6 Best AMC Prep Courses for Intermediate That Build Real Competence

Your child aced their elementary math competitions, and you’re both proud and a little nervous about what’s next. The American Mathematics Competitions (AMC 10/12) feel like a huge leap, moving from quick calculations to problems that look like riddles. Choosing the right prep course can feel overwhelming, as you’re not just investing money, but your child’s time and confidence.

Beyond Formulas: What Intermediate AMC Prep Means

You’ve probably noticed that the problems on a practice AMC 10 look nothing like school homework. That’s because this level of competition isn’t about memorizing formulas; it’s about developing mathematical intuition and creative problem-solving skills. The intermediate stage, typically for students in grades 7-10, is a critical transition from computational speed to deep conceptual reasoning in areas like number theory, combinatorics, and geometry.

This is a developmental sweet spot. Your middle schooler is capable of abstract thought but still needs guidance to build the mental stamina required for multi-step, non-obvious problems. The right program won’t just be a "test prep" class. It will be a place that nurtures intellectual curiosity, teaches them how to struggle productively with a problem, and shows them the beauty of mathematics beyond the textbook. The goal is to build a competent, resilient thinker, not just a high scorer.

Art of Problem Solving for Deep Conceptual Learning

Is your child the one who always asks "why"? Do they enjoy tinkering with a problem for hours, even if they don’t solve it right away? Art of Problem Solving (AoPS) was built for this exact type of learner. Their entire philosophy is rooted in discovery; instead of being given a formula, students are guided through problems that lead them to figure out the underlying concepts for themselves. This creates a much deeper and more flexible understanding that is essential for AMC success.

The AoPS format, which includes self-paced online textbooks, the Alcumus adaptive practice system, and live online classes, is text-based. This requires a high degree of self-motivation and works best for students who are comfortable reading and typing their reasoning. It’s less about a charismatic lecturer and more about a Socratic dialogue with an instructor and peers in a moderated forum. For the independent, internally driven student, the AoPS ecosystem is the undisputed gold standard for building a powerful mathematical foundation.

Russian School of Math for Structured Curriculum

If your child thrives in a more traditional classroom setting with a clear, sequential curriculum, the Russian School of Math (RSM) is a strong contender. Think of RSM less as a short-term prep course and more as a comprehensive, multi-year math enrichment program. Their methodology focuses on building a logical framework from an early age, so by the time students are ready for the AMC, the necessary thinking skills have already been systematically developed.

RSM’s strength lies in its consistency and structure. Students typically attend weekly classes, either in-person or live online, with the same teacher and classmates, fostering accountability and a sense of community. The curriculum is meticulously planned, ensuring no conceptual gaps are left behind. This approach is ideal for families who want a complete, long-term partner in their child’s math education, where competition prep is a natural outcome of a robust curriculum, not a standalone add-on.

AlphaStar Academy for a Competitive Edge Focus

Does your child light up at the thought of competition? Are they already looking past the AMC and talking about qualifying for the AIME or even the USA(J)MO? AlphaStar Academy is designed specifically for these highly motivated, competition-focused students. Their programs are intense, fast-paced, and unapologetically geared toward achieving top-tier results in national and international math contests.

AlphaStar offers year-round online classes and renowned intensive summer and winter camps. The environment is for students who are serious about putting in the work and want to be surrounded by peers who share their drive. The curriculum dives deep into advanced topics and specific strategies tailored to the unique style of AMC and AIME problems. This is the right choice for a student who has already mastered the fundamentals and is looking for the specialized training and competitive environment needed to reach the next level.

AwesomeMath for Live, Engaging Problem Sessions

Perhaps your child learns best by talking things through and watching an expert model the problem-solving process. They get energized by the collaborative effort of tackling a difficult, beautiful problem. AwesomeMath excels at creating this exact experience. Their programs, especially their well-known summer camps, are less about a fixed curriculum and more about immersive, live problem-solving sessions led by passionate instructors, many of whom are former Olympiad medalists.

The focus here is on the art and craft of problem-solving. Students spend their time deeply engaged with challenging problem sets, presenting solutions, and learning multiple ways to approach the same question. It’s an incredibly dynamic and engaging environment. While they also offer year-round online options, AwesomeMath is a fantastic choice for the student who is already conceptually solid but needs to see how experts think on their feet and develop a more creative, flexible toolkit for tough problems.

Brilliant.org for Interactive, Self-Paced Study

Your family’s schedule is a logistical puzzle, and a fixed class time just won’t work. Or maybe your child is a visual, hands-on learner who prefers to explore concepts at their own pace. Brilliant.org is a powerful tool that fits perfectly into these scenarios. It’s a subscription-based platform with a library of interactive courses, including many focused on contest math topics like number theory and combinatorics.

Brilliant’s strength is its interactive, visual approach. Instead of reading a wall of text, students learn by dragging, dropping, and manipulating objects on the screen, building intuition with every click. It’s an excellent, low-pressure way to supplement another course, review a tricky concept, or keep skills sharp during the off-season. While it lacks the live coaching and structured feedback of a formal class, it’s an outstanding resource for the self-directed student or as a flexible addition to your child’s learning toolkit.

ZIML for Regular Contests and Problem Practice

You know that practice makes perfect, but getting your child to sit down and do a timed mock test can be a battle. The Zoom International Math League (ZIML) offers a brilliant solution: it turns practice into a regular, low-stakes competition. ZIML provides a consistent schedule of online contests that mimic the style and difficulty of the AMC, giving students crucial experience with pacing and time management.

The real value of ZIML isn’t just the contest itself, but the ecosystem around it. After each competition, students get immediate feedback and access to detailed solutions, allowing them to learn from their mistakes while the problem is still fresh in their minds. Think of it as a "math gym"—a place to build endurance, test strategies, and identify weak areas. It’s the perfect complement to a more conceptual course, providing the practical application and repetition needed to turn knowledge into performance.

Matching the Course to Your Child’s Learning Style

Ultimately, the best AMC prep course is the one that aligns with your child’s personality, goals, and how they learn best. Pushing a highly social learner into a text-based, self-study program can be just as counterproductive as placing a methodical, structured thinker into a fast-paced, competitive camp. Take a moment to honestly assess what kind of environment will help your child thrive.

Here’s a simple framework to guide your decision:

• For the deep, conceptual thinker who loves to self-discover: Art of Problem Solving
• For the student who needs structure and a long-term, comprehensive curriculum: Russian School of Math
• For the highly driven competitor aiming for national recognition: AlphaStar Academy
• For the social, collaborative learner who loves live problem-solving: AwesomeMath
• For the independent, visual learner needing flexibility: Brilliant.org (as a primary or supplemental tool)
• For building test-taking endurance through consistent practice: ZIML (as a complement to another program)

Trust your knowledge of your child. The goal isn’t just to prepare for a single test, but to foster a lasting confidence and enjoyment in tackling complex challenges. Choosing an environment where they feel supported and appropriately challenged is the most important investment you can make.

Remember, this journey is a marathon, not a sprint. The real prize isn’t the score on the page, but the resilient, creative, and powerful mind your child is building along the way. Celebrate the effort, encourage the struggle, and enjoy watching them grow.