AMC 12
The senior level of America's AMC series for high school students. One of the oldest math competitions in the US, dating back to 1950.
Grade Levels
Grades 9-12 (Ages 14-19)
Format
Multiple Choice · 25 questions · 75 minutes
Scoring
6 points per correct answer, 1.5 for blank, 0 for wrong. Maximum 150.
Participants
80,000+
Established
1950
November
AMC 12A and 12B held on separate dates in November
Registration
Schools register through MAA
Prizes & Recognition
Certificates. Top ~5% qualify for AIME.
About This Competition
AMC 12 is the senior level of the American Mathematics Competitions, open to students in grade 12 and below. It shares the same format as AMC 10 (25 questions, 75 minutes) but includes more advanced topics including trigonometry, advanced algebra, and precalculus.
The AMC 12 dates back to 1950 (originally the AHSME - American High School Mathematics Examination), making it one of the oldest mathematical competitions in the United States. The top approximately 5% of scorers qualify for the AIME.
How to Prepare
Master Trigonometry and Advanced Algebra
AMC 12 includes trigonometry, logarithms, complex numbers, and precalculus topics not on the AMC 10. Ensure these are solid before competition day.
Know When to Skip a Problem
With penalty scoring, a wrong answer costs more than a blank. If a problem takes more than 4 minutes and you can't eliminate options, move on.
Use AoPS Volume 2 and Past Papers
Art of Problem Solving's Volume 2 covers advanced AMC 12 topics. Supplement with all past AMC 12 papers available on AoPS wiki and their online courses.
Bridge to AIME and USAMO
AMC 12 is the gateway to AIME and eventually USAMO. Treat each practice test as a stepping stone and analyze every mistake to avoid repeating it.
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