The SASMO Syllabus helps students prepare for the Singapore and Asian Schools Math Olympiad (SASMO), an international mathematics competition designed to develop mathematical understanding and higher-order thinking skills.
The official SASMO website lists topics such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, mensuration, statistics, and non-routine problem-solving. The topics vary by grade, so students should review the syllabus applicable to their level before starting preparation.
Also check, SASMO 2026 Last Date to Apply
The official SASMO website identifies several key areas in its syllabus. The following sections explain these topics to help students organise their preparation.
Arithmetic is an important part of the SASMO syllabus. Students should revise the arithmetic concepts taught at their grade level and practise applying them to numerical problems. Statistics is also included at several levels, helping students develop the ability to interpret and work with numerical information.
Preparation should focus on understanding concepts and selecting suitable methods to solve problems rather than relying only on memorised procedures.
Algebra appears in the syllabus for several grade levels. Students should revise the algebraic concepts prescribed for their class and practise solving problems that require logical steps.
The official syllabus lists arithmetic and algebra together for certain levels. Students should check their grade-specific requirements before deciding which concepts to prioritise.
Geometry and mensuration are important areas of SASMO preparation. These topics involve mathematical shapes, their properties, and measurements. Students should practise questions based on the concepts covered in their school curriculum.
Some grade levels also include graphs, while the official syllabus specifically mentions Pythagoras' Theorem and, at higher levels, trigonometry. The exact topics depend on the level of participation.
The SASMO syllabus includes solving word problems using the model method or other suitable approaches. Depending on the grade, students may also use algebra to represent and solve problems.
To prepare, students should learn to identify the information given in a question, understand what needs to be calculated, and choose an appropriate method. Practising different types of word problems can help build confidence in applying mathematical concepts.
Non-routine problem-solving is a distinctive part of the SASMO syllabus. The official website includes areas such as:
Number patterns
Divisibility tests
Spatial visualisation
Logic problems
Simple cryptarithms or cryptarithms, depending on the grade level
These questions require students to look for patterns, analyse information, and apply reasoning. Students should practise unfamiliar problems and understand why a particular solution works.
Also check, SASMO Registration
The official website groups syllabus topics according to different grade levels. The following table summarises the broad topic combinations listed on the website.
|
Topic Group |
Main Areas Listed |
|
Group 1 |
Arithmetic and Statistics; Geometry and Mensuration; model-method word problems; non-routine problem-solving |
|
Group 2 |
Arithmetic and Statistics; Geometry and Mensuration; word problems using model methods or other methods; non-routine problem-solving |
|
Group 3 |
Arithmetic and Algebra; Geometry, Graphs and Mensuration; Statistics; non-routine problem-solving |
|
Group 4 |
Arithmetic and Algebra; Geometry, Graphs and Mensuration; Pythagoras' Theorem; Statistics; non-routine problem-solving |
|
Group 5 |
Arithmetic and Algebra; Geometry, Graphs and Mensuration; Pythagoras' Theorem and Trigonometry; Statistics and Probability; non-routine problem-solving |
According to the official SASMO website, the contest format differs for Kindergarten 2 (K2) and Grades 1 to 12.
|
Student Level |
Duration |
Number of Questions |
|
K2 |
60 minutes |
15 questions |
|
Grades 1–12 |
90 minutes |
25 questions |
Students can follow a consistent preparation plan to cover the relevant syllabus topics.
Check your grade's syllabus: Identify the topics applicable to your level using the official website.
Revise school mathematics: Build a strong understanding of the concepts included in your syllabus.
Practise non-routine questions: Solve number patterns, logic problems, and other reasoning-based questions appropriate to your grade.
Improve problem-solving skills: Try different approaches and understand the reasoning behind each solution.
Practise within the time limit: Use suitable practice papers to improve time management.
Review mistakes: Identify the concepts behind incorrect answers and practise similar questions.
Students can also check the official SASMO website for syllabus details and competition information.
PW provides Olympiad exam content, including Olympiad Exams Updates, sample papers, mock tests, guidance sessions, and more. Also, enroll today in the Olympiad Online Batches for preparation.

