Santa Monica · Los Angeles · Mathematics

Math Resources
& Courses

A curated guide to enrichment programs, competitions, and books for high school students who want to go further in mathematics.

Programs & Courses
Listed resource
01 Enrichment

UCLA Math Circle

A collaborative math circle hosted at UCLA where students work through challenging and creative problem sets. Designed to develop mathematical thinking beyond the standard curriculum through exploration and peer discussion.

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02 Dual Enrollment

SMC Dual Enrollment

A cost-effective pathway to earn college-level math credits while still in high school, through Santa Monica College. Gain real university experience and get ahead on your transcript at a fraction of the cost.

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03 Summer Program

SMC Summer Math Boot Camp

An intensive summer program at Santa Monica College designed to sharpen your math skills before the school year begins. A great opportunity to review, accelerate, or get ahead in key math subjects.

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04 Tutoring Center

Mathnasium — Santa Monica

A local mathematics building program that tailors instruction to each student's individual needs. Focuses on strengthening number sense and foundational skills through structured, ongoing coaching.

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05 Online · Free to Start

Brilliant.org — Math

An interactive learning platform built around active problem-solving rather than passive watching. Courses span pre-algebra through calculus prep, logic, and combinatorics — all designed for curious students who want to genuinely understand math, not just memorize it.

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06 Online · Free

Khan Academy — Math

A free, comprehensive platform covering math from arithmetic through multivariable calculus and differential equations. Excellent for building or reinforcing foundational skills at your own pace, with instant feedback on exercises.

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Competitions
01 Competition

AMC Competitions

The American Mathematics Competitions (AMC) are nationally recognized math contests offered at multiple levels, including AMC 10 and AMC 12 for high schoolers. A prestigious benchmark and gateway to higher competitions like the AIME and USAMO.

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02 High School · Online · Free

Purple Comet Math Meet

A free, international online team competition open to any group of up to six students in grades 6–12. Problems span a wide range of difficulty and topics, making it accessible to beginners while still challenging for experienced competitors. No invitation required — just sign up and compete.

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Recommended Books
📐

Art of Problem Solving

A comprehensive series covering algebra, geometry, precalculus, calculus, and much more. Widely used by competition math students and self-directed learners alike.

Browse the series
💡

How to Solve It

George Pólya's timeless guide to mathematical problem-solving. Rather than teaching specific topics, it teaches you how to think — a must-read for any student serious about math competitions or deeper study.

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⚙️

The Art & Craft of Problem Solving — Zeitz

A beloved bridge between high school math and olympiad-level thinking. Zeitz covers strategy, tactics, and a wide range of topics with clear explanations and excellent problems. Pairs perfectly with AoPS.

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Geometry Revisited — Coxeter & Greitzer

A classic that takes high school geometry far beyond the standard curriculum — covering projective geometry, inversive geometry, and elegant proofs. Essential reading for any student preparing for AMC, AIME, or olympiad geometry problems.

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