MIT Challenge

The MIT Challenge will give you a taste of real-world consulting and how to use mathematics to solve a real-world problem.

A group of student sit around a table working together on the MIT Challenge
A group of three students map out potential solutions to an MIT Challenge to create posters for their presentation
Students present their MIT Challenge solution to the crowd. Part of the challenge is to create a presentation and convince the judges that your solution is the best.

The competition will engage you in all aspects of consulting. You’ll meet a client to learn about their problem, work with your team to discuss ideas and plan a solution. You’ll then communicate your ideas to the client with written and oral presentations.

You’ll meet an industry representative, your ‘client’, who will present you with a real-world problem. You and your team, ‘the consultants’, will need to find a solution within 2 hours and 30 minutes. The teams will submit a written report of their proposed solution and the top 5 teams will also give a 5-minute talk about their findings.

Maths level

This competition is suitable for strong Year 11 and 12 mathematics students. It is aimed at students enrolled in Specialist Mathematics 1/2, Mathematical Methods 3/4 or Specialist Mathematics 3/4.

Prizes

All shortlisted teams and schools will receive certificates. Prizes will be awarded to the students in the top four teams based on their solution, written report and oral presentation.

1st Prize:  $800 per team

2nd Prize:  $600 per team

3rd Prize:  $400 per team

4th Prize:  $200 per team

Prizes will not be announced at the Real World Maths in Action fair. Schools with short listed teams will be informed the day after the fair. A letter announcing the winners together with the solutions of the MIT Challenge will be sent to all schools in term three.

EFTPOS gift cards and certificates will be presented at schools in term 3.

Photos

Photos will be taken of each of the shortlisted teams after they have presented their talks. Photos will be emailed to the schools in term 3.

Students who don't participate in the MIT Challenge can take part in the Short Problem Solving Competition.