AMC 8, 10, 12 Dates, Format, and Scoring Rules (2025 Guide)

If you are planning to sit for the AMC this year, you probably already know that each contest has its own rhythm, quirks, and a bit of legend. The AMC 8 feels like a first handshake with contest math. The AMC 10 and AMC 12 are more like stepping onto the real playing field. Whether your goal is an AIME qualification or just testing yourself against something unfamiliar, understanding the structure early will make your preparation far more effective.

For the official competition calendar, see MAA registration page and keep it bookmarked. Forgetting a registration deadline is one of the most avoidable mistakes in contest prep.

AMC 8 in 2025

The AMC 8 was held earlier this year from January 21 to January 27. It is designed for students in grade 8 or below and often becomes their first story in the "math contest scrapbook." Some students walk away thinking it was fun. Others walk away thinking they should have skipped fewer questions. Both are correct.

The format is short but sharp. There are 25 multiple choice questions to be solved in 40 minutes, covering pre-algebra, basic geometry, number theory, and logic. Calculators are not permitted.

Scoring is straightforward. Each correct answer earns one point. Incorrect or blank answers receive zero points. The maximum score is 25. Top scorers earn a spot on the Honor Roll or Distinguished Honor Roll. Students in grade 6 or below who score 15 or higher receive a Certificate of Achievement.

If you missed this year's AMC 8, there is no need to panic. It will be back in January. Use the extra time to work through AMC 8 practice materials. Getting used to the pacing now means you will not spend the first ten minutes of the contest just warming up.

AMC 10 and AMC 12 in 2025

The AMC 10 and AMC 12 are scheduled for this fall. The AMC 10 is for students in grade 10 or below. The AMC 12 is for students in grade 12 or below. These contests are the main gateway to the AIME, which is the main gateway to the USA Mathematical Olympiad, which is the main gateway to the sort of bragging rights you can still bring up ten years later at a reunion.

The dates are:

• AMC 10A and AMC 12A: November 5, 2025
• AMC 10B and AMC 12B: November 13, 2025

You may take one version or both, but not both versions of the same level. AMC 10A with AMC 12B is allowed. AMC 10A with AMC 10B is not. Contest veterans will tell you this rule prevents "double dipping" on the same difficulty level.

The format is identical for both contests. There are 25 multiple choice questions with a 75 minute limit. No calculators. The AMC 10 covers material through Algebra II. The AMC 12 includes topics up to precalculus.

Scoring works like this. Six points for a correct answer. One and a half points for a blank. Zero for an incorrect answer. The highest possible score is 150.

A strong score on either contest can qualify you for the AIME. The cutoff changes each year depending on difficulty and performance. It usually falls between 100 and 110. For historical numbers, see historical cutoff data.

Final Thoughts

The earlier you internalize the rules and structure, the more energy you can devote to problem solving when it matters. Think of the AMC as a sport. You need to know the rules, practice under real conditions, and review your results.

At Math Prep Pro, we offer timed practice tests, topic-specific analytics, and worked solutions so your training is structured and measurable. Whether you are aiming for your first AIME qualification or just want to test your problem-solving skills, now is the time to start.

Stay consistent. Refine your approach. Treat each contest as both a challenge and a lesson. If you qualify for the AIME this year, enjoy the victory. If you miss it by one question, remember that every math contest veteran has at least one story that starts that way.

Kevin Scott Math Instructor & Co-Founder of MPP

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