Category: Blog

The AMC 10 is open to students in grades 9 and 10, as well as students with outstanding AMC 8 scores.

2. Competition Language
Bilingual in Chinese and English.

3. Test Format
75 minutes answering time, maximum score of 150 points, consisting of 25 multiple-choice questions. Focuses on high school mathematics.

4. Scoring Rules
Each correct answer earns 6 points. Each unanswered question receives 1.5 points, and each incorrect answer receives 0 points. The maximum score is 150 points.

5. Schedule

US Region (US Time)

	AMC 10 A	AMC 10 B
Early Registration Deadline	September 30, 2025	September 30, 2025
Regular Registration Deadline	October 15, 2025	October 15, 2025
Late Registration Deadline	October 28, 2025	October 28, 2025
Exam Date	November 5, 2025	November 13, 2025

China Region

	AMC 10/12 A	AMC 10/12 B
Registration Deadline	October 27, 2025	November 4, 2025
Exam Date	November 6, 2025, 17:00-18:15 (Thursday)	November 14, 2025, 17:00-18:15 (Wednesday)
Score Inquiry	6-8 weeks after the competition
Download Electronic Certificate	6-8 weeks after the competition

6. AMC10 Participant Awards

① New awards for the 2025 season:
▸ New Top 10% Honor Roll (Global Top 10%)
▸ New Top 25% Honor Roll (Global Top 25%)

② Original awards remain unchanged

Global Individual Awards:
Perfect Scores: Students who achieve a perfect score of 150 points.
AMC 10/12 Honor Roll of Distinction: Global top 1% of scores.
AMC 10/12 Distinction: Global top 5% of scores.
AMC 10 Certificate of Achievement: Grade 8 and below students who score 90 points or above on the AMC 10.
AMC 12 Certificate of Achievement: Grade 10 and below students who score 90 points or above on the AMC 12.

Global Team Awards:
School Honor Roll: Sum of the top 3 students' scores in the school is ≥400 points.
School Merit Roll: Sum of the top 3 students' scores in the school is between 300 and 399 points.

Certificates:
AMC 10 Participation Certificate
AMC 10 Honor Roll of Distinction
AMC 10 Honor Roll
AMC 10 Certificate of Achievement
AIME Qualification Certificate

AMC10 Historical Cutoff Scores

AMC10	Honor Roll of Distinction	Certificate of Distinction	AIME cutoff	TOP 10%	TOP 25%
2025	A卷 136.5	112.5	105	94.5	69
	B卷 133.5	105	99	87	66

AMC10	Honor Roll of Distinction	Certificate of Distinction	AIME cutoff
2024	A卷 132	105	94.5
	B卷 138	114	105
2023	A卷 136.5	111	103.5
	B卷 135	112.5	105
2022	A卷 121.5	100.5	93
	B卷 114	100.5	94.5
2021(Fall)	A卷 117	96	96
	B卷 120	96	96
2021(Spring)	A卷 132	103.5	103.5
	B卷 126	102	103.5

AMC10 (2012-2020)	Honor Roll of Distinction	AIME cutoff
2020 AMC10 A	124.5	103.5
2020 AMC10 B	120	102
2019 AMC10 A	123	96
2019 AMC10 B	121.5	102
2018 AMC10 A	127.5	100.5
2018 AMC10 B	123	97.5
2017 AMC10 A	127.5	112.5
2017 AMC10 B	136.5	120
2016 AMC10 A	120	110
2016 AMC10 B	124.5	110
2015 AMC10 A	115.5	106.5
2015 AMC10 B	132	120
2014 AMC10 A	132	120
2014 AMC10 B	132	120
2013 AMC10 A	117	108
2013 AMC10 B	129	120
2012 AMC10 A	121.5	115.5
2012 AMC10 B	133.5	120

AMC10 Preparation Courses

Our instructors are graduates from top global universities. With precise curriculum planning and comprehensive learning tracking, we ensure your score improvement and award-winning success!

