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National Speech & Debate Tournament
Location:
Des Moines, Iowa (in-person)
Cost:
Approximately $75 per solo event, $150 per team event, and $225 for World Schools Debate; entry fees may vary by event type and additional fees may apply for supplemental categories
Contest Date:
June 15–20, 2025
Application Deadlines:
Typically opens mid‑March and closes around early June
Eligibility:
High school students who qualify via NSDA district tournaments or Last‑Chance Qualifier
This is the premier national tournament hosted by the National Speech & Debate Association, drawing over 6,000 of the nation’s top high school speech and debate competitors across 12 main event categories. Participants compete in both speech and debate disciplines, culminating in elimination rounds during the final rounds. Finals are often live-streamed. Alumni include notable public figures like Oprah Winfrey and Stephen Colbert.
Please note: This information is compiled from publicly available sources and may change from year to year. Dates, locations, fees, and other details are subject to updates—please verify all information directly on the official competition website before applying.
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