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Mathematics

Singapore Math Challenge

(SMC)

A 90-minute mathematics challenge for students in New Zealand Years 2-12, combining core mathematical knowledge with the increasingly non-routine problem solving.

CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES

SMC 2026

Format
Remote online
Registration Deadline (NZ Time)
18 September 2026 at 11:00:00 am
Eligible Years
NZ Years 2-12

Nationwide

Competition Date (NZ Time)
27 September 2026 at 6:00:00 am
Location
Nationwide

Course Information

Optional preparation courses or resources for this round (if available)

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  • Singapore Math Challenge

    Singapore Math Challenge (SMC) is an international mathematics competition designed to assess how well students understand and apply mathematical ideas. It combines familiar curriculum-based questions with increasingly non-routine problems that require logical reasoning, pattern recognition and multi-step problem solving.


    In New Zealand, SMC is available to students in Years 2–12, using the corresponding Singapore Grade 1–11 papers. The competition is open-entry, so students do not need previous Olympiad experience or a qualifying result to participate.


    The 90-minute paper contains 31 questions across three sections, for a total of 100 points. Participants receive an award outcome and an online performance report that analyses their results across mathematical topics and benchmarks their performance against students in the same grade and country or territory.

  • SMC gives students an accessible opportunity to experience international-level mathematics without requiring an Olympiad background. It helps students:

    • apply school mathematics in unfamiliar situations;

    • strengthen logical reasoning and non-routine problem-solving skills;

    • build confidence and concentration in a timed assessment;

    • identify mathematical strengths and areas for further development;

    • receive an external benchmark and performance report;

    • gain recognition through awards and certificates; and

    • explore possible progression to further mathematics competitions.

  • SMC is suitable for students who:

    • are currently enrolled in New Zealand Years 2–12;

    • enjoy mathematics, puzzles, patterns or problem solving;

    • would like to try an international mathematics competition;

    • want to assess their current mathematical understanding;

    • are not yet ready for a highly selective Olympiad;

    • would benefit from structured feedback on their performance; or

    • are looking for a first step into academic competitions.

    It is suitable for a broad range of students, not only highly experienced competition mathematicians.

  • Students do not need intensive Olympiad training to participate. Preparation should focus on becoming comfortable with the competition format and strengthening core mathematical reasoning.


    Recommended preparation includes:

    • reviewing the syllabus for the correct paper level;

    • practising the official sample questions;

    • revising key school-level mathematical concepts;

    • working on number patterns, diagrams and multi-step word problems;

    • practising without a calculator where calculators are not permitted;

    • completing mixed questions under timed conditions;

    • checking working carefully and managing time across all three sections; and

    • becoming comfortable moving from routine questions to more challenging non-routine problems.


    Students should aim to understand why a method works rather than memorising isolated techniques. The sample questions in the information pack show a progression from visual patterns and basic arithmetic to geometry, algebra, statistics and extended problem solving.

  • SMC is a 90-minute individual mathematics challenge worth 100 points.


    Section A

    • 15 multiple-choice questions

    • 2 points for each correct answer

    • 30 points in total

    Section B

    • 10 non-routine questions

    • 4 points for each correct answer

    • 40 points in total

    Section C

    • 6 non-routine questions

    • 5 points for each correct answer

    • 30 points in total

    Unanswered questions receive zero points. The supplied information pack does not state that incorrect answers receive negative marks.


    Calculators are not permitted for Singapore Grades 1–4, corresponding to New Zealand Years 2–5. Calculators are permitted from Singapore Grade 5 onwards, corresponding to New Zealand Years 6–12.

  • SMC recognises students through the following official award categories:

    • Perfect Score Award

    • Exemplary Award

    • Outstanding Award

    • Commendable Award

    • Honorable Mention

    • Certificate of Participation

    The 2026 international information pack shows the following award distribution:

    • Exemplary Award — top 8%

    • Outstanding Award — next 12%

    • Commendable Award — next 20%

    • Honorable Mention — next 10%

    • Certificate of Participation — remaining participants

    Students who achieve full marks receive a Perfect Score Award.


    These percentages describe the distribution presented in the international information pack and should not be interpreted as fixed New Zealand score thresholds. Final cut-offs may vary according to overall performance. All participants are also stated to receive an online performance report.

  • SMC can provide a pathway to Singapore Math Global Finals (SMGF), which is a separate, qualification-based competition.


    Students must meet the current SMGF eligibility criteria and complete a separate registration process. Participation in SMC alone does not automatically register a student for SMGF, and SMGF dates, fees, delivery arrangements and qualification requirements are managed separately.


    Current New Zealand progression information should be checked through the official SMGF pathway page. The supplied 2026 pack identifies SMC as one of the competitions through which students may qualify for SMGF.

  • Students do not need intensive Olympiad training to participate. Preparation should focus on becoming comfortable with the competition format and strengthening core mathematical reasoning.


    Recommended preparation includes:

    • reviewing the syllabus for the correct paper level;

    • practising the official sample questions;

    • revising key school-level mathematical concepts;

    • working on number patterns, diagrams and multi-step word problems;

    • practising without a calculator where calculators are not permitted;

    • completing mixed questions under timed conditions;

    • checking working carefully and managing time across all three sections; and

    • becoming comfortable moving from routine questions to more challenging non-routine problems.


    Students should aim to understand why a method works rather than memorising isolated techniques. The sample questions in the information pack show a progression from visual patterns and basic arithmetic to geometry, algebra, statistics and extended problem solving.

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