Class Type	Hours	Class Size	Start Date
Winter Break Class	30H	3–8 students	Consult teacher for details
Systematic Course	20H	1v1 / 3–8 students	Consult teacher for details
Problem-Solving Class	20H	1v1 / 3–8 students	Consult teacher for details

I. AMC 10 Question Analysis and Goal Setting

Basic Questions [Questions 1-8]
Characteristics: Relatively low difficulty, mainly testing basic algebra, geometry, and number theory problems.
Strategy: Ensure accuracy and speed, strive to get all correct to leave more time for subsequent questions.

Relatively Easy Questions [Questions 9-13]
Characteristics: Slightly more difficult, with small traps, requiring careful reading.
Strategy: Stay alert, avoid losing points due to carelessness, try not to lose points.

Medium Difficulty Questions [Questions 14-17]
Characteristics: Have a certain level of difficulty, especially for students in grade 8 and below; this is a key area to conquer.
Strategy: Aim to get at least 15 correct out of the first 17 questions to secure the Global Honor Roll.

Relatively Difficult Questions [Questions 18-23]
Characteristics: Involve advanced concepts such as quadratic functions, similar triangles, probability and statistics, which are key to widening the score gap.
Strategy: For the goal of AIME qualification and the global top 5%, these need to be focused on and intensively trained.

Difficult Questions [Questions 24-25]
Characteristics: The truly difficult area, testing deep mathematical knowledge and talent for thinking.
Strategy: Suitable for students aiming for a perfect score or the global top 1%; focus on problem-solving skills and experience accumulation.

II. AMC 10 Preparation Strategies by Grade Level

Grade 7 Students
Goal: Ensure that in-school math grades are consistently above 90 points and master the core knowledge points of middle school mathematics. If you have experience participating in the AMC 8, you can gradually transition to the AMC 10.
Time Planning: Foundation Learning (50 hours): Systematically review knowledge points, including algebraic equations, geometry basics, etc. Consolidation and Improvement (30 hours): Strengthen understanding through topic-specific training, such as algebraic transformations, geometric proofs, etc. Sprint Practice (20 hours): Simulate the exam environment, complete past papers under timed conditions, and improve problem-solving speed.
Specific Tasks: Practice basic algebra problems daily (e.g., solving equations, ratio calculations), and complete 1 set of geometry problem training per week.

Grade 8 Students
Goal: Consolidate in-school knowledge, deeply study AMC 10 test points, and accumulate test-taking experience. Focus on conquering high-frequency test points such as geometric proofs, number theory models, and combinatorial counting.
Time Planning: Knowledge Reinforcement: Conduct targeted breakthroughs on weak areas, completing 10 algebraic transformation problems daily and 3 sets of geometry proof problems weekly. Past Paper Simulation: Complete 2 full past papers weekly, strictly timed at 75 minutes, and analyze the reasons for losing points on the last 5 questions.
Specific Tasks: Practice algebra problems daily, conduct geometry proof training weekly, and regularly review mistakes.

Grade 9 Students
Goal: Balance the pressure of the high school entrance exam (Zhongkao) / track transfer and competition preparation, use holidays to preview high school math courses, and build knowledge reserves for the AMC 10.
Time Planning: Before the Zhongkao: Focus on in-school knowledge, spend 30 minutes daily practicing low-to-medium difficulty AMC 10 questions. After the Zhongkao: Intensively practice, focusing on breaking through difficult areas such as summation of sequences, solid geometry, probability calculations, etc.
Specific Tasks: Before the Zhongkao, practice low-to-medium difficulty questions daily; after the Zhongkao, intensively break through high-difficulty question types. Establish a mistake notebook and review regularly.

Grade 10 Students
Goal: This is the last opportunity to take the AMC 10. Through extensive simulation and past paper training, identify weak points and carry out targeted reinforcement.
Time Planning: Mock Exam Sprint: Complete 10 high-difficulty questions daily under timed conditions to maintain a feel for the exam. You may also participate in an AMC 10 sprint class for focused and efficient review. Mistake Review: Establish a mistake notebook, regularly review high-frequency error question types, and summarize problem-solving approaches.
Specific Tasks: Complete high-difficulty questions daily under timed conditions, regularly participate in mock exams, review mistakes, and optimize problem-solving strategies.

