Overview
The Junior Mathematical Challenge (JMC) is a first-round maths competition for younger secondary students, run by the United Kingdom Mathematics Trust (UKMT). It is a multiple-choice paper taken in school, and high scorers move on to the Junior Kangaroo and the Junior Mathematical Olympiad.
Who can enter
England, Wales and overseas schools: Year 8 and below
Scotland: S2 or below
Northern Ireland: Year 9 or below
Exam pattern
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Duration | 60 minutes |
| Questions | 25, multiple choice |
| Mode | Paper-based, in school |
| Working | Blank paper allowed; calculators, measuring instruments and squared paper are not |
Marking and awards
The maximum score is 135 marks. Questions 1 to 15 are worth 5 marks each and questions 16 to 25 are worth 6 marks each. There is no penalty for wrong answers and blanks score zero.
Certificates go to the top 50% of entrants in a 3:2:1 ratio of Gold, Silver and Bronze. The 2026 thresholds were Gold 75, Silver 59 and Bronze 47. Everyone else gets a participation certificate, and there are badges for Best in Year and Best in School.
After the competition
In 2026, a score of 80 or more qualified a student for the Junior Kangaroo (UK schools only), and 112 or more for the Junior Mathematical Olympiad. Roughly 10,000 to 15,000 students reach the Kangaroo and the top 1,000 to 1,200 reach the Olympiad.
Important dates
The JMC date listed on UKMT's page is Wednesday 5 May 2027. Orders for printed papers close on Wednesday 14 April 2027, and downloadable papers can be bought until the day of the competition.
Fees
UKMT lists 16 pounds per pack of 10 posted papers, or 15 pounds per pack of 10 if the school downloads and prints them.
Preparation tips
The paper is ordered from easier to harder, and you are not expected to finish. Secure the early questions first, and use past papers to get used to the 60-minute pace.
Is there a penalty for wrong answers?
No. Wrong answers and blanks both score zero, so it is worth answering every question.
Can I enter without my school?
No. Schools order the papers and run the competition.