INMO.
6. Ramanujan National Maths challenge
The International Youth Math Challenge is a math competition for students in grades 1 to 12. It is organized by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT), and it is one of the most popular math competitions for kids in 2023.
Type of Competition: International
Eligibility Criteria:
- Students in grades 4 to 12
- Any college student or professional upto age 28 can apply
7. Mathematics Olympiad for Elementary and Middle Schools (MOEMS)
The Mathematics Olympiad for Elementary and Middle Schools (MOEMS) is a math competition for students in grades 1 to 8. It is organized by the Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education, and it is one of the most popular math competitions for kids.
Type of Competition: National (Only USA)
Eligibility Criteria:
- Students from class 4 to 8
- Only for Elementary and Middle School
8. Perennial Math Tournaments
Perennial Math Tournaments is an extremely popular math competition that attracts elementary students from around the world. Whether you prefer participating online, virtually, or in person, you have the freedom to choose the format that suits you best. Each tournament has its own set of rules, so make sure to visit their information pages below for further details. There are usually two seasons for these online tournaments, which are held in (Nov–Feb, Jan–Apr)
Type of Competition: National
Eligibility Criteria: Individual students or teams from grades 3–8.
9. Harvard MIT Invitational
The Harvard MIT Invitational holds a special place among math competitions for high school students due to just its name. This international event, consisting of two annual competitions, offers a unique opportunity for talented students worldwide. The February edition, in particular, is renowned for its challenging nature, designed to test the skills of the brightest math prodigies on the planet. Exceptional individuals and exceptional teams that secure the highest scores receive not only impressive prizes but also the recognition and admiration of two esteemed institutions—Harvard and MIT, known for their excellence in academia.
Type of Competition: Invitational Only
Eligibility Criteria: High school students Only
10. PRMO
The Pre-Regional Mathematics Olympiad (PRMO) is a math competition for students in grades 8 and 9. It is organized by the Indian Mathematical Society, and it is one of the first steps in the selection process for the IMO.
Type of Competition: National
Eligibility Criteria:
- Students must be born on or after August 1, 2001.
- PRMO 2022-23 is open to students in grades 8 to 12.
- Only Indian citizens will be allowed to write the examination.
The table below provides an easy-to-compare overview of the competitions, allowing you to conveniently access all the relevant details in one place.
| Competition | Type | Eligibility Criteria | Rewards |
| Indian National Mathematical Olympiad (INMO) | National | Indian students up to class 12 | Admission in IIT Bombay |
| Math Kangaroo | International | Students from various grade levels | Ranking certificates and prizes such as books, games, gift cards, toys, digital kits, college grants ,etc. |
| Aryabhata National Maths Competition | National | Indian students up to class 10 | 1st position - Rs.1,50,000/- 2nd position - Rs. 50,000/- 3rd position - Rs. 10,000/- with certificates |
| SOF International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) | International | Students from various grade levels | 1st position - Rs.50,000/- 2nd position - Rs. 25,000/- 3rd position - Rs. 10,000/- with medals and certificates |
| National Talent Search Examination (NTSE) | National | Indian students up to class 10 (Stage 1) | Scholarships and recognition |
| International Youth Math Challenge | International | Students from various age groups and countries | Cash prize, Certificates, awards, and prizes |
| Mathematics Olympiad for Elementary and Middle Schools (MOEMS) | National | Students from elementary and middle schools | Certificates, awards, and prizes |
| Perennial Math Tournaments | National | Students from various grade levels | Trophies, medals, and certificates |
| Harvard MIT Invitational | Invitational | High school students | Prizes and certificates |
| PRMO | National | Indian students up to class 11 | Selection for RMO and INMO |
In conclusion, math competitions can be a thrilling and rewarding way for kids to explore their mathematical skills and have fun at the same time. In this blog, we discovered the top 10 math competitions for kids in 2023. These competitions offer exciting challenges and opportunities and can help kids develop problem-solving abilities, logical thinking, and perseverance. Whether you enjoy solving puzzles, tackling complex equations, or exploring patterns, there is a competition out there for you.
Remember, the key is to enjoy the process and not be discouraged by any setbacks. Every competition is a chance to learn and grow. So, practice, ask questions, and embrace the joy of math!
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