The AMC 8, organized by the Mathematical Association of America (MAA), is a prominent competition for middle school students and often serves as the gateway to the AMC series of exams. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the 2026 AMC 8, addressing the most commonly asked questions related to the exam’s structure, difficulty level, historical performance, and valuable preparation advice. 

What is AMC 8?

• Full Name: American Mathematics Competitions 8
• Organizer: Mathematical Association of America (MMA), a global community encompassing math enthusiasts, scholars, and students, dedicated to enhancing people’s understanding of the world by showcasing how mathematics profoundly influences society and shapes our existence.
• Purpose: The AMC 8 aims to celebrate the allure of mathematics and kindle excitement for the subject among young minds. Additionally, it serves as an avenue for students to showcase their mathematical prowess and put their critical thinking skills to the test. Many students who excel in the AMC 8 often go on to achieve success in higher-level exams such as the AMC 10, AMC 12, and even the AIME.
• Eligibility: The competition is open to students in grade 8 and below, provided they are under 14.5 years of age on the day of the competition.
• Exam Structure: The AMC 8 features 25 multiple-choice questions to be completed within a 40-minute time limit.

What are the topics covered by AMC 8?

The AMC 8 encompasses a wide array of subjects, including counting and probability, estimation, proportional reasoning, elementary geometry, incorporating the application of the Pythagorean Theorem, spatial visualization, real-world applications, and the interpretation of graphs and tables. In addition, as the exam progresses, it may delve into more advanced concepts such as linear or quadratic functions and equations, coordinate geometry, and other topics typically introduced in the early stages of an algebra course.

The difficulty level of the AMC 8 can vary from year to year but is usually considered appropriately challenging for middle school students. Although students in higher grades(G7-G8) may have a slight advantage, the AMC 8 is still a formidable competition for most participants. Among the AMC series of exams – AMC 8/10/12, the AMC 8 is generally perceived as the least demanding.

To compare the level of difficulty between the AMC 8 and AMC 10, please refer to this article.

Why Participate in the AMC 8?

1. Develop Broader Math and Logical Thinking Skills

In most U.S. middle and high schools, math curricula focus heavily on algebra-based courses like Algebra 1, Algebra 2, and Calculus, with limited exposure to geometry or other branches. However, mathematics goes far beyond algebra—especially in college-level STEM majors, where students are expected to understand statistics, discrete math, programming, and applied mathematics.

Participating in math competitions like AMC 8 helps students build a more well-rounded mathematical foundation, fostering problem-solving and logical reasoning skills that go beyond classroom learning.

AMC 8 is also the entry point for higher-level contests such as AMC 10, AMC 12, AIME, and USA(J)MO, making it an ideal place to begin a competitive math journey.

---

2. Strengthen STEM Credentials for College Applications

In U.S. schools, math classes are generally not very rigorous, and many students can achieve straight A’s through AP-level courses. To stand out in competitive college admissions, especially for STEM programs, students need extra-curricular academic achievements that go beyond grades.

High scores in the AMC series are widely recognized by selective high schools and top-tier universities as evidence of advanced math ability. For example, among students admitted to Harvard, 31% participated in math competitions, making it the second most common academic competition after science fairs.

AMC 8 performance can also help students gain admission to math talent programs, honors classes, and elite summer math camps—all of which enhance a student’s STEM profile.

Who Should Take the AMC 8?

The AMC 8 is a nationally recognized math competition for middle school students, designed to promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It provides an excellent entry point for students who are excelling in math and ready to explore more advanced challenges. Here’s who will benefit the most:

1. Students in Grades 7 and 8 with Strong Math Performance

• If your child consistently performs well in school math and enjoys solving challenging or multi-step problems, the AMC 8 offers a valuable opportunity to deepen their skills.
• No prior contest experience is required, making it an ideal first step into competitive mathematics.

2. Younger Students with Advanced Math Ability

• If your child is in Grade 6 or below, excels in math for their grade, or has experience with early contests like Math Kangaroo or Math League, AMC 8 can provide the next level of challenge.
• The contest allows younger, advanced learners to tackle higher-level questions and build early confidence in competition settings.

3. Students Preparing for Advanced Math Contests or STEM-Focused Schools

• The AMC 8 is more than just a test—it serves as a foundation for students aiming to participate in AMC 10, AIME, MATHCOUNTS, and other advanced competitions.
• AMC 8 scores are recognized by top private schools, STEM magnet programs, and selective math summer camps, making it a valuable part of an academic portfolio.

4. Students Interested in STEM Majors or Careers

• Top colleges look for students who demonstrate more than strong grades—they value problem-solving, perseverance, and mathematical thinking.
• Contests like the AMC 8 showcase a student’s ability to apply math in unfamiliar contexts, a trait valued in fields like engineering, computer science, statistics, and data science.

Whether your child is passionate about math, exploring future academic options, or preparing for long-term success in STEM, the AMC 8 provides a meaningful, accessible starting point in competitive math.

How to Register for AMC 8

Registration Process in the U.S.

In the United States, students and parents cannot register for the AMC 8 directly. Instead, registration must go through a school or organization officially approved as an AMC test center. These centers purchase exam seats from the Mathematical Association of America (MAA) and handle student registration and proctoring.

