Math Kangaroo
The world's largest mathematics competition with 6 million+ participants in 90+ countries. Multiple-choice format across 6 difficulty levels, emphasizing fun and accessible problem-solving.
Grade Levels
Grades 1-12 (Ages 6-18)
Format
Multiple Choice
Scoring
Questions in three difficulty tiers worth 3, 4, or 5 points. Five answer choices per question. Scoring varies by national chapter (some deduct for wrong answers, some do not).
Participants
6,000,000+ across 90+ countries
Established
1991
March
Third Thursday of March (worldwide Kangourou Day)
Registration
Through national chapter organizations in each country
Prizes & Recognition
Varies by country. Typically includes certificates for all participants, plus prizes and certificates for top scorers.
| Level | Grade Levels | questions | Duration | Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-Ecolier | 1-2 | 24 | 60 minutes | Multiple Choice |
| Ecolier | 3-4 | 24 | 60 minutes | Multiple Choice |
| Benjamin | 5-6 | 30 | 75 minutes | Multiple Choice |
| Cadet | 7-8 | 30 | 75 minutes | Multiple Choice |
| Junior | 9-10 | 30 | 75 minutes | Multiple Choice |
| Student | 11-12 | 30 | 75 minutes | Multiple Choice |
About This Competition
Math Kangaroo (Kangourou sans Frontieres) is the world's largest mathematics competition by participation. Founded in 1991 in France by Andre Deledicq and inspired by the Australian Mathematics Competition, it has grown from 9 participating countries to over 90, serving approximately 6 million students annually.
The competition is held simultaneously worldwide on the third Thursday of March. Students are divided into six levels from Pre-Ecolier (grades 1-2) through Student (grades 11-12). Each paper features multiple-choice questions in three difficulty tiers (3, 4, and 5 points), ensuring that every student can attempt and solve at least some problems.
What makes Math Kangaroo unique is its emphasis on making mathematics joyful. Problems are designed to be creative and puzzle-like, encouraging mathematical thinking rather than memorized procedures. Every participant receives a certificate and usually a small mathematical game or puzzle as a gift.
Each participating country has its own national organization responsible for local administration, translation, and prizes. The international body (AKSF, based in Paris) creates a common problem pool from which national chapters select.
How to Prepare
Practice by Difficulty Level
Math Kangaroo problems are divided into 3-point, 4-point, and 5-point tiers. Master the easier tiers first to secure a solid base score before attempting the hardest problems.
Don't Guess Randomly — Eliminate First
With 5 choices and penalty-free scoring in most levels, strategic elimination is key. Cross out obviously wrong answers to improve your odds on tough questions.
Use the Official Practice Platform
mathkangaroo.org offers past papers, video solutions, and a practice platform. Work through at least 3 years of past papers for your level before the competition.
It's the World's Largest Math Competition
Over 6 million students participate globally. The goal is to make mathematics fun and accessible. Enjoy the experience and celebrate your participation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Math Kangaroo?
Math Kangaroo (Kangourou sans Frontieres) is the world's largest mathematics competition, with approximately 6 million participants in over 90 countries. It was founded in 1991 in France, inspired by the Australian Mathematics Competition.
How do I sign up for Math Kangaroo?
Registration is handled by national chapters in each country. In most cases, schools register students. Check your country's national Math Kangaroo website for specific registration procedures.
When does Math Kangaroo take place?
Math Kangaroo takes place on the third Thursday of March every year, simultaneously worldwide.
What makes Math Kangaroo different from other math competitions?
Math Kangaroo emphasizes making mathematics fun and accessible. Problems are designed to be engaging and puzzle-like, not just calculations. Every participant receives a certificate and usually a small mathematical gift, making it a positive experience regardless of score.
Is Math Kangaroo hard?
Math Kangaroo has graduated difficulty. Each paper has easy questions (3 points), medium questions (4 points), and hard questions (5 points). Most students can solve the easier questions, while the hardest ones challenge even gifted mathematicians.
How many countries participate in Math Kangaroo?
Over 90 countries participate, making it the world's most geographically diverse math competition. Each country has its own national organization that administers the competition locally.
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