As February 2026 arrives, the registration window for the new Math Kangaroo Competition is open. As one of the world's largest youth mathematics competitions, the Math Kangaroo Competition attracts students worldwide with its unique fun and thought-provoking nature.
This article systematically introduces the registration methods, competition rules, and preparation strategies for the 2026 Math Kangaroo Competition, helping you complete registration smoothly and prepare fully.
I. Competition Overview
The Math Kangaroo Competition is a global youth mathematical thinking challenge originating from Australia. As of 2025, it has been held in 103 countries and regions worldwide, with approximately 6 million student participants annually. Compared to other math competitions, Kangaroo questions are more life-oriented, emphasizing fun and application, aiming to stimulate students' interest and confidence in mathematics.
The competition is for all students from Grades 1 to 12, divided into 6 difficulty levels according to grade, from lower primary to high school.
II. Detailed Registration Methods
The Math Kangaroo Competition does not support direct individual registration. Candidates must participate through the following channels.
1. Registration Channels Summary
| Registration Method | Applicable Condition | Procedure | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| School Group Registration | The candidate's school is a cooperating test center. | Submit registration materials uniformly through the school teacher. | Need to confirm if the school is an officially certified test center. |
| ASDAN Mini Program | School is a cooperating test center. | WeChat search "ASDAN International STEM Assessments" mini-program to complete registration. | Prepare student's basic info in advance; fill in grade accurately. |
| Official Website | School is a cooperating test center. | Visit www.seedasdan.org/mk/ for online registration. |
Save the registration confirmation promptly. |
2. Registration Timeline
According to the current schedule, the registration deadline for the 2026 Math Kangaroo Competition is March 7, 2026. The exam date is set for March 28, 2026 (Saturday). Candidates are advised to prepare in advance to avoid missing the opportunity due to incomplete materials or system congestion near the deadline.
III. Competition Rules
1. Competition Level Division
The competition is divided into six difficulty levels based on the student's grade.
| Level | Corresponding Grade | Number of Questions | Total Points | Starting Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A | Grades 1-2 | 24 | 120 | 24 |
| B | Grades 3-4 | 24 | 120 | 24 |
| C | Grades 5-6 | 30 | 150 | 30 |
| D | Grades 7-8 | 30 | 150 | 30 |
| E | Grades 9-10 | 30 | 150 | 30 |
| F | Grades 11-12 | 30 | 150 | 30 |
Note: Students can choose to challenge a level higher than their current grade, but not a level lower. For example, a 3rd grader can take Level B (3-4) or Level C (5-6), but not Level A (1-2).
2. Exam Format & Scoring
Format: Individual competition. Duration: 75 minutes. All questions are multiple-choice (5 options). Calculators or phones are prohibited during the exam.
Scoring Rules: The competition uses unique scoring rules, with different point distributions per level.
Level A-B (Grades 1-4) Scoring Rules:
| Question Range | Points per Q | Number of Qs | Subtotal Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Q1-8 | 3 | 8 | 24 |
| Q9-16 | 4 | 8 | 32 |
| Q17-24 | 5 | 8 | 40 |
Level C-F (Grades 5-12) Scoring Rules:
| Question Range | Points per Q | Number of Qs | Subtotal Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Q1-10 | 3 | 10 | 30 |
| Q11-20 | 4 | 10 | 40 |
| Q21-30 | 5 | 10 | 50 |
Important: The competition implements a penalty for wrong answers (1 point deducted per wrong answer, no penalty for unanswered questions). This design encourages students to answer only questions they are confident about, fostering a rigorous attitude.
IV. Awards & Competition Level
The award structure balances accessibility and challenge, with a high award ratio for beginners and top-tier awards with high thresholds to select outstanding talent.
2026 Math Kangaroo Competition Awards:
| Award Level | Award Proportion | Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Global Perfect Score Award | Unlimited | Candidates with a perfect score. |
| Top Gold Medal | Top 5% | Based on ranking. |
| Gold Award | Top 15% | Based on ranking. |
| Silver Award | Top 30% | Based on ranking. |
| Bronze Award | Top 45% | Based on ranking. |
| Mathematical Skills Award | Top 25% in Province/Municipality/Region/SAR | Evaluated after national awards. |
Awards are given separately for each level. Perfect scorers receive an additional medal. Overall, the total award ratio is high (about two-thirds of participants receive an award), making it an ideal choice for beginners.
V. Preparation Suggestions
1. Scientific Study Plan
Master Knowledge Systematically: Comprehensively review relevant math topics based on the syllabus for your registered level.
Practice by Question Type: Questions fall into five main categories: Pattern Recognition, Operations, Mathematical Logic, Application Problems, and Puzzles. Do targeted practice for each type.
Take Mock Tests: Conduct practice tests using past papers 2-3 weeks before the exam to adapt to the pace and time allocation.
2. Test-Taking Strategies
Read Carefully, Easiest First: Difficulty increases gradually, but higher-point questions are later. Answer in order, mark difficult ones, return to them after finishing others.
Use Scoring Rules Wisely: Due to the penalty, do not guess blindly on uncertain questions. Answer only when reasonably confident.
Manage Time: The earlier questions are simpler; answer them quickly to save ample time for later, higher-point questions.
As a global mathematical fun activity, the Math Kangaroo provides a platform for students of all ages to showcase their mathematical thinking. Registration for the 2026 competition is ongoing (deadline: March 7), with the exam on March 28. Whether a first-timer or experienced, understanding registration, rules, and strategies is crucial.