The Challenge
Student Challenge Using Differential Equations Modeling (SCUDEM) is a mathematical modeling challenge for teams of up to three students. Each team selects one of three problems and develops a solution using differential or difference equation models.
Problem Choices
Teams of up to three students address one of the following three problem choices over the period of the challenge.
- Physics and Engineering
- Chemistry and Life Sciences
- Social Sciences
The competition culminates in a 10-minute presentation in which teams explain their model, methodology, and results.
What's in it for you?
Team camaraderie — students who participate in SCUDEM and COMAP's MCM/ICM frequently say that modeling in teams has been the best undergraduate experience they have had
Experience for graduate school or resume — develop work similar to higher level research or an industrial project
Insight to different applications of differential equations — these aren't your textbook problems
Call for Judges
SCUDEM needs volunteer judges (graduate students, faculty, industry) for a one-hour time commitment during the three week period November 13 – December 8, 2026 which occurs after the end of the SCUDEM Challenge Period.
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