AMC10 Preparation Courses

Our instructors are graduates from top global universities. With precise curriculum planning and comprehensive learning tracking, we ensure your score improvement and award-winning success!

Class Type	Hours	Class Size	Start Date
Winter Break Class	30H	3–8 students	Consult teacher for details
Systematic Course	20H	1v1 / 3–8 students	Consult teacher for details
Problem-Solving Class	20H	1v1 / 3–8 students	Consult teacher for details

I. In-Depth Interpretation of the 2025 AMC 10 Cutoff Trends

Goal	Score Required	Answering Requirements	Practical Challenges
AIME Qualification (Top 2.5% Globally)	≥100–105 points	- All of first 15 questions correct - 3 correct among questions 16–20 - Total incorrect ≤5 questions	The 2025 Version B cutoff of 99 points for qualification, but the margin for error is only 5 questions.
Global Top 5% (Honor Roll)	≈108–112 points	- ≤2 incorrect among first 20 questions - Attempt and get 1–2 correct among questions 21–25	Requires stability on intermediate questions plus tackling some difficult questions.
Global Top 1% (Distinguished Honor Roll)	≥130 points	- ≤1 incorrect among first 20 questions - 3–4 correct among questions 21–25	The ability to tackle difficult questions becomes the key to victory.

II. The Four Core Modules of AMC 10

The content of the AMC 10 focuses on four major areas. In recent years, the proportion of Combinatorics and Number Theory has increased, while the integration of Algebra and Geometry has deepened.

Module	Proportion	High-Frequency Topics	2025 Difficulties & Trends
Algebra	≈30%	- Quadratic equations and inequalities - Function graphs and transformations - Sequences (recursion/periodicity) - Polynomial factorization	More comprehensive questions combining functions and geometry (e.g., trigonometric functions + circles).
Geometry	≈25%	- Similar/congruent triangles - Power of a Point theorem, Ptolemy's theorem - Trigonometric ratios and area formulas - Solid geometry (volume/cross-section)	Auxiliary line construction is more concealed; frequency of solid geometry problems ↑.
Number Theory	≈20%	- Prime factorization - Modular arithmetic and congruences - Fermat's Little Theorem - Chinese Remainder Theorem (advanced)	Cross-topic problems combining Number Theory and Combinatorics are frequent (e.g., integer partitions + counting).
Combinatorics	≈25%	- Permutations and combinations (with constraints) - Inclusion–Exclusion Principle - Recurrence relation modeling - Conditional probability and expectation	The difficulty of recurrence modeling problems has surged, requiring abstract thinking.

III. 2026 AMC 10 Four-Stage Scientific Preparation Plan

Stage 1: Foundation Consolidation Period (From now until June 2026)

Goal: Build a complete knowledge framework and complete the leap from middle school to high school mathematical thinking.

Module	Core Tasks
Algebra	Master function graph transformations, solving quadratic inequalities, deriving general terms for arithmetic/geometric/recursive sequences.
Geometry	Proficiently add auxiliary lines (e.g., drawing altitudes, connecting midpoints, completing shapes), master the application scenarios of the Power of a Point theorem.
Number Theory	Understand the essence of modular arithmetic (a ≡ b mod m ⇔ m | (a - b)), grasp the fundamental properties of congruence.
Combinatorics	Distinguish between permutations and combinations, master the Inclusion–Exclusion Principle formula: |A∪B| = |A| + |B| − |A∩B|.

Stage 2: Ability Enhancement Period (July 2026 – August 2026)

Goal: Break through high-frequency difficult points, develop problem-solving intuition, and improve speed and accuracy.

Topic-Specific Breakthrough Checklist:

Algebra: Polynomial factorization techniques, comprehensive problems combining functions and geometry.

Geometry: Complex similarity models (e.g., "double perpendicular," "common side ratio"), solid geometry cross-section construction.

Number Theory: Solving congruence equations (e.g., 3x ≡ 1 mod 7), applying Fermat's Little Theorem (a^(p−1) ≡ 1 mod p).

Combinatorics: Recurrence modeling (e.g., staircase climbing problems), conditional probability (P(A|B) = P(A∩B)/P(B)).

