AMC Scoring Explained: Classic vs Modern System
Understand how AMC scoring works, the 2022 scoring change, AIME cutoffs, and Honor Roll thresholds.
The 2022 Scoring Change
In 2022, the AMC made a major scoring change. The classic system (6 points correct, 1.5 blank, 0 wrong, max 150) was replaced with a simpler system: 1 point per correct answer, max 25.
This change eliminated the strategic decision of whether to leave questions blank. Under the new system, you should always answer every question.
AMC 8 Scoring
AMC 8 has always used simple scoring: 1 point per correct answer, no penalty. Max score: 25. Distinguished Honor Roll: 21+. Honor Roll: 15+.
AIME Qualification Cutoffs
AIME cutoffs are set each year based on score distributions. Recent approximate cutoffs: AMC 10 ~18/25 (new) or ~120/150 (classic). AMC 12 ~17/25 (new) or ~100/150 (classic).
These cutoffs can vary significantly year to year. In easier years, cutoffs are higher.