A Parent's Guide to the Euclid Math Contest
The Euclid Mathematics Contest is run by the Centre for Education in Mathematics and Computing (CEMC) at the University of Waterloo. It is the best-known high school math contest in Canada. About 24,000 students wrote it in 2026, mostly in Grade 12, along with some ambitious younger students, and a strong result is a real asset on university applications, especially for math, computer science and engineering.
How is the Euclid contest set up?
The contest lasts 2.5 hours and has 10 problems worth 10 marks each. Each problem is split into several parts, and the parts are either short answer (3 marks each) or full solution (the remaining marks). Problems run roughly from easiest to hardest, so the opening questions are within reach of strong math students while the last ones challenge even the most gifted competitors. The paper is marked out of 100, and partial marks are given for correct work shown.
Contests like the AMC use multiple choice, but the Euclid asks for written solutions. Getting the right answer is not enough: students have to explain their reasoning clearly and fully.
What counts as a good Euclid score?
The Certificate of Distinction cutoff shifts from year to year. These are the 2026 figures from CEMC:
| Score Range | Standing in 2026 | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 66-100 | Top 25% | Certificate of Distinction (2026 cutoff: 66); a strong credential for any STEM program |
| 53-65 | Above the 2026 average of 52.2 | Solid performance; shows above-average math ability |
| Below 52 | At or below the 2026 average | Participation is still valuable experience |
A good Euclid result is especially useful for the University of Waterloo's Mathematics and Computer Science programs. Waterloo does not require a contest for admission, but contest results count in its entrance scholarship decisions, and a score in the top 25% (a Certificate of Distinction) is a clear credential.
How should a student prepare?
The best method is to work through past Euclid contests, which CEMC posts for free on its website. Begin with papers from 5 to 10 years ago and move toward the most recent ones. When a problem stumps you, read the official solution closely and make sure you grasp the technique behind it.
Topics worth reviewing:
- Number theory (divisibility, modular arithmetic, the Euclidean algorithm)
- Geometry (circle theorems, coordinate geometry, trigonometric identities)
- Algebra (inequalities, polynomial roots, functional equations)
- Combinatorics (counting, probability, the pigeonhole principle)
- Sequences and series
Set aside at least 2 to 3 months of focused work before the contest, which is held in April.
Does a Euclid score affect university admission?
At the University of Waterloo, in part. The Faculty of Mathematics does not require the Euclid for admission, but it says that writing the Euclid or the Canadian Senior Mathematics Contest is required for some entrance scholarship decisions, and Ontario applicants must write the Euclid at their regular school to be considered. Scholarship decisions combine averages, the Admission Information Form and contest results. Other Canadian universities do not formally require the contest but think well of strong results, particularly for STEM admissions.
For applications to US universities, the Euclid is less widely recognized than the AMC/AIME. A top score is still a worthwhile achievement to list when applying to STEM programs.
Related reading
If your child is getting ready for the Euclid or other math contests, book a free consultation with Bosen Academics to work with a contest math tutor.
Frequently asked questions
Can a student below Grade 12 write the Euclid?
Yes. The contest is built for Grade 12, but CEMC welcomes motivated students in lower grades. Strong Grade 10 and 11 students often write it for practice, and a good score at a younger age is an especially impressive credential.
Can students use a calculator on the Euclid?
Some calculators are allowed: any device without internet access, communication ability, stored notes or programs, or a computer algebra system. The problems are written so that a calculator gives very little advantage, and the steps in a written solution still have to be shown.
How does the Euclid compare to the AMC 12?
The AMC 12 is multiple choice, with 25 problems in 75 minutes, and it rewards speed and pattern recognition. The Euclid has 10 problems in 150 minutes and rewards depth and clear written communication. Students serious about math contests should consider writing both.
Does the Euclid matter for university admission?
The University of Waterloo does not require it for admission to the Faculty of Mathematics, but writing the Euclid (or the CSMC) is required for some entrance scholarship decisions. Other Canadian universities do not formally require it but may view strong results favourably, especially for STEM programs. For US applications it carries less name recognition than the AMC/AIME.
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