College of Natural & Agricultural Sciences

Putnam Competition

The William Lowell Putnam Mathematical Competition is the premier mathematics contest for undergraduate students in the United States and Canada. Held each December, this challenging six-hour exam rewards creative problem-solving and deep mathematical insight. Students compete individually and as part of a university team, with top scorers earning national recognition and prizes—including the prestigious title of Putnam Fellow. The Elizabeth Lowell Putnam Prize is awarded to an outstanding female contestant.

The 86th Putnam Competition will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, with registration opening on Tuesday, September 2, 2025.

For more details on competition rules, past problems, prizes, and preparation tips, visit the official MAA Putnam page

Interested in participating through UCR or learning how to prepare? Reach out to: Dr. Mykhailo Potomkin

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