IMAS
A major Asia-Pacific math assessment for 200,000+ students across 20+ countries, offering primary and secondary levels with a two-round structure.
Grade Levels
Grades 3-10
Format
Mixed Format
Scoring
Round 1: 15 multiple-choice (4 marks each) + 10 short answer (6 marks each). Round 2: Varies. No prerequisites — any student can sit for any level.
Participants
200,000+
January
Round 1 (late January)
February
Round 2 (February, top qualifiers)
Registration
Through schools or national organizing partners
Prizes & Recognition
Gold, Silver, Bronze certificates. Top performers invited to Round 2.
| Level | Grade Levels | questions | Duration | Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Middle Primary | 3-4 | 25 | 75 minutes | Mixed Format |
| Upper Primary | 5-6 | 25 | 75 minutes | Mixed Format |
| Lower Secondary | 7-10 | 25 | 75 minutes | Mixed Format |
About This Competition
IMAS (International Mathematics Assessment for Schools) is a significant international mathematics assessment organized by the Taiwan Chiuchang Mathematics Foundation in partnership with education ministries across Asia-Pacific. Serving over 200,000 students in 20+ countries, it is one of the largest math assessments in the region.
The assessment offers three levels: Middle Primary (grades 3-4), Upper Primary (grades 5-6), and Lower Secondary (grades 7-10). Each level features 25 questions in a 75-minute session, combining 15 multiple-choice questions (4 marks each) with 10 short-answer questions (6 marks each). There are no prerequisites — any student can register for any level.
IMAS uses a two-round structure: Round 1 in late January is open to all registered students, with top performers qualifying for the more challenging Round 2 in February. This approach provides both broad participation and recognition for top achievers. IMAS is particularly strong in Southeast Asia, with government partnerships in Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, and Malaysia giving it deep institutional support.
How to Prepare
Balance Computation and Reasoning Skills
IMAS tests both computational accuracy and mathematical reasoning. Practice problems that require quick computation as well as those needing creative problem-solving.
Use the Two-Round Structure Strategically
IMAS has a multiple-choice first round and a short-answer second round. Qualify through the first round by focusing on accuracy, then prepare differently for round two.
Access IMAS Past Papers Online
Past IMAS papers are available through the IMAS Foundation website and local organizing committees. Work through problems from multiple years and grade levels.
Compete with Students Across Asia
IMAS connects students from multiple Asian countries. The international perspective on problem-solving can broaden your mathematical horizons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is IMAS?
IMAS (International Mathematics Assessment for Schools) is a large-scale international math assessment organized by the Taiwan Chiuchang Mathematics Foundation in partnership with education ministries in Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, and other countries. It serves 200,000+ students across 20+ countries, primarily in the Asia-Pacific region.
What levels are available for primary students?
IMAS offers two primary school levels: Middle Primary (grades 3-4) and Upper Primary (grades 5-6). Each level has 25 questions mixing multiple-choice and short-answer formats in a 75-minute session. There are no prerequisites — any student can register for any level.
How does the two-round structure work?
Round 1 is held in late January and is open to all registered students. Top-scoring students from Round 1 qualify for Round 2 in February, which features more challenging problems. This creates a natural progression without the pressure of elimination rounds.
Which countries participate in IMAS?
IMAS operates across 20+ countries, primarily in the Asia-Pacific region including Taiwan, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, and others. It has been expanding to include participants from outside Asia as well.
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