Since 2023, AMC 8 has returned to in-person testing with two formats:

• Paper-based exams
• Computer-based exams

All exams must be proctored by a qualified teacher or administrator on-site.

Think Academy as an Official Test Center

Since 2021, Think Academy has served as an official AMC testing site, hosting multiple successful AMC 8 and AMC 10 sessions. Our team is experienced in providing structured, supportive test-day environments for students.

If there is no Think Academy location near you, use the official AMC search tool to locate a nearby test center: Find an AMC Testing Site by ZIP Code (Note: The search tool will be available during the active registration period.)

Registration for International Students

For students outside the United States, AMC exams are offered through authorized regional partners. Families should contact their country’s official AMC coordinator to register.

What are the important dates of 2026 AMC 8?

⭐ 2026 AMC 8 Competition Dates: January, 2026

The exact date for the 2026 AMC 8 has not yet been released. Please check back regularly for updates!

⭐ 2026 AMC 8 Registration Dates for Individuals (Think Academy Test Centers): Late September 2025 – January 2026

The registration deadlines may vary by test center. To find a test center near you, please click here (You can search for available test centers once the AMC registration period begins.). If you plan to register at a Think Academy Test Center, be aware that registration will close two weeks before the exam begins. To register for the 2026 AMC 8 proctored at a Think Academy Test Center (Cupertino, Fremont, Bellevue, Manhattan, and more), please visit the AMC 8 page on the Think Academy website in late September for details.

⭐ 2026 AMC 8 Registration Dates for Organizations: The exact date for the 2026 AMC 8 has not yet been released. Please check back regularly for updates!

Registration Type	Deadline
Early Bird Registration	October, 2025
Regular Registration	December, 2025
Late Registration	January, 2026

⭐ Preparation Period: AMC 8 exam preparation traditionally begins about six months before the test date. During this preparatory period, students usually adopt a structured approach, honing their skills in various knowledge modules relevant to the AMC 8.

What is the AMC 8 scoring system? 

The AMC 8 consists of 25 questions to be completed in a 40-minute time limit, with a maximum achievable score of 25 points. The scoring rules are as follows:

• Correct answers earn 1 point.
• Incorrect answers receive 0 points.
• Leaving a question blank also earns 0 points.

Notably, there’s no guessing penalty on the AMC 8. Hence, students should consider a different approach than on the AMC 10. For the AMC 8, attempting uncertain questions can be advantageous, as guessing may lead to correct answers and improve scores. 

AMC 8 Awards Explained: Scoring Criteria and Significance

The AMC 8 offers multiple award levels to recognize students’ mathematical achievement and problem-solving excellence. These awards are often used as academic credentials for future competitive programs.

1. Certificate of Achievement (AR Award)

• Eligibility: Score of 15 or higher
• Grade limit: Grade 6 and below
• Significance:
  • Encourages early participation in math contests
  • Helps build experience for AMC 10 and other advanced competitions

2. Honor Roll

• Eligibility: Score typically between 17–20
• Awarded to: Top 5% of participants
• Significance:
  • Demonstrates strong math fundamentals and problem-solving skills
  • Recognized by math talent programs, academic summer camps, and enrichment classes
  • Common first milestone for future AIME qualifiers

3. Distinguished Honor Roll

• Eligibility: Score typically 21 or higher
• Awarded to: Top 1% of participants worldwide
• Significance:
  • Indicates exceptional math ability on a national or global scale
  • Strengthens applications to elite private schools, STEM pathways, and competitive summer programs
  • Many recipients go on to qualify for AIME and USA(J)MO

What are the AMC 8 cut-off scores?

AMC 8 Cut-Off Scores	Distinguished Honor Roll (Top 1%)	Honor Roll (Top 5%)	Average Score
2025	23	19	10.75
2024	22	18	10.75
2023	21	17	10.26
2022	22	19	9.69
2020	21	18	10

Between 2020 and 2025, Distinguished Honor Roll (DHR) scores ranged from 21 to 23, while Honor Roll (HR) scores fluctuated between 17 and 19. The average score consistently hovered around 10 ± 0.75 points, with the highest recorded in 2024 & 2025 at 10.75.

One contributing factor to this shift is the increasing overall difficulty of the AMC 8 exam. Our analysis categorizes problems into three levels: easy (typically Q1 – Q15), medium (typically Q16 – Q20), and hard (typically Q21 – Q25). In 2025, the AMC 8 saw a slight decrease in difficulty, featuring no trick questions or topics beyond the standard curriculum. The exam focused primarily on solid foundational knowledge and fair problem-solving skills.

To look into the past trend analysis of AMC 8, please refer to our article: “2024 AMC 8: Problem Breakdown and Detailed Solutions.“

What is a good AMC 8 score? 

The definition of a “good” AMC 8 score can be relative and depends on your goals and the specific difficulty level of the exam for that year. Drawing from historical cut-off scores spanning from 2020 to 2025, the following general benchmarks can offer some guidance:

• If a student aims for the Distinguished Honor Roll (DHR), a score surpassing 21 (inclusive) would signify a notable achievement.
• For those targeting the Honor Roll (HR), a score around 18 typically denotes a strong performance.