Timed Training Standards:

Question Range	Time	Goal
1–10	≤15 minutes	100% accuracy, no calculation errors
11–20	≤35 minutes	Accuracy ≥80%, focus on practicing cross-module problems
21–25	≤25 minutes	Develop strategy: prioritize Combinatorics/Geometry; Number Theory difficult problems can be strategically skipped.

Stage 3: Past Paper Mock Exam Period (September 2026 – November 2026)

Goal: Adapt to the exam pace, expose knowledge blind spots, and optimize time allocation.

Complete 1–2 full past paper mock exams per week (2021–2025 papers), strictly timed at 75 minutes.

Spend double the exam time on review: record the time spent on each question to identify "time sinks"; categorize mistakes: knowledge gaps? calculation errors? misreading of the problem? Return to topic-specific training to address weak areas.

Stage 4: Sprint and Adjustment Period (December 2026 – Before the Exam)

Goal: Solidify answering strategies, enhance stress resistance, and ensure peak performance.

Develop a personalized schedule:
0–15 min: Complete questions 1–10 (review once before turning the page)
15–50 min: Tackle questions 11–20 (mark uncertain questions)
50–75 min: Focus on questions 21–25 (start with those you have a clue about).

Establish a checklist:
Are the units consistent? (e.g., cm vs m)
Are you answering the question asked? (e.g., calculating area but being asked for perimeter)
Did you bubble in the answer sheet correctly?

For more information about AMC 10/12 competition courses, please contact us.

AMC10 Preparation Courses

Our instructors are graduates from top global universities. With precise curriculum planning and comprehensive learning tracking, we ensure your score improvement and award-winning success!

Class Type	Hours	Class Size	Start Date
Winter Break Class	30H	3–8 students	Consult teacher for details
Systematic Course	20H	1v1 / 3–8 students	Consult teacher for details
Problem-Solving Class	20H	1v1 / 3–8 students	Consult teacher for details

I. Three Core Dimensions of AMC 10 Value

1. Official Recognition by Top Global Universities

MIT, Stanford, Caltech, Carnegie Mellon, etc., have dedicated fields for entering AMC/AIME scores in their undergraduate application systems. Admissions officers view scoring in the top 2.5% of AMC 10 (approximately 120+ points) or achieving AIME qualification as:

Hard evidence of mathematical talent

Demonstration of independent learning and stress management abilities

Predictive indicator for success in advanced STEM courses

2. High Regard from UK G5 Universities

Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, when admitting students to majors in Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, etc.:

Use AMC 10/12 scores as strong supporting evidence for the Personal Statement (PS)

High-scoring students are often asked about their competition problem-solving approaches in interviews, showcasing their depth of logic

3. A Tool for "Snatching Up" Students by Top Domestic Middle Schools and Universities

Elite schools such as RDFZ, Shanghai High School, Shenzhen Middle School, and No.1 Middle School Affiliated to CCNU:

Use high AMC 10 scores (e.g., ≥120) as a basis for waiving written exams, adding interview bonus points, or giving priority admission in selections for Technology Talents, Qiuzhen (Yau) Science Classes, and the Strong Base Program

Some international departments list AMC 10 Honor Roll as a criterion for scholarship assessment

II. Three Key Reminders for AMC 10 Preparation

1. Calculation Ability is the Foundation

Calculators are not allowed in the AMC 10; all calculations must be done by hand. Common point-loss areas include: sign errors, mistakes in simplifying fractions, and carelessness with squares and square roots. It is recommended to do 10 speed calculation problems daily (such as factoring and simplifying radicals) to improve accuracy and speed.

2. Methods > Quantity of Problems Solved

The last 5 questions (21–25) are rarely solved by "routine" methods; they require flexible use of:

Constructive methods (e.g., constructing counterexamples, auxiliary functions)

Case analysis (especially in combinatorics and number theory)

Reverse thinking (backtracking from answer choices, testing extreme cases)

Avoid blind problem-solving: focus on summarizing "general solutions for a class of problems."

