The 2025 AMC 10 and AMC 12 test dates have just been released! The AMC 10A and AMC 12A exams will take place on November 5, and the AMC 10B and AMC 12B exams on November 13.

This page provides essential information and powerful resources designed specifically to help students excel in the AMC 10 math competition. Think Academy equips students and families with clear guidance, effective strategies, and structured practice materials aligned precisely with AMC 10 objectives, enabling students to reach their highest potential. Scroll down to explore detailed articles, access past exam solutions, and download free AMC 10 practice PDFs for targeted and efficient preparation.

What is AMC 10

The America Mathematics Competition (AMC) 10 is a challenging and prestigious mathematics competition hosted by Mathematical Association of America (MAA) every year.

• Why AMC 10 Matters: Identifies math talent, qualifies students for advanced competitions (AIME, USAMO), and strengthens college applications, highlighting STEM aptitude.
• Who Can Participate? Students in Grade 10 or below, under 17.5 years old on contest day.
• Competition Focus: Tests algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and emphasizes critical problem-solving and mathematical reasoning.

AMC 10 Registration

AMC 10 is typically held each year in November. It consists of two separate exams:

• AMC 10A and AMC 10B: Students can choose to participate in either or both exams. Scores and AIME qualification cutoffs are calculated separately for each exam.
• Registration is required to participate in the AMC 10 competition, and exams must be taken in person at an authorized test center.

2025 AMC 10 Dates

• AMC 10 A (and AMC 12 A) –  Wednesday, November 5, 2025
• AMC 10 B (and AMC 12 B) –  Thursday, November 13, 2025

What’s the Difference Between AMC 10A and AMC 10B?

• Two Separate Exams: AMC 10 includes two tests—AMC 10A and AMC 10B—with identical formats but different questions.
• Comparable Difficulty: The AMC 10A and AMC 10B each have unique question sets and similar—but not identical—difficulty. Students are encouraged to take both exams, as only the higher score counts, maximizing their chances of success.
• Higher Score Counts: Only the higher score between AMC 10A and AMC 10B counts for awards and qualification.
• Flexible Testing: Students can take AMC 10A and AMC 10B at different locations (e.g., school and Think Academy).

Think Academy proudly hosts both AMC 10 every year, providing students a convenient and reliable testing environment. Please visit our program page during the registration period to find a testing location near you and secure your spot.

AMC 10 Format and Scoring

• Number of Questions: 25 multiple-choice questions
• Time Limit: 75 minutes
• Formats: Paper-based exam or Computer-based exam
• Scoring System:
  • Correct answer: 6 points
  • Unanswered: 1.5 points
  • Incorrect answer: 0 points
  • Maximum Score: 150 points

What is a “Good Score” for AMC 10?

Based on award data from recent years, Think Academy recommends aiming for the following scores to achieve these goals.

Student’s Goal	Recommended AMC 10 Score
Qualifying for AIME	105+
Honor Roll / College & STEM Applications	115+
USA(J)MO Advanced Competition Preparation	130+

AMC 10 Awards and Qualifications

AMC 10 awards recognize outstanding mathematical achievement at various levels:

Award Name	Qualification Criteria	Importance & Impact
Certificate of Achievement (AR) (Achievement Roll)	90+ points (8th grade or younger)	Specifically recognizes younger students; score closely aligns with AIME qualification. Usually indicates readiness for AIME.
AIME Qualification	95–105 points (Top 6–8% of participants)	Entry-level qualification achievable through consistent study and practice. Beneficial for college applications, especially for Top 30–50 universities.
Honor Roll	100–115 points (Top 5% of participants)	Slightly higher than AIME cutoff; similar in prestige to AIME qualification, though not yet at USA(J)MO level. Useful for applications to Top 30–50 universities.
Distinguished Honor Roll	130–135 points (Top 1% of participants)	The highest AMC 10 award. Students in this category typically have strong chances to qualify for USA(J)MO. Valuable for admissions to Top 30 universities.

Comparison between AMC 8 and 10

One of the most common questions about AMC 10 is its difficulty level versus AMC 8.

