All You Need to Know About AMC 12 in 2025

If you love math and want a real challenge, the AMC 12 (American Mathematics Competition) is one of the most important contests you can take in high school.

For many students it’s the gateway to bigger math competitions like the AIME (American Invitational Mathematics Examination) and USAMO (United States of America Mathematical Olympiad), and a strong score can even give your college applications an extra boost.

This guide covers everything you need to know about AMC 12 in 2025: dates, format, scoring, cutoffs, and how to prepare effectively.

What Is the AMC 12?

The AMC 12 is a 25-question, 75-minute multiple-choice exam. It tests problem-solving skills in algebra, geometry, number theory, probability & counting, and even precalculus concepts.

Why Should You Consider the AMC 12?

Your AMC 12 score determines whether you qualify for the AIME (American Invitational Mathematics Examination)—the next step in the competition ladder. From there, you can reach the USAMO (United States of America Mathematical Olympiad) with a strong AIME performance.

These achievements are prestigious and look great on college applications, especially at schools that value mathematical talent.

How Does AMC 12 Scoring Work?

The AMC 12 is scored based on the number of your correct answers and the questions you leave blank.

For each correct answer, you get 6 points. For each blank answer, you get 1.5 points. For each wrong answer, you get 0 points.

The perfect score is 150 points.

AIME Qualification & Cutoffs

Remember we talked about the AIME qualification based on your AMC 12 score? Here are the cutoffs for 2024:

• The AMC 12A cutoff: 76.5
• The AMC 12B cutoff: 88.5

👉 Tip: Even if the test feels tough, don’t give up mid-exam. Cutoffs often drop in harder years.

From AIME to USAMO

Your AMC 12 score combined with your AIME score determines your USAMO index.

USAMO Index = AMC 12 Score + (10 × AIME Score)

Below are the USAMO index thresholds for 2025:

For example, if you score 120 on the AMC 12 and 13 on AIME I, your USAMO index is 250, which is high enough to qualify.

If you'd like to know where you stand, you can Take a free AMC 12 practice test.

AMC 12 Dates in 2025

• AMC 12A: November 5, 2025
• AMC 12B: November 11, 2025

You can register for the AMC 12 through the MAA.

FAQs About AMC 12

• What’s the difference between AMC 12 A and AMC 12 B? The AMC 12A and AMC 12B are two different versions of the same exam, given about a week apart each year.
• What’s the difference between AMC 10 and AMC 12? AMC 10 is for 10th grade and below; AMC 12 goes up to 12th grade and includes topics like logarithms and trigonometry.
• Can I take both in the same year? Yes, if you’re eligible for both.
• Should I guess? Skip unless you can confidently eliminate at least two choices.
• How many students qualify for the AIME? Roughly the top 2.5% each year.
• Do colleges care? Absolutely. Top universities recognize AMC/AIME/USAMO accomplishments.

Practice Makes Perfect

Like anything else, the more you practice with AMC exam-style questions, the better you’ll get.

Take a free AMC 12 practice test