3. Seek Professional Guidance Reasonably

Self-study can easily lead to "knowledge blind spots" or "inefficient repetition." A good coach can help by:

Organizing the unique problem-solving models of AMC 10 (e.g., "simplifying with symmetry," "reducing dimensions with modular arithmetic")

Pinpointing weak modules

Simulating the real exam rhythm and pressure

III. Efficient Past Paper Practice Strategies for AMC 10

Version A vs. Version B: How to Choose?

Version	Characteristics	Suitable For
Version A	• Emphasizes application of foundational knowledge • More "straightforward" questions • Slightly larger calculation load	Average foundation, first-time participants
Version B	• More flexible and abstract • Some questions require deep reasoning • Stronger leaps in thinking	Aiming for high scores, those with competition experience

Suggestion: Start with Version A for a baseline assessment, then use Version B to challenge your thinking limits.

Four-Step Scientific Practice Method

Step 1: Full Mock Exam (Start in Winter Break)

Choose past papers from the last 5 years (e.g., 2021–2025), strictly timed to 75 minutes. Purpose: Understand the true difficulty, expose knowledge gaps, and develop a personalized plan.

Step 2: Module-Specific Intensive Practice

Categorize past papers into seven modules for targeted training:

Algebra → Focus on polynomials, function graphs

Geometry → Strengthen auxiliary lines, area methods

Number Theory → Break through congruences, factor analysis

Combinatorics → Master addition/multiplication principles, path counting

Step 3: Summarize Question Patterns

Statistics on high-frequency topics from the last 10 years:

Module	High-Frequency Question Types
Algebra	Extrema of quadratic functions, integer solutions of equations
Geometry	Similar triangles, power of a point theorem
Number Theory	Prime factorization, last digits
Combinatorics	Coloring problems, recurrence relations

Organize solution templates: e.g., "Combinatorics → Step-by-step analysis → Enumerate boundaries → Verify."

Step 4: Closed-Loop Mistake Management

Create a digital or paper mistake notebook, recording:

Cause of error (calculation? reasoning? misreading?)

Correct solution + key techniques

Links to similar problems

Re-do the mistake questions weekly. Remove them from the notebook only after two consecutive correct attempts, ensuring thorough mastery.

For more information about AMC 10/12 competition courses, please contact us.

AMC10 Preparation Courses

Our instructors are graduates from top global universities. With precise curriculum planning and comprehensive learning tracking, we ensure your score improvement and award-winning success!

Class Type	Hours	Class Size	Start Date
Winter Break Class	30H	3–8 students	Consult teacher for details
Systematic Course	20H	1v1 / 3–8 students	Consult teacher for details
Problem-Solving Class	20H	1v1 / 3–8 students	Consult teacher for details

I. Detailed Explanation of High-Frequency AMC 10 Topics (by Module)

The AMC 10 consists of 25 questions with a stepwise difficulty increase: Questions 1–10: Basic Questions (curriculum extensions), Questions 11–20: Intermediate Questions (requiring technique and synthesis), Questions 21–25: Difficult Questions (competition-level thinking, often testing number theory/combinatorics). The following are the seven core modules and their key test points, based on an analysis of past five years' past papers:

1. Comprehensive Algebra
Core content: Quadratic functions, equations and inequalities, sequences, polynomials, multiplication formulas, and identity transformations.
High-frequency difficulties: Polynomial divisibility problems; simplification of symmetric expressions; substitution methods; constructing equations.
Advice: At least 6–8 questions in the first 15 are from algebra—key to securing your score!

2. Functions and Coordinate Geometry
Core content: Properties of linear/quadratic function graphs; equations of circles; coordinate transformations; area calculation of polygons.
Problem-solving tools: Shoelace formula (quickly calculates the area of any polygon); Pick's theorem (area of lattice polygon A = I + B/2 - 1).
Note: Function questions are often combined with geometry and appear in the 16–22 question range.

3. Comprehensive Plane Geometry
Core content: Triangles, quadrilaterals and polygons, trigonometric functions.
Area methods: Partition-complement method, equal-area transformation, common side theorem.
Key skills: Drawing auxiliary lines (e.g., altitudes, midpoints, constructing similar shapes); recognizing hidden conditions (e.g., "isosceles triangle," "right angle").
Tip: Geometry questions often appear in the 10–20 range and are key for differentiating scores in the middle segment.