The AMC 8 and AMC 10 are both designed by the Mathematical Association of America (MAA) to challenge students’ mathematical thinking, but they differ significantly in scope and difficulty.

• The AMC 8 targets middle school students (grades 8 and below), covering foundational problem-solving and logic.
• The AMC 10, aimed at high school students (grades 10 and below), involves more advanced topics such as algebra, geometry, number theory, and combinatorics.

Think Academy has done detailed research about AMC 10 and AMC 8, read the article below to understand its difference.

How Hard is AMC 10 in Comparison to AMC 8 and In-School Math?

We also have student who share the real journey of getting through AMC 8 to AMC 10. Read the article below.

A Rising Star: Conquering the Leap from AMC 8 Achievement Roll to AMC 10 Honor Roll

Comparison between AMC 10 and 12

While both AMC 10 and AMC 12 competitions cover similar mathematical domains—algebra, geometry, combinatorics, and number theory—there are important differences to consider in terms of content scope, difficulty, and competitiveness:

Content Differences

• AMC 10: Primarily covers Algebra 1 & 2, Geometry, fundamental Number Theory, and basic Combinatorics.
• AMC 12: Includes all AMC 10 topics, plus more advanced subjects such as complex numbers, trigonometric functions, logarithms, advanced algebra, and analytic geometry.

Difficulty Level

• Shared Questions: AMC 10 and AMC 12 typically have about 9–12 overlapping problems each year, but these appear as later (more difficult) problems on the AMC 10 and as earlier (easier) ones on AMC 12.
• Overall Difficulty: AMC 12 is generally considered significantly harder, with more complex algebraic manipulations, higher-level geometry, and a greater emphasis on advanced mathematics skills.

Competition & Advancement

• AMC 12 Competitiveness: AMC 12 participants include high school juniors and seniors, often with stronger mathematical foundations, increasing the competitiveness compared to AMC 10.
• Scoring Trends: AMC 12 tends to have slightly higher average scores, but a higher proportion of students advance to AIME. For example, in 2021 Fall AMC 10, the average AMC 10A score was 59.63 (AIME cutoff at 96 points, top 6.16%), while AMC 12A had an average of 63.65 (AIME cutoff at 91.5 points, top 12.62%).

Overall, students aiming for top universities, particularly STEM-focused programs, often shift from AMC 10 to AMC 12 to demonstrate mastery of higher-level mathematical concepts and readiness for rigorous academic challenges.

Who Should Take the AMC 10?

1. Advanced Math Students with Strong Grades

• AMC 10 is more difficult than typical school math.
• Ideal for students already in accelerated math classes and earning strong grades.
• If struggling in school math, prioritize improving grades first.

Interest matters:

• Great fit for students who enjoy challenging math problems.
• Provides rewarding experiences and deepens math engagement.

2. Students Planning STEM Majors

• AMC 10 tests skills beyond regular algebra, including number theory, combinatorics, and logical reasoning.
• Universities (especially STEM-focused) value success in math competitions.
• High AMC 10 scores highlight mathematical talent and academic potential.

Additional Benefits:

• Demonstrates resilience, passion, and persistence.
• Attractive to selective college admissions.

3. Students with Math Competition Experience

• Students with prior experience (AMC 8, Math Kangaroo, MATHCOUNTS) have an advantage.
• Familiarity with problem-solving skills and advanced concepts.

Newcomers Also Welcome:

• Previous competition experience not required.
• Structured preparation and consistent effort can lead to success regardless of starting point.

Data Facts

AMC 10 Knowledge Modules

Module	Trends & Observations	Key Data Points	Recommendations
Algebra	Highest overall proportion, significant annual fluctuations. Increasing trend since 2020.	+2.4% overall since 2020.Yearly fluctuations (~8% swing annually).	Build comprehensive algebra knowledge; no topic weaknesses allowed.
Geometry	Inverse relationship with algebra proportion; fluctuates notably. Stable combined total (~60%) with Algebra.	~60% combined proportion with Algebra each year.	Prepare in coordination with algebra due to inverse relationship.
Number Theory	Rapidly increasing prominence, now second-largest module. Historically undervalued by students.	Consistent rise since 2022. Previously lowest, now second-highest proportion.	Allocate extra preparation time; increased emphasis required.
Counting & Probability	Most stable module, consistently around 20% since 2021.	Stable ~20% yearly.	Maintain steady practice; critical but predictable area.

