When should I start the application process?
We publish the Qualifying Quiz each year in January, and that's a good time to get started with this year's application. Before you dive in, be sure to read the policy on getting help on the Quiz. In brief: external resources can be used to learn background material, but not to find, write, or check solutions. (Our policy on getting help on other parts of the application is here.)
The Quiz problems are meant to be considered at your leisure, and we hope that they're the sorts of problems that will stick with you. Think about a problem while you're waiting in line for the bus, have a breakthrough in the shower, wake up with a new idea and scribble it in a bedside notebook. Keep all your scratchwork — we are interested in seeing your process, so we are asking you to scan and upload your work at reguarly intervals as you work out a problem, false starts and all. You might be using several resources to learn new material (other people, books, articles you find online, you may even have asked ChatGPT to teach you group theory). Keep track of these resources, as we want you to list them for us.
Eventually, start shaping your ideas into airtight solutions, perhaps on a weekend after a good night's sleep. We've chosen to make the Quiz untimed (and to give you several weeks to work on it) because the experience should be more like doing research than like cramming before a deadline. You'll enjoy it much more if you take your time.
What else should I be thinking about when I'm getting started?
When we select applicants for Mathcamp, we use every piece of data we collect: your Quiz, your "About You" section, your mathematical background, and your reference. We evaluate not only mathematical strength, but a much broader question: which applicants are the best fit for Mathcamp's mission. As you're getting started with your application, we encourage you to think of the "About You" section as an opportunity to help us get to know you. Similarly, when you're selecting a reference, pick an adult who can vouch for your credentials and help us to understand the ways in which you'll contribute to the Mathcamp community.
In recent years, Mathcamp has exploded in popularity, but our student body is intentionally small—only 65 new students per year—so that we can maintain a personalized, high-quality program. To select our new students, our admissions committee reads every application holistically. Make each part of your application count!
What should I do before January?
Learn more about Mathcamp, and decide whether you think it might be a good fit for you this summer! Visit the About Mathcamp section for more general information, or learn more about Academics and Student Life at camp.