4. Circles and Solid Geometry
Core content: Circle properties: inscribed angles, chord-tangent angles, perpendicular chord theorem, intersecting chords theorem; Solid geometry: Volume and surface area of rectangular prisms, prisms, cylinders, cones; Euler's formula (V - E + F = 2, occasionally seen in challenging problems).
Difficulties: Spatial visualization ability (especially for solid net diagrams); multiple points concyclic on a circle; angle transformation.
Trend: In recent years, circle problems have placed greater emphasis on comprehensive application, often combining trigonometry and algebra.

5. Combinatorics
Core content: Addition principle and multiplication principle; permutations (ordered) vs. combinations (unordered); special models: path counting, coloring problems, round-robin tournament systems.
Common errors: Double counting or omissions; considering order or not (e.g., "select 3 people to form a team" vs. "select 3 people to sit in a row").
Techniques: Drawing tree diagrams, case analysis, reverse exclusion (inclusion–exclusion principle).

6. Probability and Statistics
Core content: Classical probability (equally likely events); geometric probability (ratio of length/area/volume); conditional probability ("given that… find…" type problems); expected value (occasionally seen in recent years).
High-frequency scenarios: Rolling dice, drawing cards, random walks, game outcomes.
Key point: Conditional probability is a frequent guest in difficult problems (e.g., 2023 AMC 10B Question 24).

7. Number Theory
Core content: Divisibility, congruences, digit problems, parity, floor function [x], defined new operations.
Typical position: Appears frequently in questions 21–25, key to distinguishing the top 1%!
Difficulty: Requires flexible problem transformation (e.g., converting "last two digits are the same" to a congruence modulo 100 problem).

II. How Long Does It Take to Prepare for the AMC 10? – Planning Based on Foundation and Target Score

Student Type	Math Foundation Characteristics	Recommended Preparation Cycle	Core Tasks
Weak Foundation	No systematic junior high competition training; high school algebra/geometry not completed	6–12 months	1. Supplement core junior high competition topics (number theory/combinatorics) 2. Complete high school compulsory 1–2 3. Begin AMC 10 topic-specific training
Average Foundation	Completed high school curriculum; some competition exposure	3–6 months	1. Strengthen the four major AMC 10 modules 2. Categorized practice with past papers (focus on questions 1–20) 3. Build problem-solving templates
Solid Foundation	Award in AMC 8/junior high league competition; comprehensive high school knowledge	1–3 months	1. Focus on difficult questions 21–25 2. Summarize high-frequency techniques (e.g., symmetry, extreme principle) 3. Timed mock exams to maintain proficiency

Preparation Depth Based on Target Score

Target	Score Range	Required Ability	Recommended Cycle
Experience Participation	70–90 points	Master the first 15 basic questions	1–3 months
Top 25% (AIME Threshold)	95–110 points	Stably complete the first 20 questions, some of questions 21–23	3–6 months
Top 5% (Honor Roll)	≥120 points	Comprehensive mastery of all modules, ability to solve questions 24–25	6–12 months
Top 1% (Distinguished Honor Roll)	≥135 points	Competition-level thinking, high speed and accuracy	8–12+ months of long-term accumulation

For more information about AMC 10/12 competition courses, please contact us.

AMC10 Preparation Courses

Our instructors are graduates from top global universities. With precise curriculum planning and comprehensive learning tracking, we ensure your score improvement and award-winning success!

Class Type	Hours	Class Size	Start Date
Winter Break Class	30H	3–8 students	Consult teacher for details
Systematic Course	20H	1v1 / 3–8 students	Consult teacher for details
Problem-Solving Class	20H	1v1 / 3–8 students	Consult teacher for details

I. AMC 10 Score Requirements for Different Award Goals

1. Applying to U.S. Top 30 Universities

Suggested Score: 120+ points. Top institutions like MIT and Stanford prefer students with AMC 10 scores of 135 or higher. Scoring in the top 2.5% (approximately 120+ points) or achieving AIME qualification is considered a significant academic achievement that can greatly enhance application competitiveness.

