Explore student competitions.

QUICK SUMMARY

Rated Beginner, The Scripps National Spelling Bee is the final stage of a school and regional pathway built around live oral spelling and vocabulary study. Students must meet the 2027 grade, age and school-enrollment rules and qualify through the pathway serving their area. The greatest demands are sustained vocabulary preparation, precise recall and composure during a live elimination format.

QUICK SUMMARY

Rated Advanced, A published-work contest covering student writing, visual journalism, broadcast, video and yearbook communications. High school students and eligible recent graduates enter through state affiliates or At-Large, with overseas access specifically for Department of Defense schools. The main challenge is selecting and presenting coherent original work that satisfies its category criteria and publication requirements.

QUICK SUMMARY

Rated Intermediate, Voice of Democracy combines essay writing with vocal delivery: students must shape a personal response to an annual civic theme and make it work as a short audio performance. Eligible grades 9-12 students submit through a participating local VFW Post under the official residency rules. Strong entries need an authentic point of view, a tightly structured script, memorable supporting detail, and controlled delivery within three to five minutes.