The purpose of the contest is to provide recognition and encouragement to mathematically-talented high school students. Each year it attracts more than 100 students from more than 20 high schools throughout the county to participate in a two-part mathematics competition held on the UCSD campus in late April.

Students compete in eight person teams for both team and individual awards that are presented at a banquet dinner held at the Faculty Club about a week after the competition. The contest continues a tradition that promotes good relations with local high schools, teachers, and students.