Key Insights & Recommendations:

• Algebra consistently holds the largest share of AMC 10 questions. However, no single topic completely dominates, so students must ensure comprehensive coverage across all mathematical areas without significant weaknesses.
• Recent shifts in question difficulty indicate that the first 10 questions have become harder, while the last five have become easier. This adjustment allows more students to complete all problems, meaning speed and accuracy are now the primary differentiators among top scorers.

AMC 10 Participants and Cutoff Scores

AMC 10A

Year	Total Participant	DHR(1%)	HR(5%)	AIME Cutoff (~6-8%)	Average score
2024	30,545	132	105	94.5	58
2023	30,043	136.5	111	103.5	64.74
2022	27,411	120	99	93	58.32
2021 Fall		117	100.5	96	59.63
2021 Spring		132	112.5	103.5	65.53

AMC 10B

Year	Total Participant	DHR(1%)	HR(5%)	AIME Cutoff (~6-8%)	Average score
2024	23,364	138	114	105	61.77
2023	22,912	135	112.5	105	63
2022	22,885	114	100.5	94.5	58.32
2021 Fall		120	100.5	96	56.57
2021 Spring		126	108	102	61.31

To learn more about AMC statistics, click here.

Think Academy Achievements

Think Academy’s AMC 10 Achievements: Each number represents the total students receiving awards per year.

Year	AIME Qualifier	HR	DHR	Perfect Score
2024	136	97	23	3
2023	115	56	15	4
2022	55	35	7

To read more Think Academy students’ achievements on other math competitions:

• 2024-2025: 2024 AMC 10, 2025 AMC 8, 2025 Math Kangaroo
• 2023-2024: 2023 AMC 10, 2024 AMC 8, 2024 Math Kangaroo
• 2022-2023: 2022 AMC 10, 2023 AMC 8, 2023 Math Kangaroo

How to Prepare Effectively for Upcoming AMC 10

Math Knowledge Covered in AMC 10

AMC 10 covers advanced math topics typically learned by Grade 10, including:

• Algebra: Quadratic equations, factoring, abstract algebraic reasoning.
• Geometry: Similarity, congruency, geometric proofs.
• Number Theory: Integers, divisibility, primes.
• Counting & Probability: Basic combinatorial principles and probability theory.

AMC 10 problems go far beyond regular Grade 10 Common Core math. They require deeper conceptual understanding, abstract reasoning, and rapid problem-solving skills.

Differences from School Math:

• Algebra and Geometry: AMC problems expand significantly beyond standard Algebra 1 and Geometry courses. Regular classes emphasize structured proofs and straightforward calculations, while AMC 10 demands quick identification and application of advanced concepts like similarity and congruency. Algebra problems require greater algebraic fluency and abstract logic.
• Number Theory, Counting & Probability: Typically less familiar, these topics are rarely covered thoroughly in regular curricula. Though their scope on AMC 10 is narrower, students still need focused practice to master efficient problem-solving techniques.

Due to AMC 10’s complexity and the typical high-school workload, a one-year preparation timeline can be challenging. Students should adopt a structured long-term plan to build foundational knowledge systematically. Complementing this approach with an intensive short-term sprint before the competition will maximize the student’s chance of achieving high scores.

