National Civics Bee

About the Competition

Take your shot at cash, prizes, and national recognition—including a $100,000 contribution to a 529 education savings account for the 2026 National Champion! Modeled after traditional spelling and geography bees, the competition offers students the opportunity to share their ideas for improving their communities, showcase their passion for civics, and earn exciting rewards. The winner of the National Civics Bee® California and Washington, D.C. State Finals will also win a trip to Washington, D.C., to compete in the National Civics Bee® Championship in Fall 2026. Additionally, thanks to the generous support of the Fisher Global Foundation, the first-place winner in each state can secure a $5,000 donation for their school, along with their own prizes and accolades. 

Why Civics

We are hosting the National Civics Bee® California and Washington, D.C. State Finals Summer 2026 because we believe that informed and active citizens make for a strong country, a strong economy, and a strong workforce, and that our continued prosperity depends on the strength of all three. Through the Bee, we are promoting greater civic knowledge throughout California and celebrating our civic pride.

Students in 6th, 7th, or 8th grade who reside in California or any participating state are invited to submit four paragraphs using guided prompts in the Essay Guide on how they can make a difference in their community. Each student may participate in one local competition within their state. To qualify, essays must be submitted no later than Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time. For the latest updates on the application portal, entry deadlines, and helpful resources, be sure to visit our website.

Students should review the Contest Rules and Essay Guide below and then apply using the following link: 2026 National Civics Bee® Application.