Harvard-MIT Math Tournament

Harvard-MIT Math Tournament

  • .. Min Read
  • May 05, 2025
  • Academic Competitions
  • Author | Shahreer Zahan

The Harvard-MIT Mathematics Tournament (HMMT) is one of the most prestigious and challenging math competitions for high school students worldwide. Organized by undergraduate students from Harvard and MIT, HMMT attracts top-tier talent from across the globe to engage in rigorous mathematical problem-solving.

The Harvard-MIT Mathematics Tournament (HMMT) is one of the most prestigious and challenging math competitions for high school students worldwide. Organized by undergraduate students from Harvard and MIT, HMMT attracts top-tier talent from across the globe to engage in rigorous mathematical problem-solving.

HMMT 2025 Tournament Dates & Deadlines

HMMT hosts two major tournaments annually:

  • November Tournament: Held at Harvard University on November 9, 2024.​
  • February Tournament: Held at MIT on February 15, 2025.

Registration typically opens in September for both tournaments. Applications must be submitted through the official HMMT registration portal. Due to space constraints, acceptance is determined via a lottery system. Teams that placed in the top 30 in the previous February tournament receive guaranteed acceptance if they apply for the current season.

Partner Institutions

HMMT is a collaborative effort between student organizations at Harvard and MIT. While the tournament receives support from both universities, it operates as an independent entity. No external organizations are officially affiliated with HMMT.

Tournament Structure

HMMT challenges participants through a series of individual and team-based rounds:​

  • Individual Rounds: Participants solve problems in areas such as algebra, geometry, and combinatorics.
  • Team Round: Teams collaborate on proof-based problems, emphasizing deep understanding and collective problem-solving.
  • Guts Round: A fast-paced team event where problems are solved in sets, testing both speed and accuracy.​

The November tournament typically features teams of 4–6 students, while the February tournament accommodates teams of 6–8 students.

Preparation Tips

To excel at HMMT, consider the following strategies:

  1. Master Core Topics: Develop a strong foundation in algebra, geometry, number theory, and combinatorics.​
  2. Practice Past Problems: Regularly solve problems from previous HMMT competitions to familiarize yourself with the format and difficulty.
  3. Join Math Circles: Engage with local or online math communities to discuss problems and solutions collaboratively.​
  4. Simulate Test Conditions: Time yourself while practicing to build speed and accuracy under exam conditions.​
  5. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify and strengthen areas where you face challenges to ensure a well-rounded skill set.​

Additional Resources

For more information, including registration details and practice materials, visit the official HMMT website: https://www.hmmt.org

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