american maths competitions 8 (AMC 8) preparatory classes

Mathematical prowess and critical thinking skills are tested and honed in this competition, enabling a middle school student to get their path paved for the upgraded AMC 10 and 12 exams.

It is an MCQ test of 25 questions to be finished in 40 minutes.

AMC 8 is a challenging mathematical competition and requires coaching for a student to excel.

• Counting and probability, 
• Estimation, 
• Proportional reasoning, 
• Elementary geometry, 
• Incorporating the application of the Pythagorean Theorem, 
• Spatial visualisation with real-world applications, 
• Interpretation of graphs and tables,
• Linear or quadratic functions and equations, 
• Coordinate geometry, and  
• Algebra.

There is no negative marking system in AMC 8. 

• Correct answers get 1 point.
• Incorrect answers earn 0 points.
• Leaving a question unanswered also accrues 0 points.

The foundation of AMC 8 preparation is on the student's own clarity about the basic concepts. Structured content, expert coaching, mock tests and speed training build on that solid foundation takes between 25 to 30 weeks to preparation. Maths is always about understanding the concept and practice.

The average score in 2024 was 10.75 out of 25. The top 5% students' average score was 18 and the ace 1% scored and average of 22. 

The 5% top students get a degree of Honor Roll and the Ace 1% receives Distinguished Honor Roll.

The increasing difficulty level of the exam makes it very challenging. A student scoring 21/25 is going to be a considerable achievement.

Students should start learning AMC 8 from the school year 6. However, some start in grade 7 or even 8 too.

There is a 5 step process laid:

1. Set your goal
2. Take the merit test of admission
3. Join the course as soon as you can 
4. Attend all sessions and focus on the learning
5. Practice and conquer the tougher problems.

If you’re serious about the Ivy Leagues/top US colleges, especially the top STEM schools such as MIT, Caltech and Stanford, you should be focused as much on the AMCs as you are on the SATs. 

The top schools now explicitly ask for AMC scores in their application form, though not mandatory to provide. Your AMC score will set you apart on your college applications.