
About the National Tournament
Since 1931, the National Speech and Debate Tournament has elevated public speaking. Every summer, more than 6,000 middle and high school students travel to the largest academic competition in the world to debate current events, voice their views, and share their stories. After months of preparation, rigorous qualifying tournaments, and five days of prestigious national competition, the best of the best will be crowned champions in front of a live audience of thousands and tens of thousands more streaming the events online.

Nationals 2025 Highlights
Students
Schools
Champions
Videos
Angad Singh Breaks Down His Award Winning Speech
Texas Teacher Who Built Speech Program From Scratch Surprised With $100,000 Gift
2025 Nationals Livestream Archive – Finals & Awards
Coaches Video
NSDA Student of the Year – Nationals 2025
It Begins With One
Oprah Winfrey Message
Middle School Hype Video
Resources
Road to Nationals
2025 Tournament Book
Nationals History Page
Nationals Newsletter
Become a Member
NSDA Centennial
Help take their stories to the stage!
Donate to provide more students with the resources they need to bring their stories to the stage.
Your organization can provide the platform for more than 6,000 students to share their stories. Learn more about becoming a sponsor.