The debate space is often blocked by barriers of cost, things like tournament fees, flights, and coaching make debate less accessible for students who aren’t as advantaged as others, and this is only further worsened by disparities in-round, like access to prep and evidence. As a debater that has been restricted from reaching the full ceiling of this activity because of this, I am thankful to the National Debate Club for giving me higher access, their aid is substantial and NDC is always able to work with families in order to ensure that every debater can do what they seek to do within debate. It’s not just about financial aid, it’s about leveling the playing field for debaters everywhere.
2024 Travel Team Student
Speech and Debate is the most effective teacher of critical thinking, communication, and confiedence. When a family invests in their child’s debate success they are launching them to a better and brighter future.
"Highschool debate was an experience that I can say without hesitation was the one activity that best prepared me in law and in life."
Read about KBJ's Debate Journey
Ketanji Brown Jackson
United States Supreme Court Justice
Top Tier College Acceptance Rates
Increase in Test Scores, According to NSDA
Increase in Analytical Skills, According to NSDA
Increase in Self-Esteem, According to NSDA
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Skills that Matter
Engaging with debate topics makes learning relevant and dynamic, fostering informed citizens who can articulate diverse perspectives and understand the world around them.
Debate's unparalleled ability to teach essential skills makes it the number one activity for Ivy League admittance. Almost 50% of the 2027 Harvard class competed in a debate activity.
Debate empowers students to articulate their thoughts clearly, handle adversity, and engage confidently in real-world discussions, enhancing their communication skills and self-assurance.
Debate involves research on a wide range of topics. The process not only enhances students' research skills but equips them with the ability to locate, analyze, and synthesize information.
Debate sharpens students’ critical thinking, requiring them to evaluate multiple perspectives, construct well-reasoned arguments, and respond to opposing views.
Whether your child wants to be a doctor, lawyer, or entrepreneur, learning effective written and oral communication is key to their success, and debate is the best teacher.
Get more information from our award winning team!
CDA offers both online classes across the country and in-person class in Chicago to fit students’ needs, ensuring flexibility and access to high-quality coaching regardless of location. The National Debate Club Travel Team is hosted online with in-person and online tournaments.
Getting started is simple! Explore our class options with our easy to use class search tool or apply to join the National Debate Club for a competitive travel team.
CDA provides a full-service academy experience, combining accountability, regular progress evaluations, competitive travel teams, and introductory classes. With everything students need to excel in debate, CDA ensures you never have to look elsewhere.
The National Debate Club is CDA’s elite competitive travel team, designed for top-performing students who are ready to compete on the national circuit. Members receive advanced coaching, access to top-tier tournaments, and support to secure TOC bids and achieve success at the highest levels of debate. Click here to learn more!
Civic Debate Academy (CDA) is a premier debate coaching organization dedicated to helping students improve critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills through expert-led classes, workshops, and competitive travel teams.