SA Mathematics Olympiad

Old Mutual South African Mathematics Olympiad

Challenge and Inspire: SAMO provides a challenging platform that inspires learners to excel in mathematics.
National Recognition: Be part of a nationwide initiative that recognises and celebrates outstanding mathematical achievements.

Unparalleled Challenge: SAMO introduces challenging math problems designed to stretch the limits of even the brightest minds. Participants face thought-provoking questions that go beyond the conventional, fostering a unique and intellectually stimulating experience.
Triumph through Three Rounds: SAMO unfolds over three rounds, each progressively more demanding. Only the best-of-the-best advance to the final round, where mathematical prowess is showcased and celebrated. It's a journey that separates the exceptional from the extraordinary.
Global Recognition at the IMO: Participants reaching the third round are eligible to represent South Africa at the prestigious International Mathematics Olympiad (IMO) in 2025. SAMO serves as a gateway to the global stage, offering an opportunity for international recognition and competition.
Online Learning Support: Committed to empowering learners, SAMO provides comprehensive online training. Accessible on the Foundation's YouTube channel, this support ensures participants are well-prepared, and equipped with the skills needed to tackle the challenging problems presented in the competition.

Recognition: Stand out with certificates and awards for outstanding performance.
Curiosity-Driven Learning: SAMO sets itself apart by posing interesting questions that go beyond classroom boundaries. These thought-provoking challenges aim to spark curiosity and motivate students to explore topics outside the standard curriculum.
Practical Benefits for the Future: Success in SAMO opens doors not only to universities but also to future employers. The competition emphasises problem-solving skills, a key requirement in the 21st-century job market. SAMO participants stand out for their ability to think critically and creatively. Participate in SAMO and unlock a spectrum of benefits that go beyond academics, shaping well-rounded individuals ready for the challenges of the future.

The first round is written in March and consists of three levels: grade 8, grade 9 and grade 10 to 12. Each paper consists of 20 questions with multiple-choice answers and learners have one hour to complete the paper. Each school is provided with the solutions. For this round, the teachers mark the papers.
Learners who attain 50 % or higher in the first round qualify for the second round which is written in May. It consists of a junior division for grades 8 and 9 and a senior division for grades 10 to 12. This time both groups write two-hour papers consisting of twenty-five questions. The papers are marked by computer at the SAMF office.
The approximately 100 best senior and 100 best junior learners from the previous round qualify for the third round, which is written in July. The best achievers are eligible for the national teams taking part in the International Mathematical Olympiad and Pan-African Mathematics Olympiad.

Should you have any questions or require assistance, feel free to contact any of the following SAMO project team members.

Second Round: 15 May from 14:00 - 16:00

Third Round: 31 July from 9:00 - 13:00