The Math Kangaroo Competition, one of the world's largest youth mathematics contests, saw global participation surpass 6.3 million in 2025. This article provides a detailed analysis of key rules and strategies for the competition process to help candidates avoid mistakes and maximize their performance.
I. Exam Day: Process and Time Management
1. Exam Schedule
The Math Kangaroo Competition is divided into different levels by grade, with exams conducted in two sessions:
| Student Grade | Competition Level | Exam Date | Specific Time | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grades 1-2 | Level A | March 28, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM | 75 minutes |
| Grades 3-4 | Level B | March 28, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM | 75 minutes |
| Grades 5-6 | Level C | March 28, 2026 | 10:00 AM - 11:15 AM | 75 minutes |
| Grades 7-8 | Level D | March 28, 2026 | 2:00 PM - 3:15 PM | 75 minutes |
| Grades 9-10 | Level E | March 28, 2026 | 2:00 PM - 3:15 PM | 75 minutes |
| Grades 11-12 | Level F | March 28, 2026 | 2:00 PM - 3:15 PM | 75 minutes |
Key Timelines:
System login for device setup is available 30 minutes before the exam starts.
Latecomers will be unable to enter the system 15 minutes after the exam begins.
Early submission is not allowed. After finishing, students must remain in place until the exam ends.
II. Equipment and Environmental Monitoring Requirements
1. Device Configuration and Monitoring Setup
The competition uses online proctoring with strict device requirements.
Exam Equipment and Environmental Monitoring Requirements
| Device Type | Specific Requirements | In-Exam Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Main Exam Device | Computer with webcam (Google Chrome recommended) | Ensure the webcam captures the student's face, hands, and screen throughout. |
| Proctoring Device | Mobile phone/tablet (with Tencent Meeting or Zoom installed) | Place at a 45-degree angle behind and to the side; the view must cover the exam environment. |
| Network | Bandwidth no less than 20Mbps (independent fiber optic recommended) | Have a backup network (e.g., mobile hotspot) ready in case of interruption. |
| Exam Environment | No other person within 3 meters | No drinking, eating, leaving the seat without permission, or significant movement. |
Blocking the camera during the exam is strictly prohibited. Leaving the camera's view without permission will be considered a violation. For younger candidates (Grades 1-2), parents may assist with setup but must leave the room once the exam starts.
III. Answering Strategies and Time Allocation
1. Question Structure and Scoring Rules
All questions are multiple-choice, but the number of questions and points differ by level.
Level A-B (Grades 1-4): 24 questions, 120 points total.
Q1-8: 3 points each (Basic)
Q9-16: 4 points each (Intermediate)
Q17-24: 5 points each (Challenging)
Level C-F (Grades 5-12): 30 questions, 150 points total.
Q1-10: 3 points each (Basic)
Q11-20: 4 points each (Intermediate)
Q21-30: 5 points each (Challenging)
The competition uses a starting score mechanism (24 points for lower levels, 30 points for higher levels). An incorrect answer deducts 1 point, while no answer deducts 0 points. This design encourages rational answering and discourages blind guessing.
2. Efficient Answering Techniques
Time Allocation Strategy:
| Question Type | Recommended Time | Answering Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Questions (Lower: Q1-8; Higher: Q1-10) | 30% of total time | Answer quickly and accurately to secure basic points. |
| Intermediate Questions (Lower: Q9-16; Higher: Q11-20) | 40% of total time | Maintain a steady pace, read carefully, mark uncertain questions. |
| Challenging Questions (Lower: Q17-24; Higher: Q21-30) | 30% of total time | Prioritize easier ones within this set, make reasonable choices, avoid over-spending time. |
Practical Answering Tips:
Option Analysis: If stuck, try plugging the answer choices back into the problem, especially for complex calculations.
Diagram Assistance: For abstract problems, visualize conditions by drawing diagrams or making tables.
Extreme Value Test: Substitute the smallest or largest numerical option to quickly assess reasonableness.
Categorized Marking: For shape-counting problems, count by size/type to avoid repetition or omission.
IV. In-Exam Discipline and Violation Handling
1. List of Prohibited Behaviors
The competition has strict rules. The following will result in invalidated scores:
Using Prohibited Items: Calculator, mobile phone (except proctoring device), smartwatch (even if powered off), etc.
Receiving Assistance: Presence of others, whispering/conversing, receiving help in any form.
Consulting Materials: Having formula notes on scratch paper (cheating even if not looked at), consulting any materials.
Camera Anomalies: Leaving the camera's view, black screen for over 5 minutes, blocking the camera.
Special Note: During the exam, you cannot ask the proctor any exam-related questions. Any doubts must be communicated after the exam ends.
V. Strategies for Handling Unexpected Situations
Even with good preparation, issues may arise.
In-Exam Unexpected Situation Handling Guide
| Situation | Response Measures | Prevention Advice |
|---|---|---|
| Network Interruption | Immediately switch to backup network, re-login within 5 minutes. | Test network stability beforehand, prepare mobile hotspot. |
| Device Malfunction | Log in using a backup device; the exam timer does not pause. | Check device battery, close unrelated apps before the exam. |
| System Crash | Log back into the system; answers are usually saved. | Avoid switching screens, close pop-ups, screen savers, etc. |
| Environmental Disturbance | Remain silent and continue; report the incident afterward. | Choose a quiet environment, inform family not to disturb. |
VI. Mindset Adjustment and Important Notes
1. Psychological Adjustment Strategies
There is no "passing score." Aim to gain experience.
Pre-Exam: Ensure adequate sleep, eat light meals, avoid nervousness.
During Exam: Skip difficult problems decisively; ensure accuracy on basic questions.
Time Check: Monitor progress every 15 minutes to ensure completion rate matches the goal.
2. Special Notes
Grades 1-2 Candidates: Can fully utilize the Chinese audio read-aloud feature, but must test audio equipment beforehand.
Higher-Grade Candidates: Note that later questions have higher point values; allocate time reasonably.
All Candidates: Answers cannot be modified after submission; consider carefully before answering.
The Math Kangaroo Competition tests not only mathematical ability but also rule awareness, adaptability, and psychological resilience. By understanding in-exam considerations, planning answer strategies wisely, and maintaining a calm mindset, every student can showcase their best at this global mathematical feast.