Beast Academy is an advanced elementary math program from Art of Problem Solving that teaches mathematical reasoning and problem-solving through engaging comic book-style materials and challenging puzzles.
What is Beast Academy?
Created by Art of Problem Solving (AoPS), Beast Academy brings the same problem-solving emphasis that made AoPS famous in competitive mathematics to elementary students ages 6-13. Founded by Richard Rusczyk (USA Math Olympiad winner) and Jason Batterson (state champion MATHCOUNTS coach), the program treats mathematics as a creative discipline rather than a memorization exercise. Five levels roughly corresponding to grades 1-5 cover over 20,000 problems and puzzles. The signature comic book format teaches concepts through engaging storylines where mathematical conversations happen naturally between characters—making abstract concepts accessible while maintaining genuine rigor.
Key Takeaways
- Five levels (ages 6-13) with comic-style Guide books and Practice books
- Created by Art of Problem Solving, leaders in competitive math education
- Online subscription includes all levels, videos, and adaptive practice for $159/year
- Focuses on problem-solving and reasoning rather than drill and memorization
Format Options
Beast Academy offers print books, online curriculum, or bundles combining both. The comic book-style Guide books teach concepts through illustrated stories, while Practice books provide problems ranging from straightforward to genuinely challenging. Beast Academy Online includes all five levels with one subscription, adding instructional videos, adaptive games, and progress tracking. The online version works on any device with detailed, printable reports for parents. Print bundles for a complete grade level run approximately $118-150, while yearly online subscriptions cost $159 per student with sibling discounts available.
Who It's Best For
Beast Academy shines for children who find traditional math curricula boring. Students who enjoy puzzles, love challenges, and get frustrated by repetitive practice often thrive here. A WestEd study found students using Beast Academy 30 minutes weekly gained 1-2 grade levels on MAP assessments compared to non-users. However, the creators themselves say it's not designed for struggling math students. The program dives deep rather than providing extensive review, so students who need more repetition or slower pacing may find it frustrating. Consider taking the placement test—most families start 1-2 levels below grade level.
Comparison with Other Math Curricula
The Bottom Line
Beast Academy proves that rigorous mathematics can also be genuinely fun. For children who light up with puzzles and challenges, this curriculum transforms math from a chore into an adventure. The comic format, problem-solving emphasis, and depth of content create something unique in elementary math education. That said, it's not a comprehensive program in the traditional sense—some families supplement with additional practice or use it alongside a more systematic curriculum. Take the placement test before starting, expect to begin below grade level, and embrace the philosophy that struggling with hard problems builds mathematical thinking. For the right student, it's worth every penny.
