Frequently asked questions
Everything families ask us about the AMC 8 — the contest itself, how it works in China, registering with us, and getting ready. Can’t find your question? Message our team.
About the AMC 8
What is the AMC 8?
A 25-question, 40-minute multiple-choice mathematics contest for students in grade 8 and below, created by the Mathematical Association of America to introduce younger students to real problem-solving.
Who can take it?
Students in grade 8 or below who are under 15.5 years old on the day of the contest. There is no minimum age.
How does it help with admissions?
A strong score is a widely recognised signal of mathematical ability, and the AMC 8 is the on-ramp to the AMC 10/12 and the olympiad pathway. See our about page for the full picture.
The paper itself
How many questions, and how long?
25 multiple-choice questions in a single 40-minute sitting, each with five options (A–E) and one correct answer.
Is there a penalty for a wrong answer?
No. One point for each correct answer, zero for blank or wrong — so always attempt every question. Full detail on the competition page.
Can a calculator be used?
No. Calculators and other electronic aids are not permitted; the contest tests reasoning, not computation.
What topics does it cover?
Counting and probability, number theory, elementary geometry (including the Pythagorean theorem) and beginning algebra.
The China region
Who administers the AMC 8 in China?
Two recognized administrators — ASDAN (阿思丹) and the China Organizing Committee (中国区组委会). We are an authorized test centre under both, so you can register and sit directly with us. See the China region page.
English or Chinese paper?
Both are offered to students in China — choose whichever the student reads most comfortably; the mathematics is identical.
Online or on-campus?
Both. There is a home-based (online) sitting and an on-campus (offline) sitting; you choose during registration.
My child is in a US or Canadian school — can they sit it in China?
No. Students enrolled in a US or Canadian school may not sit the AMC 8 in mainland China and should enter through their own region.
With us
How do I register with you?
Message us with your child’s grade, age and city. As an authorized test centre we complete the registration and host the sitting. Full steps on the registration page.
When does registration close?
Mid-January, about ten days before the late-January exam. We’ll tell you the exact 2027 dates as soon as they’re confirmed.
How should my child prepare?
Learn the format, build the four topic areas, and practise with real past papers under time. Our preparation page lays out a study path.
How quickly will you reply?
Usually within one business day, in English or Chinese. Get in touch.