September 22, 2025
4 min. read
Math contests are held all over the globe, but the one that truly captures the spotlight is the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO).
IMO is known as the Olympics of math, where the world’s brightest students take on brilliantly creative problems that push them to their limits.
On a global stage with legendary challenges and a storied history, the IMO is more than a competition; it’s your chance to see just how far you can take your love for math and problem-solving.
What Makes a Math Competition “the Best”?
A truly great math competition is defined by four key factors:
- Global participation: The best contests, like the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO), attract students from over 100 countries.
- Level of difficulty: Top competitions feature creative, proof-based problems in algebra, geometry, number theory, and combinatorics that go beyond classroom math.
- Prestige and recognition: History, rigor, and reputation give contests like the IMO unmatched status and influence.
- Opportunities: Success in elite competitions can lead to scholarships, advanced training, and admissions advantages at top universities.
For students, parents, and educators, contests like the IMO aren’t just exams; they’re your chance at a life-changing experience.
“If you’re in the U.S., learn about how to qualify for the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO).
The International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO): The Gold Standard
The International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO), founded in 1959 in Romania, is the oldest and most prestigious international mathematics Olympiad.
It began with seven countries and has grown into a global contest with 100+ nations across five continents.
Each year, students tackle six proof-based problems over two days (4.5 hours per session), testing not just knowledge but creativity, logic, and rigorous proof-writing.
Success gives you recognition, scholarships, and STEM opportunities but the real win is how it strengthens your thinking, resilience, and passion for math.
Simply put, the IMO is the pinnacle of high school math competitions, combining history, scale, rigor, and unmatched prestige.
Other Prestigious International Math Competitions
While the IMO is the pinnacle, several other global contests also stand out:
- Asian Pacific Mathematics Olympiad (APMO) – Founded in 1989, this four-hour, five-problem exam challenges top students under 20 across the Asia-Pacific region, including the U.S.
- European Girls’ Mathematical Olympiad (EGMO) – Aimed at encouraging young women in math, EGMO mirrors the IMO format and has become a leader in promoting gender diversity in high-level contests.
- China Girls Math Olympiad (CGMO) – Another prestigious female-focused contest, CGMO nurtures mathematical talent through collaboration and rigorous problem-solving.
- International Kangaroo Mathematics Contest (IKMC) – With over 6 million participants in 80+ countries, IKMC is the world’s largest math contest, offering fun and accessible multiple-choice challenges across grade levels.
You can also explore the American Mathematics Competitions (AMC) to see how they compare globally. For younger students, the Math Kangaroo is another excellent option.
Quick Comparison
| Competition | Scale | Target Students | Difficulty |
| IMO | 100+ countries | Top global high school students | Very high (6 proof problems) |
| APMO | Asia-Pacific | Top students under 20 | High (5 proof problems) |
| EGMO | International | Female high school students | High (IMO-style) |
| CGMO | Primarily China + partners | Female high school students | High |
| IKMC | 80+ countries, 6M+ participants | All grade levels | Moderate (multiple choice) |
By their scale, inclusivity, and problem-solving depth, these contests enrich the math world and create opportunities for you to push your limits and stand out.
Why the IMO Stands Out as the Best?
The International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO) is unmatched in prestige, scale, and difficulty.
Since its founding in 1959, it has grown to include 100+ countries, becoming the world’s premier stage where you, as a high school mathematician, can shine.
Over two days, participants face six problem-based problems in algebra, geometry, number theory, and combinatorics, testing not just knowledge but also creativity and rigorous reasoning.
The IMO has shaped future leaders, and even Fields Medalists started here. For you, it’s the ultimate reward after years of preparation: the highest honor in pre-university math.
In short, the IMO is the gold standard of math competitions where you prove just how far your problem-solving can go.
Who Should Participate in Math Competitions?
Math competitions are open to students at every stage:
- Middle school: Contests like the AMC 8 or International Kangaroo Math Contest help younger students explore problem-solving and build confidence.
- High school: Passionate problem solvers can take the AMC 10/12, AIME, USAMO, and eventually the IMO, developing proof-writing skills and preparing for STEM pathways.
- College: Undergraduates can test their abilities in the Putnam Competition, one of the toughest university-level contests.
The key is choosing competitions that fit your age and skill level.
When you begin with accessible contests and gradually take on harder ones, you set yourself up for steady growth, confidence, and long-term success in math.
Conclusion:
The IMO is the world’s top math contest, but math competitions are about more than medals.
They help you grow as a thinker, build confidence, and find joy in problem solving. Each contest is a step toward a deeper love of mathematics.