Comprehensive AMC 10 Long-term Preparation Roadmap:

Three Phases of AMC 10 Preparation:

• Phase 1 (Grades 6–8): Build foundational math knowledge and concepts essential for AMC 10.
• Phase 2 (Typically Grades 7–9): Develop targeted problem-solving skills to consistently complete the first 15 AMC 10 questions within 45 minutes (target: AMC 10 Achievement Roll).
• Phase 3 (Typically Grades 7–9): Master advanced problem-solving techniques to effectively complete 20 or more AMC 10 questions (including the challenging final 10) within 70 minutes (target: AIME qualification).
• Grade 10 Students: Since AMC 10 eligibility ends after grade 10, students currently in grade 10 should either pursue intensive short-term preparation for AMC 10 or shift their focus toward preparing for AMC 12.

Phase	Current Academic Level	Content & Focus	Duration	Target Goals
Phase 1A	Currently in Pre-Algebra, no AMC 10 foundation yet	Start with AMC 8 preparation and competitions: Gradually transition to AMC 10 foundational content	~2 years	AMC 8: achieve 15+ points
Phase 1B	Currently studying Algebra 1 and other AMC 10 basics	Master AMC10 fundamental concepts: Algebra, Geometry, Number Theory, Probability, Combinatorics		First time, Score 70–80 points on AMC10
Phase 2	Completed Algebra 1 and Geometry, some foundation in Number Theory & Probability	Intensive practice on first 15 AMC10 problems (common types and solving strategies)	~1 year	– Solve 15 problems in 45 mins – Reach Achievement Roll level (~90 points)
Phase 3	Already completed foundational AMC10 training, consistently scoring around 90 points	Advanced preparation for final 10 AMC10 problems: Focus on most challenging AMC & introductory AIME-level questions		– Solve 20 problems in 70 mins – Qualify for AIME (~105 points) – HR or DHR (110+ points)

Short-Term Preparation (Final 6-Month Sprint):

Step	Action	Recommended Timeline	Objective
1	Take Mock Exams	Start ~4 months before exam	Assess knowledge, understand format, improve familiarity
2	Master Key Problems	Ongoing from mock exams	Secure at least first 10 problems confidently
3	Address Common Mistakes	Last 2–3 months	Reduce errors on challenging mid-exam problems
4	Tackle Final Questions	Last 1–2 months	Aim for high-level awards (HR, DHR, USAJMO qualification)

AMC 10 Past Exam Solutions, Downloadable Knowledge Checklist, and Exercise Pack

Explore detailed AMC 10 solutions from 2023 and 2024, and access Think Academy’s exclusive AMC 10 Knowledge Checklist, daily exercises, and comprehensive infographics showing how AMC 10 knowledge points align with both school and Think Academy curricula. Fill out the form now to download these valuable resources and make your AMC 10 preparation more targeted and efficient!

AMC 10 Mock Exams

Mock exams shouldn’t be used just for extra practice — they play a key role in tracking progress and planning for the real test. Taking AMC 10 assessment regularly helps identify learning gaps, spot weak areas, and measure how much a student is improving over time.

• Mock 1: https://www.thethinkacademy.com/quiz/evaluation/instruction/4222
• Mock 2: https://www.thethinkacademy.com/quiz/evaluation/instruction/4595
• Mock 3: https://www.thethinkacademy.com/quiz/evaluation/instruction/5101

Post-exam Analysis

Think Academy provides detailed trend analyses after each year’s exam, covering topic proportions, difficulty trends, and key insights. Read the articles below to deepen your understanding of AMC 10 changes.

• 2024 AMC 10
• 2023 AMC 10 A
• 2023 AMC 10 B
• 2022 AMC 10

If you’re considering an AMC 10 preparation class, we highly recommend reading this article:

Is School Math Enough for AMC 10? How Prep Classes Help

About Think Academy

At Think Academy, a subsidiary of TAL Education Group, we specialize in advanced coaching and rigorous preparation for math competitions, including AMC 10 and AIME. Guided by experienced educators and supported by partnerships with renowned institutions, Think Academy empowers high-school students to reach their full competitive potential in mathematics. Notably, in 2024, our students achieved exceptional recognition, including selections for prestigious programs such as USA(J)MO (17 students), the Mathematical Olympiad Program (3 students), and the International Mathematical Olympiad teams for the U.S. and South Africa. Explore our AMC 10 training programs to help your child excel.

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