<p>I am a Junior and was just recently introduced to big math contests like the AMC 12. </p>
<p>I did not do well this year, but I started to explore some AMC problems after the A and B exams this year.</p>
<p>After some studying and practice, I was able to get scores around 110 on practice AMC 12 tests. I was also able to solve several (6-7) AIME problems when I took a look at them from past tests. With some more diligent studying, I really think that I have a chance at qualifying for USAMO next year. The problem is that I will be a senior. I know that I should not do this just for college admissions (and I am not; I really like math), but if I cannot tell colleges in time that I made USAMO, how else can I show that I am strong in math? I am talking about tech savvy schools here; MIT, CalTech etc. Will a really high AMC score reported after submitting the application be indicative of potential USAMO qualification, or will it not help me much??</p>
<p>No one on here knows what you are even saying! Too much math lingo! Win competitions, have perfect test scores, be on your school team, and do nerdy stuff, and you are in kiddo! </p>
<p>Indicate your AMC and AIME scores and rankings. Include a math coach’s recommendation. Indicate in the “additional information” section that you’re competing for USAMO and will let them know if you are selected. In addition, see if you can take classes at the level of Calculus 3 and above through a college nearby, perhaps as dual enrollment.</p>
<p>^ccnube: don’t generalize. If you don’t know, don’t answer.</p>
<p>I agree with MYOS. They can tell by your AMC and AIME scores if you’re likely to make USAMO in your senior year. Also, if you’re interested and have the $$ or qualify for financial aid, you can apply to a summer math program. Do you do any math competitions during the academic year? ARML is still coming up for this May/June. Caveat: If you have no prior demonstrated track record and you start doing these things senior year, it may look like you’re just trying to do these things for college apps as opposed to having a true passion for math. I don’t say that to discourage you from doing them, but to think about how you may want to try and overcome this impression.</p>