The MATHCOUNTS program attracts 7,000 sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students to local sites throughout Ohio for a day of mathematics competition. The program is designed to heighten each student's awareness of the importance of mathematics.

The local MATHCOUNTS programs are held in mid-February. Each student participates as an individual and as part of a team. Around 250 students from the local competitions will advance to the statewide competition at Columbus State Community College in March. The top four individuals at the Ohio competition will progress to the National MATHCOUNTS Competition where they will compete against the top team from each state.