Upcoming Mathematics Competition Registration Deadlines
Major mathematics competitions are closing their registration windows soon. Missing these dates can mean waiting a year for another chance. Whether you are a student, parent, or teacher, confirm who is registered, who has paid, and who still needs to sign up.
Why These Deadlines Matter Right Now
For most contests, registration affects several important factors:
- Eligibility – Late registrations are often not accepted.
- Testing locations – Schools must book rooms and arrange materials.
- Team formation – Some contests require team rosters before the deadline.
- Fee levels – Early registration often saves money.
All dates are approximate; verify on the official competition website before finalizing your plans.
American Mathematics Competitions (AMC 8, 10, 12)
The American Mathematics Competitions (AMC) are vital contests administered by the Mathematical Association of America (MAA).
- Contest windows: AMC 8: January AMC 10/12 A: early November AMC 10/12 B: late November
- Registration deadlines: Regular registration: closes 3–4 weeks before each exam. Late registration: may continue until about 1–2 weeks before the exam.
- Registration: Typically handled by schools and approved centers; some regions allow homeschooled students to register.
Next steps: Schools should confirm how many students will participate and submit orders on the MAA AMC portal. Students should verify their school’s registration status with their teachers.
AIME, USAMO, and USAJMO Qualification Timelines
For contests like the AIME, USAMO, and USAJMO, registration deadlines depend on AMC 10/12 and AIME performance.
- Key implication: Missing the AMC 10/12 registration means losing the chance to qualify for AIME, USAMO, or USAJMO.
- Action for teachers: Ensure students aiming for AIME are enrolled in the appropriate AMC exam before it closes.
MathCounts: School, Chapter, and State Levels
MathCounts is a key middle school competition featuring multiple levels.
- School registration deadline: Typically in October or early November.
- Late registration: May allow increased fees up to a second deadline.
- Chapter competition dates: Usually in February, but registration must be completed earlier.
Next steps: Coaches should confirm active MathCounts registration and team rosters, while families should check their school’s participation or explore forming a new team.
International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) Pathways
For the IMO, each country manages its own registration timelines and selection exams.
- National Olympiad registration: Often requires prior success in earlier contests.
- Deadlines: Typically from October to January.
- Eligibility: Usually limited to local citizens or long-term residents.
Next steps: Interested students should visit their national mathematical society's website to confirm selection exam dates.
Regional and State Mathematics Leagues
Regional leagues offer competition opportunities during the school year.
- League registration: Often opens in late summer and closes in September or October.
- Meet schedules: Monthly or quarterly from fall through spring.
- Fees: Per school or team, with discounts for early registration.
Next steps: Check whether your school is affiliated with a local league and get registration instructions if not.
Online and Global Competitions with Rolling or Tiered Deadlines
Many competitions now run online or hybrid formats with several testing windows.
- International contests: Often allow registration up until one to two weeks before each round.
- Tiered deadlines: Early and late registration periods with varying fees.
- Capacity limits: Popular contests may close registration early if they reach capacity.
Next steps: Create a shared calendar for each competition’s registration and payment due dates to avoid conflicts.
Common Pitfalls That Cause Students to Miss Deadlines
Every year, students miss competitions due to avoidable mistakes. Common issues include:
- Assuming registration is complete when it is not.
- Confusing contest dates with registration deadlines.
- Overlooking payment requirements.
- Ignoring email confirmations.
- Procrastinating on team decisions.
A Practical Deadline Checklist for Students and Schools
To stay ahead of deadlines, consider this checklist:
- List target competitions: AMC, MathCounts, regional leagues, Olympics, online contests.
- Record official deadlines: Note regular and late registration dates.
- Set earlier internal deadlines: At least one week before the official deadline.
- Assign responsibility: Decide who will handle registrations.
- Confirm registration status: Look for email confirmations or receipts.
- Plan for make-ups: Identify alternative competitions if deadlines are missed.
What to Do If You Have Already Missed a Deadline
If a registration window has closed, options may exist:
- Check for late registration: Some contests allow this with higher fees.
- Ask about waitlists: Open centers may still have capacity.
- Look for alternative contests: Gain experience in other competitions.
- Mark next year’s dates: Add approximate deadlines to your calendar.
Staying Informed Throughout the Competition Season
Competition calendars change. Stay informed by:
- Subscribing to newsletters from competition organizers.
- Following official accounts on social media.
- Encouraging a shared deadline board within the math department or club.
With important competitions approaching their deadlines, planning ahead can ensure talented students do not miss opportunities due to late submissions.
