The AMC 8 (American Mathematics Competitions 8) is one of the most influential youth math competitions globally. Organized by the Mathematical Association of America (MAA), it aims to discover mathematical talent and cultivate mathematical thinking. This competition for eighth graders and below has become a key platform for outstanding students worldwide to showcase their mathematical abilities.
With the 2026 AMC 8 approaching, this article provides a comprehensive guide covering its prestige, schedule, syllabus key points, difficulty, and preparation strategies.
1. Prestige of the AMC 8 Competition
The AMC 8 enjoys a high international reputation. Its value lies not only in the awards but also in the long-term benefits for students.
International Recognition: A globally accepted proof of mathematical ability, with over 300,000 participants annually. Excellent scores are highly regarded by top schools in countries like the US, UK, and Canada.
Value for Academic Advancement: In China, AMC 8 scores are a plus for admissions to key middle schools. For students planning to study abroad, it's a significant asset for applications to top US universities like MIT and Stanford.
Gateway to Advanced Competitions: The AMC 8 is the entry point to the US math competition system, leading to AMC 10/12, AIME, and USAMO.
Development of Thinking Skills: The preparation process systematically trains critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
AMC 8 Award Settings and Standards
| Award Type | Award Standard | Recognition Level |
|---|---|---|
| Perfect Score | Score 25 points | Global top level, extremely rare |
| Distinguished Honor Roll (Global Top 1%) | Rank in the top 1% globally | Proof of extremely strong mathematical ability |
| Honor Roll (Global Top 5%) | Rank in the top 5% globally | Possession of outstanding mathematical ability |
| Achievement Roll | Students in 6th grade or below scoring 15 points or above | Special recognition for younger students |
2. How to Register for the 2026 AMC 8?
Exam Date: Friday, January 23, 2026 (17:00 - 17:40).
Registration Deadline: January 13, 2026.
Registration Methods:
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Through Your School: If your school is an official test center, register through your teacher.
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Through the ASDAN China Website/WeChat Mini-Program: Students from non-center schools can register via the official "ASDAN International STEM Assessments" channels.
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Through an Authorized Partner Organization: If your school is not a center, you can register through an authorized partner.
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Summary of AMC 8 Registration Information
| Item | Specific Information |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | 8th grade or below, and age ≤ 14.5 years on exam day |
| Fee | 120 RMB/person |
| Exam Format | In-person, bilingual (Chinese/English) test paper provided |
| Channels | School, ASDAN website, authorized partner organizations |
3. Schedule & Exam Format
Timeline: The contest is 40 minutes long with 25 multiple-choice questions. Scores are typically released within 4-6 weeks.
Format: 25 questions, 1 point each, no penalty for wrong answers. The Chinese test paper is bilingual.
Preparation Timeline: A preparation period of 3-6 months is ideal. Students with a strong foundation should start systematic preparation at least 3 months in advance.
4. Syllabus, Key Points & Difficulty
The AMC 8 covers four main areas: Algebra & Probability, Geometry, Number Theory & Combinatorics, and Word Problems & Logical Reasoning.
2026 AMC 8 Syllabus & Key Points Distribution
| Knowledge Module | Proportion | Key Content | Changes & Difficulties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Algebra & Probability | 40%-45% | Equations, basic functions, sequences | Increased modeling with quadratic functions, dynamic probability calculations; 30% more real-world scenario questions |
| Geometry | 25%-30% | Plane geometry, Pythagorean theorem, area | Strengthened analysis of 3D shape nets, techniques for dissecting irregular shapes |
| Number Theory & Combinatorics | 20%-25% | Prime numbers, factorization, counting principles | Increased difficulty in using short division for LCM/GCF, modular arithmetic with geometric sequences |
| Word Problems & Logic | Throughout | Ratios, percentages, logical reasoning | Increased complexity in problem statements, emphasis on chart analysis and interdisciplinary integration |
Difficulty Levels:
Questions 1-10: Basic, comparable to the harder questions on regular school exams.
Questions 11-20: Intermediate, similar to the preliminary round of Chinese math competitions.
Questions 21-25: High difficulty, approaching the level of simpler questions in high school math leagues, requiring strong innovative thinking.
5. Award Settings & Criteria
Individual Awards: As listed in the table above (Perfect Score, Distinguished Honor Roll, etc.).
School Awards: Include "School Honor Roll" (sum of top 3 scores ≥ 66) and "School Merit Roll" (sum between 50-65). Note: These are only awarded to students who registered through their school.
Historical Score Reference: For reference, the 2024 cutoff for the global top 1% was approximately 22 points, and for the top 5% was about 18 points.
6. Practical Preparation Methods
A scientific preparation plan is key.
Knowledge Building Phase (3-6 months before): Systematically review the four main knowledge areas. Pay special attention to Number Theory and Combinatorics.
Problem-Type Training Phase (1-3 months before): Practice with past papers. Train by difficulty level: master basics, then tackle intermediate, and finally challenge high-difficulty questions.
Mock Testing Phase (1 month before): Take timed practice tests to adapt to the exam's pace and pressure. Practice "question-skipping技巧" – answer questions you're sure about first.
Utilize Resources: Use official past papers, master essential formulas and解题技巧, and take part in mock exams.
Sample Preparation Plan
| Phase | Timeframe | Key Tasks | Goal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foundation | 3-6 months before exam | Systematic study of the four modules | Establish a complete knowledge system |
| Focused Breakthrough | 1-3 months before exam | Targeted training on weak areas | Improve weaknesses, strengthen strengths |
| Mock Sprint | 1 month before exam | Full模拟 tests, past paper practice | Adapt to exam pace, identify gaps |
The true value of the AMC 8 lies not just in awards, but in the mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills developed during preparation, which form a solid foundation for future learning.