HiMCM / MidMCM 2026 — International Mathematical Modeling Competition
International mathematical modeling competition for middle and high school students. HiMCM for high school students, MidMCM for students under 14.5 years old. Teams of up to four students solve a real modeling problem over 14 days and submit a written report for judging.
- Age
- 11–18 yrs
- Applications
- Applications closed
- Format
- Online
- Where
- United States
- Organiser
- comap.org
Who can apply
- Age 11–18 yrs
- Gifted
Competition Format
Teams of up to four students have a 14-day period to download the problem, develop a mathematical modeling solution, and electronically submit their work for centralized judging. Teams are not required to use the full 14-day window.
Participants
HiMCM: all high school students and younger.
MidMCM: students under 14½ years old on the competition start date.
Skills and Outcomes
Students improve their mathematical modeling, problem-solving, and written communication skills. They also develop teamwork and communication skills while preparing the written report.
Organization
There are no limits on the number of teams per school, and no limit on how many teams one advisor can coach.
Sample Previous Problems
HiMCM: Roller Coasters (develop an objective ranking system), Drone Clusters (design a drone light show), Shop and Ship (optimal warehouse locations), Swim, Bike, Run (minimize transitions), Art Gallery Security (most secure configuration).
MidMCM: Dog Park (design a dog park), Polygon Paradise Park (create a schedule for a day at the park), Preparing for Olympic Medal Ceremonies.