UKMT Intermediate Mathematical Challenge
The UK's intermediate-level math challenge for students aged 13-16, with 200,000+ participants annually.
Grade Levels
Grades 9-11 (Ages 13-16)
Format
Multiple Choice · 25 questions · 60 minutes
Participants
200,000+
February
Held in February
Registration
Schools register through UKMT
Prizes & Recognition
Gold, Silver, Bronze certificates. Follow-on: Intermediate Kangaroo, Cayley/Hamilton/Maclaurin Olympiads.
About This Competition
The Intermediate Mathematical Challenge (IMC) targets students in Years 9-11 (ages 13-16) and draws over 200,000 participants. It bridges the gap between the Junior Challenge and the Senior Challenge, featuring problems that require more sophisticated mathematical reasoning.
Top performers qualify for the Intermediate Kangaroo or one of three Intermediate Olympiad papers: Cayley (Year 9), Hamilton (Year 10), or Maclaurin (Year 11).
How to Prepare
Bridge the Gap from Junior to Senior
Intermediate Challenge requires stronger algebra and geometry. Practice with problems involving simultaneous equations, circle theorems, and combinatorial counting.
Read Each Question Twice
Many mistakes at this level come from misreading the question. Take 10 seconds to re-read and identify exactly what is being asked before solving.
Use UKMT Mentoring and Challenge Books
UKMT publishes books of past Intermediate Challenge problems with solutions. The UKMT Mentoring Scheme provides monthly problem sheets for deeper exploration.
Kangaroo and Olympiad Follow-On Rounds
Strong performers qualify for the Intermediate Kangaroo or the more selective Intermediate Mathematical Olympiad (Cayley/Hamilton/Maclaurin). These are excellent growth opportunities.
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