Beast Academy is a math program for kids ages 6-13, created by Art of Problem Solving. It focuses on problem-solving through engaging stories and challenges, rather than rote memorization.
Research from the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) shows that homeschooled students typically score 15 to 25 percentile points higher than public school students on standardized academic achievement tests. A peer-reviewed study published in Peabody Journal of Education found that homeschooled children are typically well-adjusted socially and score above average on measures of social skills, emotional development, and daily living skills (Richard Medlin, 2013).
What is Beast Academy?
Beast Academy is a math program for kids ages 6-13, made by Art of Problem Solving (AoPS). Founded by Richard Rusczyk and Jason Batterson, it emphasizes creative problem-solving instead of just memorizing. The program has five levels, covering grades 1-5, with over 20,000 problems and puzzles. The unique comic book format teaches math through fun stories. This approach makes tough concepts easier to understand while still being challenging.
Format options
You can choose from print books, an online curriculum, or bundles that mix both. The comic-style Guide books introduce concepts through illustrated stories, while Practice books have problems that range from easy to hard. With Beast Academy Online, you get access to all five levels with one subscription. It also includes instructional videos, adaptive games, and progress tracking. You can use it on any device and get printable reports for parents. Print bundles for one grade level cost about $118-150, and a yearly online subscription is $159 per student, with sibling discounts available.
Who it’s best for
Beast Academy is great for kids who find regular math boring. If they love puzzles and challenges but dislike repetitive practice, they’ll do well here. A WestEd study found that kids using Beast Academy for 30 minutes a week improved by 1-2 grade levels on MAP tests compared to those who didn’t. However, it’s not meant for kids who struggle with math. The program dives deep into topics, so kids needing more repetition might feel lost. It's a good idea to take the placement test—most families begin 1-2 levels below their grade.
The bottom line
Beast Academy shows that math can be fun. For kids who enjoy challenges, this program turns math into an adventure. The comic format, focus on problem-solving, and in-depth content make it stand out in elementary math education. That said, it’s not a typical program—some families choose to add extra practice or pair it with another curriculum. Remember to take the placement test, expect to start below grade level, and understand that facing tough problems helps build math skills. For the right student, it’s worth the investment.
