The 2026 AMC 8 test dates have just been released — the exam will take place between January 22 and January 28, 2026.

This page offers a complete guide to the AMC 8 math competition — including key information, award breakdowns, and a clear preparation plan with targeted resources, so students can study efficiently without wasting time or effort. At Think Academy, we support students and families in understanding, navigating, and excelling in math competitions that build critical thinking and early academic confidence. Scroll down to explore expert insights, download past exam solutions, and access free AMC 8 practice tools designed to help students succeed at every level.

What is AMC 8

The America Mathematics Competition (AMC) 8 holds a unique and valuable position as a mathematics competition hosted by Mathematical Association of America (MAA) every year.

• Who Can Participate? Students in Grade 8 or below, under 14.5 years old on competition day.
• Competition Focus: Tests counting and probability, estimation, proportional reasoning, elementary geometry, basic algebra, and critical problem-solving skills.
• Why AMC 8 Matters: Develops early mathematical confidence, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving; identifies young math talent and inspires lifelong passion for math.

AMC 8 Registration

AMC 8 is typically held each year in January.

• Registration is required to participate in the AMC 8 competition, and exams must be taken in person at an authorized test center.
• Think Academy proudly hosts both AMC 8 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.

2026 AMC 8 Dates

• AMC 8 – January 22 to 28, 2026

AMC 8 Format and Scoring

• Number of Questions: 25 multiple-choice questions
• Time Limit: 40 minutes
• Two formats: Paper-based exams and Computer-based exams

Scoring System:

• Correct answer: 1 point
• Unanswered or incorrect: 0 points
• Maximum Score: 25 points

AMC 8 Awards and Qualifications

AMC 8 awards recognize outstanding mathematical achievement at various levels:

Award Name	Qualification Criteria
Certificate of Achievement (AR Award)	15+ points (Grade 6 or below)
Honor Roll	18–21 points (Top 5% nationally)
Distinguished Honor Roll (Top Award)	22+ points (Top 1% nationally)

What Is a Good AMC 8 Score?

A “good” AMC 8 score depends on your goals and the exam’s difficulty in a given year. Based on data from 2020–2025, here are reliable benchmarks:

• Distinguished Honor Roll (22+ points)
  • Goal: Stand out for top schools and advanced math contests.
    • This is a top-level score that shows strong readiness for AMC 10, AIME, and STEM programs.
    • Boosts applications to elite schools and math camps
    • Common among students who advance to AIME and USA(J)MO
• Honor Roll (18+ points)
  • Goal: Build a strong foundation for future competitions.
    • A solid score that shows you’re ready for AMC 10 and advanced math enrichment.
    • Recognized by math tracks and summer programs
    • Good preparation for higher-level contests
• Achievement Roll (15+ points, Grade 6 and below)
  • Goal: Gain early exposure and confidence.
    • A strong result for younger students just getting started.
    • Encourages interest in math competitions
    • Builds a strong base for future success

Comparison between AMC 8 and 10

One of the most common questions about AMC 8 is its difficulty level versus AMC 10. Think Academy has done detailed research about AMC 8 and AMC 10, 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

Absolutely! Here’s a shorter, clearer version that keeps all key points while improving scannability and readability:

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Who Should Take the AMC 8?

The AMC 8 is a national math contest for middle schoolers. It builds problem-solving skills and is a great first step into competitive math.

Here’s who it’s best for:

• Grade 7–8 students who excel in math: Strong in school math? Enjoy solving tough problems? AMC 8 is the perfect challenge—no contest experience needed.
• Younger students with advanced ability: In Grade 6 or below but ahead in math? Tried Math Kangaroo or Math League? AMC 8 offers a higher level and builds early confidence.
• Students aiming for AMC 10 or top programs: AMC 8 is the foundation for contests like AMC 10, AIME, and MATHCOUNTS. Strong scores are also valued by top private schools and summer camps.
• Students interested in STEM fields: STEM careers require more than grades. AMC 8 shows critical thinking and creativity—skills that colleges and employers care about.

Bottom line: If your child loves math or wants to explore STEM, AMC 8 is a smart and accessible starting point.

Data Facts

AMC 8 Knowledge Modules

Over the past five years, word problems and geometry have remained consistently high-frequency topics on the AMC 8.