2. Planning to Apply for Mathematics/Computer Science Majors

Suggested Score: 130+ points. Mathematics and computer science majors are highly competitive; high scores better demonstrate students' logical thinking and problem-solving abilities. DHR (Distinguished Honor Roll, top 1% globally) typically requires 130+ points, proving both academic strength and the ability to handle complex problems.

3. Applying for Scholarships

Suggested Score: 140+ points. A high score (e.g., 140+) is a significant criterion for receiving full or merit-based scholarships. A score at this level indicates that the student possesses top-tier mathematical literacy and innovation skills, enabling them to stand out globally.

4. Applying to International Schools

Suggested Score: 110+ points. Many international schools (e.g., Beijing Keystone Academy) explicitly state that IBDP applicants with AMC 10 scores ≥ 110 can be exempted from math placement tests and directly enter advanced courses. Entrance exams for schools like Shanghai Guanghua Cambridge and Shenghua Zizhu often include original AMC 10 questions; thus, preparing for AMC 10 helps students become familiar with the style of these admission tests.

II. The Importance of AMC 10 for International Students

1. Alignment with International School Entrance Exams

High Consistency: The question types and difficulty levels of the AMC 10 are highly consistent with the entrance exams of international schools. Examples: Question 9 on the 2023 entrance exam of Shanghai Guanghua Cambridge was exactly the same as Question 19 on the 2023 AMC 10B; 50% of the math questions in Shenghua Zizhu's spring admissions test were original AMC 10 competition problems.

2. Assisting with IB/AL/AP Exam Preparation

High Content Overlap: The knowledge points tested in AMC 10 heavily overlap with the math sections of mainstream international curricula such as IB, AP, and A-Level. Students in grades 6-9 can build a solid foundation by preparing for AMC 10 in advance, clearing obstacles for future in-depth learning. Grade 10 students can use AMC 10 to sharpen their mathematical logic and problem-solving skills, supporting their progress in international coursework.

3. Boosting Applications to Top U.S. and U.K. Universities

Widely Recognized: Prestigious universities such as MIT, Stanford, and Columbia University have dedicated fields for entering AMC 10 scores in their application systems. A top 1% (DHR) score can help students stand out among a sea of applicants and increase their chances of admission.

III. AMC 10 Version A vs. Version B: How to Choose?

1. Overview

Versions A and B: The questions are different, and the exams are held about a week apart. However, the overall difficulty is similar, and the knowledge scope is the same, with only slight differences in focus and style. Score cutoffs are calculated independently, so choosing either version will not put you at a disadvantage in terms of ranking.

2. Specific Differences

Version	Characteristics	Suitable For
Version A	• More "stable," suitable for students with a solid foundation • Basic questions are more direct; cutoffs are typically lower	Students aiming to securely qualify for AIME, or those who want a high score without taking too many risks
Version B	• More "flexible," demands higher creative thinking • Contains more innovative question types in number theory and combinatorics	Students aiming for a very high score or DHR (top 5% globally), with prior competition experience and flexible thinking

3. Version Selection Strategies

Securely Qualifying for AIME: Prioritize Version A, or take both versions A and B. Version A's basic questions are more direct, and the cutoffs are typically lower, making it more favorable for students with a solid foundation. Taking both versions allows you to use your highest score as your final result, significantly increasing your chances of qualification.

Aiming for a Very High Score or DHR: Prioritize Version B. Version B has greater score differentiation; its innovative questions in number theory and combinatorics better showcase strengths, making it easier to stand out in the high-score range.

Transitioning to AMC 12 or Long-Term Preparation: Take Version A for AMC 10 and Version B for AMC 12. If you have a solid foundation, you can use the one-week gap between the two versions to consolidate your AMC 10 basics with Version A, then challenge AMC 12 difficulty. This allows you to secure a strong AMC 10 score while also getting an early taste of higher-level competition pacing.

AMC10 Preparation Courses

Our instructors are graduates from top global universities. With precise curriculum planning and comprehensive learning tracking, we ensure your score improvement and award-winning success!

