AIME
The American Invitational Mathematics Examination, by invitation for top AMC 10/12 scorers. 15 problems with integer answers in 3 hours.
Grade Levels
Grades 8-12 (Ages 13-19)
Format
Short Answer · 15 questions · 3 hours
Scoring
Each answer is an integer from 000 to 999. 1 point per correct answer, maximum 15.
Participants
~10,000
February
AIME I and AIME II held in February
Registration
By invitation based on AMC 10/12 scores
Prizes & Recognition
Certificates. Combined AMC+AIME score determines USAMO/USAJMO qualification.
About This Competition
The American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME) is an invitation-only competition for the top ~5% of AMC 10 and AMC 12 scorers. It features 15 problems to be solved in 3 hours, where each answer is an integer from 000 to 999.
The AIME is significantly more difficult than the AMC competitions. Problems require creative problem-solving across algebra, geometry, number theory, and combinatorics. The combined AMC + AIME score determines qualification for USAMO (USA Mathematical Olympiad) or USAJMO (USA Junior Mathematical Olympiad).
How to Prepare
Master Integer Answer Problem Techniques
AIME answers are always integers from 000 to 999. Practice spotting patterns, using modular arithmetic, and verifying answers through multiple approaches.
Prioritize Problems 1-10
AIME problems roughly increase in difficulty. Problems 1-10 are the most scoreable. A score of 7-8 correct out of 15 can qualify for USAMO when combined with AMC scores.
Use AoPS AIME Problem Archive
Art of Problem Solving hosts every past AIME problem with detailed community solutions. Work through them chronologically to see how problem styles evolve.
Every Problem Is Solvable — Find the Key Insight
AIME problems are designed to be solvable with pre-calculus math. If your approach involves heavy computation, step back and look for a cleaner method.
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