What is the Average Score on the AMC Math Competition?

The AMC math contests are tough on purpose. They’re not like regular school tests—you’re meant to be stretched and challenged. So, what do the average AMC math scores usually look like?

• AMC 8: around 10–12 out of 25
• AMC 10: around 58–62 out of 150
• AMC 12: around 56–62 out of 150

Surprised? Most students get less than half the problems right—and that’s totally normal. The AMC isn’t about perfection; it’s about growth. 

Average Scores of the AMC

Understanding the average scores on AMC contests helps students and parents see where most participants land and what it takes to stand out. Here’s how the numbers typically break down:

AMC 8 Average Scores

The AMC 8 has 25 questions to be solved in 40 minutes. The national average is usually 10–12 out of 25.

• Above average: 15+
• High achievers: 18+ (Honor Roll)
• Top scorers: 22+ (Distinguished Honor Roll, top 1%)

These averages give middle schoolers a realistic benchmark while also showing what’s possible with practice.

AMC 10 Average Scores

The AMC 10 has 25 questions worth 6 points each, for a total of 150 points. The national average falls around 58–62 points.

• Above average: 100+
• AIME cutoff: usually 95–105, depending on the year

This shows that even if you’re around the average, moving into the 100+ range makes you competitive on a national scale.

AMC 12 Average Scores

The AMC 12 is similar in structure to the AMC 10, but the questions are harder and cover advanced topics like trigonometry and complex numbers. The national average is slightly lower, at 55–65 points.

• Strong performance: 100+
• AIME cutoff: usually 75–88 points, about the top 15% of scorers

The lower average reflects the difficulty level, but it also shows that with the right prep, students can stand out quickly.

The AMC averages remind us that most students don’t solve every problem—and that’s normal.

What Affects AMC Average Scores?

Ever wonder why the average score on the AMC changes from year to year? It’s not random—several things come into play:

Test Difficulty

Each AMC contest has a brand-new set of problems. Some years, the test feels tougher, so averages drop. Other year,s it’s a bit friendlier, and averages go up.

That’s why it’s important to look at averages in the context of that year’s exam.

Who’s Taking the Test

On the AMC 8, tons of middle schoolers sign up—including many just trying it for the first time. This mix of beginners and advanced students brings the overall average down.

On the AMC 10 and 12, the group is smaller but usually packed with well-prepared high schoolers aiming for the AIME.

Even though the problems are harder, the averages often look steadier (and sometimes higher) because the students are more experienced.

Different Populations = Different Results

• AMC 8: Big variety in skill levels → more score spread and lower averages.
• AMC 10/12: More motivated, contest-prep students → tighter, more competitive averages.

In short, AMC averages depend on difficulty + preparation + who’s in the room.

That’s why comparing scores across years or between the AMC 8, 10, and 12 only makes sense when you also consider these factors—not just the raw numbers

Average Score vs. “Good” Score on AMC

When it comes to the AMC math competitions, the average score tells you how most students perform across the country—it’s the baseline for that year. 

But if you’re asking “what’s a good score?”, the answer goes a little further.

• AMC 8 → About 18+ is considered strong and often lands you on the Honor Roll.
• AMC 10 → Scoring 95–105+ usually means AIME qualification.
• AMC 12 → Hitting 75+ points is a sign you’re competing at a high level.

But here’s the key: AMC success isn’t just about chasing numbers. A good score can also mean:

✔️ Doing better than you did last time
✔️ Solving a problem you once found impossible
✔️ Growing more confident in your math skills

With consistent practice and the right strategies, students naturally move from “average” territory to national recognition—one step at a time. 

FAQs on Average AMC Scores

🔹 What is the average AMC 8 score?

The average AMC 8 score is usually around 10.5–12 out of 25. Scoring 15+ is above average, 18+ earns a spot on the Honor Roll, and 22+ places you in the Distinguished Honor Roll (top 1% nationally).

🔹 What is the average AMC 10 score?

The AMC 10 average typically falls between 58 and 62 points out of 150. A “good score” is around 100+ points, and the AIME cutoff often ranges between 95–105 points depending on the year.

🔹 What is the average AMC 12 score?

On the AMC 12, the average score is about 55–65 points out of 150. Students scoring 75–88+ points usually qualify for the AIME, placing them in roughly the top 15% nationally.

🔹 What AMC score qualifies for AIME?

The AIME cutoff changes each year with exam difficulty. Typically:

• AMC 10: around 95–105 points.
• AMC 12: around 75–88 points.

🔹 Is 100 a good score on AMC?

Yes—100+ points on AMC 10 or 12 is very competitive. It often means you qualify for the AIME and may also earn a place on the Honor Roll or Distinguished Honor Roll. On AMC 8, a strong score is usually 18+.

Conclusion

AMC averages show where most students land, but your real success comes from growth and problem-solving skills. Keep practicing, aim higher each time, and enjoy the challenge—scores will follow naturally.