Illustrative Mathematics
Illustrative Mathematics: A free, open-source math curriculum with partner-dependent digital platform tools. Ranked #11 of 28 in K-12 Curriculum Platforms by our editors (6.4/10); pricing: Free plan; best for schools adopting free problem-based K–12 math.
At a glance
- Editor score6.4 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forSchools adopting free problem-based K–12 math
- Free planYes
- Standards alignmentYes
- Founded2011 · Oro Valley, Arizona, United States
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Complete TK–12 curriculum with standards-aligned content
- Free digital access plus downloadable and printable materials
- Assessments, implementation resources, and offline access
Where it doesn't
- Rostering and account management require partner platforms
- Assignments and reporting depend on certified partners
- Paid print and enhanced digital options vary by partner
Our verdict on Illustrative Mathematics
Illustrative Mathematics is an open-source, problem-based mathematics curriculum for transitional kindergarten through high school. It is designed for educators, schools, and districts seeking a coherent, standards-aligned core math program. The curriculum includes teacher and student materials, a TK–12 sequence, unit assessments, session checkpoints, implementation resources, and printable PDFs. Digital access is available through AccessIM, while materials can also support offline use. Its single-subject focus makes it a fit for schools selecting a dedicated mathematics program rather than a broad, multi-subject curriculum platform.
The free AccessIM curriculum includes the complete IM K–12 Math curriculum, digital access, downloadable and printable teacher and student materials, and implementation resources. The published plan structure also includes IM Certified partner options, which add print materials, enhanced digital platforms, student rostering and account management, assignment tools, reporting and progress monitoring, and implementation support. These paid options are distributed through certified partners, so schools should evaluate the specific partner offering alongside the curriculum itself. The free tier is particularly suitable for schools that can manage digital access and printed materials without requiring a single integrated administration layer.
Illustrative Mathematics stands out for the depth and openness of its curriculum materials. Problem-based lessons, standards alignment, assessments, checkpoints, and professional learning resources give educators a structured instructional sequence rather than a collection of standalone activities. The main trade-off is platform dependency: rostering, assignments, reporting, and progress monitoring are provided through partner platforms rather than as a fully self-contained IM environment. Schools prioritizing free, coherent math content should consider it closely; schools seeking built-in administrative workflows in one platform should focus on the capabilities of an IM Certified partner before choosing.
Illustrative Mathematics pricing
All 2 Illustrative Mathematics plans and prices →
Illustrative Mathematics fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Not verified |
| Grade band | K-12 |
| Subject scope | Single_subject |
| Standards alignment | Yes |
| Teacher tools | Yes |
| Built-in assessments | Yes |
| LMS integration | Not verified |
| Offline access | Yes |
| Deployment | Cloud |
| Platforms | Web |
| Support | Email, Phone, Docs |
| Built for | Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan (source) |
| Website | illustrativemathematics.org |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Illustrative Mathematics
- KiddomAn affordable K–12 curriculum platform with free access, AI tools, and paid course sets.9.6
- Imagine LearningA broad K–12 curriculum platform that connects instruction, assessment, reporting, and rostering.8.2
- HMH EdA broad K–12 platform combining curriculum, instruction, assessment, reporting, and AI tools.7.7
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Sep 2026
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