How MATHCOUNTS Works

MATHCOUNTS heightens student interest in math by making achievement as challenging, exciting and prestigious as a school sport.

At the beginning of the school year, MATHCOUNTS provides a complimentary School Handbook to every middle school across the state.

Teachers and volunteers use these 300 problems and activities to coach student Mathletes as part of in-class instruction or in extracurricular math clubs. After several months of coaching, schools select students to compete individually or as part of a team in written and oral competitions.

Local competitions are held throughout the state in February, with winners progressing to the state competition in March.

Teachers tell us that the two-day state competition, which includes an overnight hotel stay, is a real motivating factor for students. MATHCOUNTS pays for meals and rooms for both students and coaches.

Results at the state competition determine the top four individuals and top coach who earn the honor of representing Minnesota at the national finals.

At all levels, MATHCOUNTS challenges students’ math skills, develops their self-confidence and rewards them for their achievements.