• In 2024, statistics were heavily tested — but in 2025, they barely appeared.
• In contrast, number theory broke from its usual pattern.

This year, it accounted for five full questions, a sharp increase compared to previous years. For students who only follow school math and haven’t systematically studied number theory, this was especially challenging.

Key Takeaway:

The AMC 8 changes focus each year. That means:

• Practicing only the “usual” topics won’t cut it
• To score well, students need balanced preparation across all major modules

AMC 8 Participants and Cutoff Scores

Year	Total Participant	DHR(1%)	HR(5%)	Average score
2025	79,524	23	19	11.74
2024	80,725	22	18	10.75
2023	74,380	21	17	10.26
2022		22	19	9.68
2020		21	18	10

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	AR	HR	DHR	Perfect Score
2025	359	220	68	25
2024	247	211	77	19
2023	162	147	46	4
2022	87	39	11	1

*updated 05/2025

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 8

Not sure how to help your child improve their AMC 8 score?

Use this chart to find out where they stand now, what level they’re at, and what steps to take each month.

Whether your child is just starting out or aiming for the top 1%, this roadmap breaks down the key goals, tasks, and support they need at each stage.

Current Score Range	Level	Target	Monthly Core Tasks	Support Resources
0–12	Foundation	Aim for Achievement roll (score of 15+)	✅ Jun–Aug: Focus on first 10 questions; strengthen core module: operation, number theory, geometry, and word problems ✅ Sep–Nov: Daily practice + AMC 8 Q10-18 difficulty level practice + past exam first 15 questions ✅ Dec–Jan: Review wrong questions + build confidence + light daily drills	🟦 Monthly mock + progress tracking 🟦 Join AMC 8 Daily Challenge 🟩 Basic comprehension & problem-solving class
13–17	Intermediate	Aim for Top 5% (Honor Roll: score of 17-19)	✅ Jun–Aug: Strengthen accuracy on Q1–15, start modular training on word problem, number theory, geometry ✅ Sep–Nov: Deep dive Q16–21 + monthly mock ✅ Dec–Jan: Full set review + daily practice + mindset prep	🟦 Monthly mock + error analysis 🟦 Full AMC 8 Daily Challenge 🟦 Strategic modules for Q16–22 🟥 Confidence building & mindset sessions
18–25	Advanced	Aim for Top 1%(Distinguished Honor Roll: score of 21-23)	✅ Jun–Aug: Timed sets for Q10–20 + trap training ✅ Sep–Nov: Advanced AMC 8 sets (last 5 questions) + monthly mock exams ✅ Dec–Jan: Full simulation, mindset focus, mistake correction	🟦 Monthly mock simulations 🟦 High-difficulty problem practice 🟦 Elite short-term intensive training 🟥 Mindset coaching seminars

AMC 8 Past Exam Solutions and Exercise Pack

Explore detailed AMC 8 solutions from 2022 and 2025, and access Think Academy’s exclusive AMC 8 Mock Exams and Daily Practice. Fill out the form now to download these valuable resources and make your AMC 8 preparation more targeted and efficient!

AMC 8 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 mock exams regularly helps identify learning gaps, spot weak areas, and measure how much a student is improving over time.

• July Mock Exam
• August Mock Exam
• September Mock Exam
• October Mock Exam
• November Mock Exam
• January Mock Exam

Post-exam Analysis & Webinars

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 8 changes.

• 2025 AMC 8
• 2024 AMC 8
• 2023 AMC 8

In addition, we usually host post-exam webinars right after the exam to help kids reinforce what they’ve been through and learnt from the latest exam. Check the playback below:

• 2024 AMC 8 Post Exam Webinar
• 2025 AMC 8 Pre Exam Webinar

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About Think Academy

Think Academy, a top math education brand under TAL Education Group, offers specialized training for the prestigious AMC 8 competition. In 2025, 672 Think Academy students earned national awards—65% of them placed on the Achievement, Honor, or Distinguished Honor Rolls. From 2022 to 2025, our results have grown rapidly, setting records in award counts and perfect scores. Backed by expert teachers and a proven curriculum, Think Academy prepares middle schoolers for lasting success in competitive math. Explore our AMC 8 programs and start your child’s winning journey.

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