Putnam Exam

The Putnam exam is a nationwide competitive exam administered each year on the first Saturday in December. A faculty member conducts coaching sessions for students who are interested in competing.

Information on Fall 2024 Putnam preparation sessions can be found on the Putnam seminar website.

Columbia Prizes

Several prizes for excellence in mathematics are awarded each year to undergraduates, based on performance on a prize exam scheduled each spring. These include:

Columbia College Prizes

THE PROFESSOR VAN AMRINGE MATHEMATICS PRIZE

This prize, established in 1910 by George G. Dewitt, Class of 1867, may be awarded to a first year, a sophomore, and a junior student in the College who are deemed most proficient in the mathematical subjects designated during the year of the award.

THE JOHN DASH VAN BUREN, JR. PRIZE IN MATHEMATICS

Established in 1906 by Mrs. Louis T. Hoyt in memory of her nephew, John Dash Van Buren, Jr., Class of 1905, this prize may be awarded to a Columbia College senior degree candidate who writes the best examination in subjects prescribed by the Mathematics Department.

Barnard College Prizes

MARGARET KENNEY JENSEN PRIZE

Established in 1973. To first-year students, sophomores and juniors for excellence in mathematics.

KOHN MATHEMATICAL PRIZE

Established in 1892. To a senior for excellence in mathematics.

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