Class Type	Hours	Class Size	Start Date
Winter Break Class	30H	3–8 students	Consult teacher for details
Systematic Course	20H	1v1 / 3–8 students	Consult teacher for details
Problem-Solving Class	20H	1v1 / 3–8 students	Consult teacher for details

I. Main Differences Between AMC10 Version A and Version B

1. Different Exam Dates

Version A: November 6, 2025 (Thursday) 17:00-18:15 (75 minutes)

Version B: November 14, 2025 (Friday) 17:00-18:15 (75 minutes)

Typically, the AMC10 Version A exam is held about one week earlier than Version B.

2. Slight Differences in Knowledge Point Proportions

Although both versions cover roughly the same knowledge points—Algebra, Geometry, Combinatorics, and Number Theory—their emphases differ. Version A focuses more on mathematical applications and computational problem-solving, while Version B places greater emphasis on a balanced assessment across various mathematical areas.

3. Different Cutoff Scores

The cutoff scores for advancing to AIME do not differ much between Version A and Version B. However, for the top 1% cutoff, there may be significant fluctuations between the two versions.

II. How to Choose Between Version A and Version B?

Take Both Versions: If time permits, it is recommended that students take both the A and B versions. This not only increases the chances of winning an award but also allows you to better prepare for the second exam using the experience gained from the first.

Can Only Take One Exam: It is recommended to register for Version B. This way, after Version A is completed, you can use the actual past paper to familiarize yourself with the question types, thereby increasing your chances of achieving a high score on Version B.

III. How Long Does an Average Student Need to Prepare for AMC10 to Win an Award?

Based on different foundational levels, average students can refer to the following timeline to prepare for AMC10 and gradually improve to reach their award goals.

January to May (Foundation Period)

For students with no prior experience or a weaker foundation, this is a critical period to systematically master the core knowledge points of AMC10. Lower-grade students, in particular, need to supplement and solidify their foundational knowledge.

Goal: Solve over 1,000 foundational problems and establish a mistake notebook.

June to August (Intensive Period)

After mastering the basics, you need to flexibly apply this knowledge to solve complex problems. Achieve this by working through a large number of problems, promptly organizing mistakes, and repeatedly tackling weak areas.

Goal: Work through past papers from 2018 to 2025, summarize problem-solving models, and conquer intermediate-level questions.

September to November (Sprint Period)

This is the final sprint phase. Focus on breaking through key and difficult points, reviewing and organizing knowledge, and repeatedly training on mistakes. Additionally, do not neglect mock exams and time management training.

Goal: Conduct 1-2 full mock exams per week and optimize time allocation.

IV. Preparation Tips

Foundation Period: Systematically learn the four major modules, solve over 1,000 foundational problems, and establish a mistake notebook.

Intensive Period: Work through recent years' past papers, summarize problem-solving models, and conquer intermediate-level questions.

Sprint Period: In the two weeks before the exam, review mistakes, focus on techniques for the final challenging questions, and adjust your answering pace.

V. Competition Module-Specific Breakthrough Tips

Algebra: Master polynomial transformations, Vieta's formulas, mean inequalities, etc. Improve speed in calculation and symbolic derivation.

Geometry: Deeply understand the Power of a Point theorem, similar triangles, solid geometry sections and volume calculations, etc. Practice constructing auxiliary lines.

Number Theory: Strengthen understanding of modular arithmetic and congruences. Master factorization and recursive thinking. Avoid missing cases when using casework.

Combinatorics: Proficiently use the Inclusion–Exclusion Principle and probability modeling. Use extremal principles and recursion to solve complex counting problems.

VI. Answering Strategies

Easy First, Hard Later: Don't dwell on difficult questions; ensure you score points on easy and intermediate-level questions.

Organize Scratch Paper by Sections: Keep steps clear for easy review. For geometry problems, draw diagrams to aid thinking. For number theory problems, first try small numbers to find patterns.

AMC10 Tutoring Courses

Our instructors are graduates of top universities worldwide, providing precise curriculum planning and full-course learning tracking to ensure you improve and win awards!

Class Type	Hours	Class Size	Start Date
Winter Break Class	30H	3–8 students	Consult teacher for details
Systematic Course	20H	1v1 / 3–8 student class	Consult teacher for details
Problem-Solving Class	20H	1v1 / 3–8 student class	Consult teacher for details

For more information about AMC10/12 competition courses, please contact us.