What Exactly is an International Math Olympiad?
- January 17, 2023

Mathematical olympiads are competitive events where participants aim to complete a series of maths problems or a test. These tests may require multiple choice or numeric answers, or a detailed written solution or proof. In some countries the term ‘math olympiad’ refers to all maths competitions, while in others, including the United States, it refers only to proof-based maths competitions.
These competitions, held at esteemed institutions around the world, provide an ideal platform to showcase mathematical skills and compete with peers globally. The subject matter and problems are meticulously designed to test creativity, ingenuity, and mathematical reasoning skills, often challenging students to find elegant and insightful solutions. It is worth noting that although these olympiads test a student’s mettle, one need not be a genius to participate. In fact, the theme for Pi Day 2023 was “Mathematics for Everyone!”, reflecting CourseLeaps’ belief in inclusive learning.
International math olympiads have played a key role in promoting cooperation and understanding among students and educators from around the world. These events depend upon international collaboration and cross-cultural consideration, as they attract passionate students from all around the world to engage in problem solving.
Each year, thousands of students participate in these olympiads to increase their skill and competency in the subject, and to develop abilities that are beneficial for their further studies. These international contests have helped foster a love for mathematics among students, and have inspired many young mathematicians to pursue careers in STEM and related fields!
Not only does participation in olympiads encourage careers in STEM, but mathematical courses like the American Math Competitions (AMC) program equip students with the skills required for success in jobs such as problem-solving, deliberation, and teamwork. Many jobs today require competence in computing, statistics, numerical analysis, and applied mathematics, making programs and coursework in those areas relevant for years to come.
So… which math olympiads can you train for at CourseLeap?
There are a variety of international math olympiads that students can enrol for depending on their interest and ability! CourseLeap offers a variety of these courses that effectively prepare students to crack the final exam. Contests that we help students prepare for include:
- The American Math Competition (AMC 8, AMC 10, AMC 12), for grades 7-12
- The Centre For Education in Mathematics & Computing (CEMC), University of Waterloo, for grades 7 to 12
- The American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME), for grades 8 to 12
- Several major Asian math olympiads listed below, for grade eight to ten
- Hong Kong International Mathematical Olympiad (HKIMO)
- Southeast Asian Mathematical Olympiad (SEAMO)
- Thailand International Mathematics Olympiad (TIMO)
- Singapore & Asian School Mathematics Olympiad (SASMO)
Our stellar courses have helped students achieve incredible results. Over 40% of our AMC 8 students achieved honours rolls, a distinction awarded to only the top 5% of participants. On average 33% of our students appearing for AMC 10 and 12, get shortlisted for AIME against the global average of 2.5%. 95% of our students secured a Distinction and Distinguished Honor Roll in their respective CEMC contests, and 80% of our students secured remarkable rank, silver and gold medals in Asian Maths Olympiads!
Looking to participate? Click here to find out more about our cutting edge IMO courses!