However, it’s essential to recognize that the perception of a “good” score can vary, and it’s vital to establish objectives that align with your individual abilities and aspirations.

The students of Think Academy US achieved remarkable success in the 2025 AMC 8 competition with many earned spots on the Achievement Roll, Honor Roll, and Distinguished Honor Roll. Adding to the excitement, 25 exceptional students achieved perfect scores!

2025 AMC 8 Award	Cutoff Score	Think Academy Student Number
AR (G6 and below)	15	359
HR	18	220
DHR	22	68
Perfect Score	25	25

672 students from Think Academy US received awards in the 2025 AMC 8…

Moreover, AMC 8 award winners from Think Academy US increased exponentially from 2022 to 2025, marking historical highs, and we’re expecting the numbers to grow in 2026.

How can you prepare for AMC 8?

Achieving success in the challenging AMC 8 exam requires a strategic approach focused on mastering all the covered topics. Effective preparation for the AMC 8 involves creating a clear timeline and following a structured five-step process:

• Step 1: Set Your Goal
• Step 2: Give Mock Exams a Try
• Step 3: Follow a Systematic Study Plan
• Step 4: Keep Practicing
• Step 5: Conquer Tough Problems

Here’s How Think Academy Can Help

In the past 3 years, Think Academy has nurtured over 1,000 AMC award-winning students. This year, as the AMC 8 exam preparation season approaches, we offer a comprehensive selection of resources and courses designed to fully prepare AMC 8 participants and help them aim for awards!

To access AMC 8 past official exam problems and solutions, take mock exams online, enroll in a trial lesson with a free 1-on-1 evaluation, and stay updated on upcoming AMC 8 prep courses delivered by Think Academy’s top math competition teachers, please visit the Think Academy AMC 8 page. 

Learn More

Think Academy AMC 8 Prep Timeline: Prep Courses, Mock Exams & Webinars

Month	AMC 8 Prep Courses	AMC 8 Mock Exams & Webinars
May	AMC 8 Modular Courses: – Geometry – Number Operations – Word Problems
June	– AMC 8 Real Exam Practice Course (June)	📝 AMC 8 Mock Exam 1
July	– AMC 8 Real Exam Practice Course (July)
August	* Fall Semester Long-Term Courses for Elementary and Middle School Students: Laying a Strong Foundation for AMC 8	📝 AMC 8 Mock Exam 2
September	* Fall Semester Long-Term Courses for Elementary and Middle School Students: Laying a Strong Foundation for AMC 8	🖥️ Webinar: 2026 AMC 8 Preparation: Everything You Need to Know to Win an Award 📝 AMC 8 Mock Exam 3 🖥️ Webinar: AMC Experience Sharing from IMO Gold Medal Coach & IMO Participants
October	– AMC 8 Achievement Roll Camp (October) – AMC 8 Honor Roll Camp (October)	🖥️ Webinar: AMC 8 Registration Guidance 📝 AMC 8 Mock Exam 4 🖥️ Webinar: AMC 8 Deep Dive and Analysis
November	– AMC 8 Achievement Roll Camp (Nov. – Dec.) – AMC 8 Honor Roll Camp (Nov. – Dec.) – AMC 8 Real Exam Practice Course (Nov. – Dec.)	📝 Mock Exam 5
December	– AMC 8 Achievement Roll Camp (Nov. – Dec.) – AMC 8 Honor Roll Camp (Nov. – Dec.) – AMC 8 Real Exam Practice Course (Nov. – Dec.) – AMC 8 Distinguished Honor Roll Camp (Dec. – Jan.)	Webinar: Intensive Last-Stretch Preparation
January	AMC 8 Distinguished Honor Roll Camp (Dec. – Jan.)	📝 AMC 8 Mock Exam 6 🖥️ Webinar: Pre-Exam Preparation
February		Webinar: Post-Exam Analysis & 2027 AMC 8 Planning
March	* Spring Semester Long-Term Courses for Elementary and Middle School Students: Laying a Strong Foundation for AMC 8
April	* Spring Semester Long-Term Courses for Elementary and Middle School Students: Laying a Strong Foundation for AMC 8

* Think Academy’s long-term programs (Challenge/Competition) encompass all the knowledge concepts assessed in the 2025 AMC 8, with similar questions elucidated during the classes. Our short-term AMC-themed competition track classes cover 92% of them, with two problems deemed overly easy and thus not included.

Check this page for the most recent AMC 8 questions and solutions.

On-Demand Webinars:

• Basic Information on the AMC 8 Math Competition
• AMC 8 Key Knowledge Points
• Information Webinar: Deep Dive on the AMC 8 Math Competition

Related Articles:

• 2024 AMC 8: Problem Breakdown and Detailed Solutions
• Unveiling Achievement: Think Academy 2023-2024 Math Competition Report
• A Rising Star: Conquering the Leap from AMC 8 Achievement Roll to AMC 10 Honor Roll
• How Hard is AMC 10 in Comparison to AMC 8 and In-School Math?

To stay updated on the AMC 8, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter.