International Competition for Young Debaters (ICYD) India Selection
by Indian Schools Debating Society (ISDS)
Represent India at ICYD
600 participants
The ICYD India Selection by ISDS identifies top debaters aged 16 and under to represent India at the prestigious Oxford Union. Open to pairs, the competition tests logic and persuasion, offering a global platform for young, aspiring speakers.
Mode
Online
Fee
₹3,000
Participation format
Team
Teams of 2
Duration
One day for selection rounds
Eligibility
Open to students aged 12-16 (typically Grades 7-10) studying in any school across India. Participants must be born on or after August 31, 2009, and register in teams of two from the same school. A preference is given to teams with at least one female member.
- Grade level
- Grade 7 to 10
- Age range
- 12 to 15 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- Must be studying in a school in India.
- Prerequisites
- Prior debating experience is highly recommended
- Strong communication and analytical skills are beneficial
- Commitment to put the National Team above all other extra curricular activities
- Willingness to work hard and learn more about the world
- Love for debate and a healthy competitive spirit
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Certificate
Certificate of Participation
Participants will receive a Certificate of Participation or Achievement.
Recognized by
Recognition
International recognition
Skills your child builds
Key dates
Last edition
- Registration opened
- 15 Feb 2026
- Registration closed
- 7 Mar 2026
- Competition
- 14 Mar 2026 to 20 Mar 2026
- Results
- 27 Mar 2026
How to apply
- 1Students must submit an online application form. Applicants are evaluated based on their access to debate opportunities, motivation, commitment, and readiness for independent work. Selected applicants will be notified and required to complete a registration form along with paying the fee.
Rules and guidelines
- Teams must consist of two members from the same school.
- Participants must be born on or after August 31, 2009.
- The competition follows the British Parliamentary (BP) debating format.
- Topics for two rounds are released three days in advance, while topics for the other two are released 30 minutes prior to the debate.
- Each team can apply only once in the selection cycle and only in their regional round.
Technology requirements
- Stable internet connection
- Computer or laptop with webcam and microphone
- Zoom application
Fees and financial support
Fee details
The registration fee is INR 1500 per student, totaling INR 3000 per team for the India Selection process.
About this opportunity
The International Competition for Young Debaters (ICYD) India Selection is a national competition organized by the Indian Schools Debating Society (ISDS). It aims to select a team of two young debaters to represent India at the prestigious International Competition for Young Debaters (ICYD), hosted alternately by the Cambridge and Oxford Unions in the UK. This event provides a significant global platform for aspiring speakers.
Students born on or after August 31, 2009, and studying in a school in India are eligible to participate. Teams must consist of two members from the same school, with a preference for at least one female member. Successful participants gain the unique opportunity to represent India on an international stage, fostering critical thinking, public speaking, and analytical skills through intensive training and mentorship.
Rounds and format
The selection process involves four online debating rounds conducted in the British Parliamentary format. Topics for two rounds are released three days in advance, allowing for preparation, while topics for the remaining two rounds are announced 30 minutes prior to the debate.
How entries are judged
Participants are evaluated on their speaking ability, logical argumentation, effective rebuttal, knowledge of world affairs, and overall teamwork. Improvement shown over time is also a key factor in the assessment.
Selection process
Applicants are evaluated based on their access to debate opportunities, motivation, commitment, readiness for independent work, and performance in the debating rounds.
Academic details
Difficulty: Advanced
What's covered
British Parliamentary debating format
Frequently asked questions
What are the key strategies for students to excel in this debating competition?
Students should focus on developing strong logical argumentation, effective rebuttal techniques, and clear public speaking skills. Consistent practice with diverse topics and understanding the British Parliamentary format are crucial for success.
How can participants manage performance anxiety during the competitive rounds?
Effective strategies include thorough preparation, practicing relaxation techniques, and focusing on the learning experience rather than solely on winning. Building confidence through mock debates and receiving constructive feedback can also be beneficial.
What common mistakes should students avoid during the selection process?
Common pitfalls include insufficient research on debate topics, failing to adapt to impromptu motions, neglecting teamwork and coordination with partners, and not actively engaging with points of information (POIs) from opposing teams.
How are the judging criteria applied to determine the top debaters?
Judges evaluate participants based on speaking ability, logical argumentation, effective rebuttal, knowledge of world affairs, and overall teamwork. Improvement shown over time and the ability to apply feedback are also key factors in the assessment.
What is the long-term impact of participating in a competition of this caliber?
Participation significantly enhances critical thinking, public speaking, and analytical skills. It provides international exposure, networking opportunities, and a strong foundation for future academic and professional pursuits, regardless of selection for the national team.
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