# Who Wants to Be a Mathematician

Math competition for HS students. National finals with cash prizes.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | AMS |
| Category | stem |
| Cost | Free |
| Deadline | 2026-09-27 |
| Eligibility | Grades 9–12 |
| Format | Hybrid (in person + online) |
| Location | Check official site |
| Apply | https://www.ams.org/ |

## About this program

**Who Wants to Be a Mathematician**, run by the **American Mathematical Society (AMS)**, is a problem-solving competition for high school students interested in deepening their engagement with mathematics. Participants work through challenging questions that go beyond routine classroom exercises, drawing on algebra, geometry, number theory, and logical reasoning. Top students advance through multiple rounds for a chance to compete in the national finals, where winners can earn **cash prizes** and recognition from a leading professional mathematics organization.

This program is a strong fit for students who enjoy math contests, independent problem-solving, or exploring advanced topics on their own. It can be especially valuable for those considering majors in **mathematics, engineering, computer science, economics**, or other quantitative fields. Participation can demonstrate to colleges that you seek out rigorous academic challenges, are willing to compete at a national level, and can apply mathematical ideas under time and pressure. Students may also use the experience to:

- Strengthen competition-style problem-solving skills  
- Connect classroom math with more advanced concepts  
- Highlight mathematical achievement in college applications and scholarship materials  

Interested students should check the **AMS website** for eligibility guidelines and information on how to participate through their school or regional organizers.

## Frequently asked questions

### How much does Who Wants to Be a Mathematician cost?

Who Wants to Be a Mathematician is completely free — there is no participation fee. Costs like travel or optional materials may still apply; check the official site for details.

### What is the application deadline for Who Wants to Be a Mathematician?

The application deadline is September 27, 2026. Always confirm on the program's official site, as dates can shift between cycles.

### Who is eligible for Who Wants to Be a Mathematician?

Who Wants to Be a Mathematician is open to high school students in grades 9–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is Who Wants to Be a Mathematician online or in person?

Who Wants to Be a Mathematician is a hybrid program with both online and in-person components.

### How do I apply to Who Wants to Be a Mathematician?

Apply directly through AMS's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-04.
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