Canadian Open Mathematics Challenge (COMC)
Canada's national high school math challenge and the path to the Canadian Math Olympiad. Written October 29, 2026.
- Grades
- Grades 9–12
- Format
- Paper, in person with a qualified supervisor, usually at school. Writing at home isn't allowed.
- Cost
- $30–$35 per student through a school. Independent writers pay the writing centre's fee.
- Official site
- cms.math.ca
Key dates
- ConfirmedSchool registration deadline (shipped exams)Wed, October 14, 2026
- ConfirmedSchool registration deadline (PDF exams)Wed, October 21, 2026
- ConfirmedContest dayThu, October 29, 2026
What it is
A 2.5-hour paper contest open to any student who can handle high school math, with awards by grade and region, including Best in BC.
Top performers are invited to the Canadian Mathematical Olympiad or Junior Olympiad, which can lead to Math Team Canada.
A good fit if: Strong high school math students, and ambitious younger students.
How to register
- Ask the school math department. School registration closes October 14 for shipped exams or October 21, 2026 for PDF exams.
- Students whose school isn't taking part can book a seat at a university Open Writing Centre. We haven't confirmed a Vancouver centre yet.
How to prepare
- Past COMC papers from 2011 onward are on the CMS website.
For grade-by-grade options see Grade 9, Grade 10, Grade 11, Grade 12.
Common questions
How do students get into the Canadian Math Olympiad?
Top COMC performers are invited to the Canadian Mathematical Olympiad (CMO) or the Junior CMO.
What comes next
Sources
Last checked October 2, 2026. Dates can change, so always confirm with the organizer.