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.
New Zealand
Years 2-12
Individual
Challenge
90 Minutes
Duration
Singapore
Mathematics
AT A GLANCE
90
minutes
Competition duration
31
questions
Across three sections
100
points
Total available
score
2-12
Years
New Zealand eligibility
Individual
Individual
challenge
Performance Report
Issued to all participants
WHAT IS SMC?
Singapore Math Challenge (SMC) is an international mathematics competition for students in New Zealand Years 2-12. It is an open-entry challenge, with no qualifying round required.
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SMC assesses more than routine calculation. Students apply mathematical knowledge, recognise patterns, reason logically and solve increasingly non-routine problems across a structured 90-minute paper.
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The competition also provides students with an external benchmark. Participants receive an online performance report designed to show their results across different mathematical topics and compare their performance with students in the same grade and country or territory.
DIVISIONS AND ELIGIBILITY
SMC papers are offered to students in New Zealand Years 2-12.
Each New Zealand year level is matched to the corresponding Singapore Grade 1-11 paper.
CALCULATOR POLICY
Grade 4 and below
Calculators are not permitted
Grade 5 and below
Calculators are permitted
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
Every SMC participant receives recognition for their achievement. Awards are determined by overall performance within the relevant grade level, with a special award presented to students who achieve full marks.
The official award categories listed in the supplied information pack are Perfect Score, Exemplary, Outstanding, Commendable, Honorable Mention and Certificate of Participation.
Exemplary Award
Top 8%
Note: Award categories and final thresholds are determined after the competition.
Outstanding Award
next 12%
Commendable Award
next 20%
Honorable Mention
next 10%
Participation Certificate
all remaining participants
PROGRESSION BEYOND SMC
Singapore Math Global Finals (SMGF) is a separate, qualification-based competition for high-achieving students worldwide.
SMGF is not based on participation alone.
Students must meet the current qualification criteria.
Dates, fees and registrtion arrangements are managed separately.
CURRENT SMC OPPORTUNITIES IN NEW ZEALAND
Confirmed details for the current New Zealand competition cycle:
27
Sep 2026
SUNDAY
Competition Date
Sunday 27 September 2026
Registration Deadline
Friday 18 September 2026
Delivery Format
Remote online
Competition Type
Individual challenge
Eligibility
NZ Years 2-12 (SG Grades 1-11)
Registration Method
School-managed or Parent-managed
INFORMATION FOR SCHOOLS
Schools may coordinate entries for eligible students in New Zealand Years 2-12. Current round information, paper level guidance and guidance and registration instructions are available.
WHY PARTICIPATE?
Develop strong problem-solving skills
Build confidence in mathematics
Benchmark against international peers
Enhance analytical and logical thinking
Support academic growth and success