Math Circle classes

WHAT:  Our Math Circle classes combine the best of American and Eastern European mathematical traditions by exposing children to fun, challenging math problems that students are unlikely to encounter in a traditional school setting or other math program. CMC's unique, original Math Circle approach was developed by our founders. Our classes make math fun by learning through puzzles, games, building challenges, and crossover activities that incorporate music, art, and other STEAM topics. Our goal is to strengthen your student's creative problem-solving skills, build their confidence and grit, and encourage them to see the beauty of mathematics.

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Classes consist of a building or warm-up activity, followed by the main problem-solving session, followed by math games. Our theme for Winter 2025 is topology -- both 2D and 3D. Activities will include (but are not limited to) exploring Mobius strips and knot theory. Additionally, middle schoolers will participate in math competition training and take part in fun, friendly team competitions.

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WHO:  Students entering grades 1-8 in September 2024. Classes are broken down into smaller groups based on age (grades 1-3 and 4-8). Email us at classes@cambridgemathcircle.org if you'd like us to consider your rising 1st grader. We reserve the right to deny admission to any rising 1st grader for any reason.

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WHEN & WHERE:  We offer morning and afternoon classes on Saturdays. Class times are separated by grade level.

Saturday mornings: Grades 1-3, 9:15-10:00AM. Grades 4-8, 10:15-11:15AM.

Saturday afternoons: Grades 1-3, 2:15-3:00PM. Grades 4-8, 3:15-4:15PM.

Monday evenings (returning students ONLY): Math Circle online for all grades, 5:30-6:30pm.

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Sessions are 10 classes. Our first Winter Math Circle classes will be held at Harvard University on Saturday, January 4. Our last Winter class will be on March 22. NO CLASS on January 18 or February 15. See below for our Math Circle class calendar.

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COST:   $400 per 10-class session. We offer need-based financial aid to low-income families, with priority given to families from Cambridge and Somerville—although everyone is welcome to apply. There is also a $50 registration fee per year.

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REGISTRATION FEE:   $50 per year, per child.  New this year, there is a one-time registration fee per academic year, per student, to help cover the cost of materials. The registration fee is due when you pay tuition for your first class. If your child registers for another class this year, only tuition will be due. For example: if you register for Fall Math Circle classes at Harvard, you will pay the tuition and a $50 registration fee. If you also decide to register for a Fall Preparatory class, or the Winter Math Circle class, you will only be charged tuition for those classes and no registration fee.

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EVALUATIONS POLICY:  If your child is a rising 1st grader, they must undergo a placement evaluation. Because the material and social environment at Math Circle can be very challenging for young children, we can only admit 1st graders with very strong math and reading skills. To schedule your evaluation, simply submit your application for class by the deadline, and wait for a CMC staff member to contact you. You may also email us at classes@cambridgemathcircle.org after completing your application to schedule the evaluation.​ We reserve the right to refuse admission to any 1st grader for any reason.

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PROOF OF GRADE:  If you are new to Cambridge Math Circle, we're glad you found us! Also, please know that all new elementary students (grades 1-5) are required to submit proof of grade level from their school. This can include a report card from the prior year listing their grade, or any notice from the school that lists your child's name and grade. There will be a place to upload your proof of grade in the application. If you have questions, reach out to us at classes@cambridgemathcircle.org. 

NOTE: Returning students DO NOT need to submit a proof of grade. This is only for students new to Cambridge Math Circle.

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