Math and computing contests challenge students from around the world with a range of abilities to grow valuable problem-solving skills. Contest participation is not a requirement for admission, but we strongly encourage you to participate, as it is an asset to your application and can help in making Faculty scholarship decisions. We encourage you to check out the Euclid Mathematics Contest and/or Canadian Senior Mathematics Contest (CSMC).
It is recommended that applicants to Computer Science write the Canadian Computing Competition (CCC), though it is not a requirement for admission. The aim of the competition is to provide students with an opportunity to test their ability in designing and understanding algorithms, as well as in programming. Contest winners will be invited to participate in computer science enrichment workshops at Waterloo, and you can include your participation in the contest on your Admission Information Form.
Why participate in a contest?
- To challenge yourself and your problem-solving skills.
- To prepare for university studies.
- Contests are an asset to your application.
- To demonstrate that you have sufficient mathematical background to enter our programs, especially useful in cases where we may be unfamiliar with an education system and unable to assess an applicant's mathematical background.
- To be eligible for an entrance scholarship.
How can I prepare for a contest?
The Faculty of Mathematics in partnership with the Centre for Education in Mathematics and Computing (CEMC) hosts preparatory workshops for students to practice for the Euclid Mathematics Contest and Canadian Senior Mathematics Contest (CSMC) every year. CSMC Preparation Webinars take place before the contest in the Fall, while Euclid Preparation Webinars take place before the contest in the Spring.
Register to attend these preparatory workshops and set yourself up for success!
You can also access free contest preparation materials, including copies of past contests and solutions, online on demand through the CEMC.
Resources to help you prepare contests:
- The Mathematics Resource Manual is a helpful resource that reviews secondary and high school topics.
- To get an idea of what problems you will be solving for a contest, check out the CEMC's past contests and solutions.
- Prepare to write the CSMC and Euclid contest with CEMC's prep materials.
- Prepare for contests through our live workshops run by the CEMC
- Review, practice and get feedback for free! Check out CEMC's grade 12 open courseware.
- Prepare to write the Canadian Computing Competition with CEMC's example programs.
- Practice your skills weekly by checking out CEMC's Problem of the Week.
How do I register for a contest?
Talk to a teacher about registering for contests!
We suggest contacting your school to find out whether or not they have participated in our contests before. If they haven't, registering is a simple process for the school Principal or Head Math Teacher. Your school is welcome to contact the CEMC if they have any questions regarding this process, as we must handle matters with the school, directly. Applicants to the Faculty of Math attending secondary school in Ontario must write the Euclid Contest at their regular school for the Admissions and Scholarship Committees to consider their score.