Competition · format & scoring
How the AMC works
One paper for every grade, built from unique problems that climb in difficulty. Marks rise as the questions get harder — and there’s no penalty for a wrong answer, so every student can attempt every question.
30 questions
The six levels
A paper pitched to every year
Register according to your child’s grade at the time of the competition.
| Level | Grades | Questions | Marks | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pre-A | 1–2 | 25 | 100 | 45 min |
| A | 3–5 | 30 | 135 | 60 min |
| B | 6–7 | 30 | 135 | 60 min |
| C | 8–9 | 30 | 135 | 75 min |
| D | 10–11 | 30 | 135 | 75 min |
| E | 12 | 30 | 135 | 75 min |
How scoring works · Levels A–E
Every question is worth more than the last — 135 marks in all, no penalty for a wrong answer.
Questions 1–10 are worth 3 marks each, 11–20 four marks, 21–25 five marks, and 26–30 are worth 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 marks. (Pre-A is 25 questions for 100 marks.)
Top performers earn national awards by percentile. See awards & past cut-off scores →
What’s tested
Problem-solving across the school syllabus
Questions draw on the maths students already learn — rewarding clear thinking over memorised tricks.
What comes next
The AIMO — an Olympiad pathway
Strong Level C and D students are well placed for the Australian Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad (AIMO): ten proof-based problems over four hours, for students in Grades 7–10. It’s a natural next step for those who enjoy the hardest AMC questions.
Format · FAQ
Questions about the competition
How many questions are there?
Levels A–E have 30 questions for 135 marks. Pre-A (Grades 1–2) has 25 questions for 100 marks.
How long is the exam?
Pre-A runs 45 minutes; Levels A and B run 60 minutes; Levels C, D and E run 75 minutes.
Is there a penalty for wrong answers?
No. Marks are only ever added, so it always pays to attempt every question — including the harder, higher-value ones at the end.
What maths do students need?
The questions use the topics students already study — arithmetic, fractions, algebra, geometry, measurement, statistics and problem-solving — but reward clear reasoning rather than memorised methods.
Can students use a calculator?
The AMC is designed to test reasoning without a calculator. Check your level’s current instructions when you register. How to register →
What awards are available?
Every entrant earns a certificate; national awards (Credit, Distinction, High Distinction, Prize) are given by percentile, and a perfect score earns the Peter O’Halloran Award. Awards & cut-offs →