Participating in the Putnam Exam as a High School Student: Is it Possible?

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SUMMARY

The Putnam Exam is primarily designed for undergraduate students, and high school students are generally not eligible to participate unless they are associated with a university or college. Participants can only compete four times, which means entering as a high school student may limit future opportunities. While official participation is restricted, high school students may still engage with the exam informally by consulting with university coaches or professors.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the Putnam Exam eligibility criteria
  • Familiarity with university-level mathematics
  • Knowledge of competitive mathematics environments
  • Awareness of academic associations with universities
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the eligibility requirements for the Putnam Exam
  • Explore university mathematics programs that support high school students
  • Learn about informal participation options in competitive exams
  • Investigate resources for preparing for the Putnam Exam
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for high school students interested in mathematics competitions, educators advising students on competitive exams, and university coaches looking to support young talent in mathematics.

Ben1587
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Is it possible to take the putnam exam when your a student in high school?
thanks
 
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I know that you have to be associated with a university or college. I'm not sure how much of an association is necessary, but I believe that you have to be at least enrolled in the school you are competing for.

You can only compete in the contest four times, though. So entering the contest when you are in high school can prevent you from being able to enter later on when you've accumulated more knowledge and are more prepared.
 
Ben1587 said:
Is it possible to take the putnam exam when your a student in high school?
thanks

I would say no, because it's only open to people who are in an undergrad program, but who haven't graduated yet. I think that answers your question, but if you still want to write it the coach of your local university's team would probably let you do it for fun. The prof who coaches our team writes it every year (& solves every problem, & takes ~1.5hrs to do each half) & last time I did it there was someone who had already graduated & she was allowed to do it for fun.
 

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