Students who participate in the National Civics Bee® gain knowledge about American democracy, practice engaging respectfully and constructively, and build trust in others and institutions. As they compete for prizes, students strengthen their civics, writing, and public speaking skills, and form friendships with other young leaders along the way.
Students respond to four short-answer prompts proposing ideas to improve their communities. Application for the 2027 competition coming soon!
Judges select finalists to advance to regional competitions to compete for trophies, prizes, and recognition. Regional competitions take place in-person between late March and late May.
The top 3 winners from each regional competition advance to the State Finals, taking place from early June through July.
One finalist from each state receives a trip to the National Championship to compete for big prizes.
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply?
Students in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades residing in participating states may apply. Students from public, private, charter, and homeschools are all eligible.
Is there a cost to enter?
No. It is free for students to participate in the National Civics Bee.
What is the deadline to submit?
The application for the 2027 competition will open on Monday, September 7, 2026, at 6:01 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time and will close on Tuesday, February 2, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time.
What resources are available to help students prepare?
Students may use the Essay Guide to access the essay prompt, judging rubric, and support materials to help craft their essays. Finalists selected to advance to the live quiz competitions will receive a study guide and complimentary access to Khanmigo, Khan Academy’s AI-powered tutor.
How can I bring the National Civics Bee to my community?
Send an email like the one below to your local and/or state chamber of commerce encouraging them to become a partner.
Dear [Insert Local or State Chamber Here],
I’ve heard that the National Civics Bee® is expanding across America in partnership with local and state chambers. The intent of the competition is to encourage more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the competition inspires middle schoolers to become better informed about American democracy, to engage respectfully and constructively in the community, and to build greater trust in others and institutions. As an [educator/parent] in [Insert City, State], I believe that empowering our children with learning opportunities like the National Civics Bee is beneficial for our community and future. I’d love to see our chamber participate in this program.
You may learn more about participating in the Bee by contacting civictrust@uschamber.com. Please keep me posted on your efforts to bring the National Civics Bee® to our community.
Thank you,
[Insert Name]
Who runs the National Civics Bee?
Organized by The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the National Civics Bee® is an annual nonpartisan civics competition for middle schoolers that increases civics knowledge, skills, and disposition among young Americans, their families, and communities.
The Chamber Foundation partners with chambers of commerce across the country to host local and state bees. Study guides, quizzes, and support materials are produced in collaboration with the Bill of Rights Institute.
The competition is made possible with the generous support of The Daniels Fund, Citizen Travelers, the Wilson Garling Foundation, and other sponsors.
Student Voices
“I've had so much fun seeing Washington and meeting other kids from around the country. Learning about civics has given me a voice and a belief that I can make a change on the issues I care about.”
Aarit K. 1st Place, 2025 National Championship
Student Voices
“Young people can and should shape our democracy.”
Emily Brubaker1st Place, 2024 National Championship
Student Voices
“If there are issues we want to solve in our community, we can use our civic knowledge to ask the government to help. ”
Katia San JuanFinalist, 2025 National Championship
2026 National Civics Bee Locations
The 2026 National Civics Bee is open to 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students in all 50 states, D.C. and American Samoa. Use the interactive map below to browse the states participating in the 2026 competition. Filter by state or enter your zip code to see the Regional or Statewide Partner near you.
Resources
National Civics Bee® 2027 Student Essay Application Guide
Download the National Civics Bee® Essay Application Guide for step-by-step instructions to craft your essay. The guide includes the essay prompt, judging rubric, and helpful definitions and organizers.
Download the National Civics Bee® Student Flyer for an overview of the competition, including how to enter, the essay prompts, and prize opportunities. Share with your school and community to spread the word.
Use the 2027 Essay Application Guide to access the prompt and support materials.
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Review Contest Rules & Privacy Policy
Before you apply, review the 2027 Essay Round Rules and Privacy Policy.
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Submit your essay by February 2, 2027
The online application portal will open on Monday, September 7, 2026, and will close on Tuesday, February 2, 2027, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time. Portal link coming soon!
