Speech Debate India x Harvard Debate Council Championship Series
SDI x Harvard Debate Certificate
SDI x Harvard Debate Council Championship Series brings U.S. Research-Based Debate to students in grades 4-12, with tournaments in three Indian cities, national rankings, and a certificate for all.
Mode
In-Person
Fee
₹11,000 for a 2-day event, ₹16,500 for a 3-day event, plus GST
Participation format
Team
Teams of 2
Duration
3 days per tournament
Time needed
2 days on a school-term weekend, 3 days in the holidays
Eligibility
Open to students in grades 4-12 across India and internationally. Students compete in age-appropriate divisions: Elementary School (grades 4-5), Middle School (grades 6-8), and High School (grades 9-12).
- Grade level
- Grade 4 to 12
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Certificate
SDI x Harvard Debate Council Certificate
All participants receive a certificate co-branded by Speech Debate India and the Harvard Debate Council, regardless of placement.
Recognized by
Recognition
National Rankings across all city tournaments
Skills your child builds
Key dates
- Competition
- 24 Oct 2026 to 10 Jan 2027
Ahmedabad leg (Riverside School) and online
31 October and 1 November 2026.
Mumbai leg and online
How to apply
- 1Online registration
- 2Payment of registration fee
Rules and guidelines
- Students compete in pairs in the U.S. Research-Based Debate format.
- Teams are placed in their age-appropriate division: Elementary (grades 4-5), Middle (grades 6-8), or High School (grades 9-12).
- Teams may participate in multiple city tournaments within the season.
- Teams must consist of two students
- A registration fee of Rs. 16,500 is required per team per city tournament
- Participants must adhere to the U.S. Research-Based Debate (USRBD) format and rules
Fees and financial support
Fee details
Rs 5,500 per day plus GST for each child: Rs 11,000 for a 2-day school-year weekend event and Rs 16,500 for a 3-day holiday-period event. It covers the preparation pack, the Day 1 workshop, the championship rounds, judge feedback and the certificate; in-person events include meals. UPI or bank transfer has no extra fee; cards and net banking add 2%. No refunds once registration is confirmed.
About this opportunity
The Speech Debate India x Harvard Debate Council Championship Series is an annual competitive debating event that brings the U.S. Research-Based Debate (USRBD) format to Indian students in grades 4 through 12. Students compete in pairs, researching and debating a live national policy resolution, judged on argument quality, evidence use, and delivery.
The championship is organized by Speech Debate India in partnership with the Harvard Debate Council and runs across three major Indian cities in a single season. Each city hosts a three-day in-person tournament, and teams may compete at one or more city venues. Students compete in three age-appropriate divisions: Elementary School (grades 4-5), Middle School (grades 6-8), and High School (grades 9-12).
All participants receive a certificate co-branded by Speech Debate India and the Harvard Debate Council. National rankings are published at the close of the season across all participating teams.
The programme is open to students across India and internationally. Registration is per team (pair of two students) with a fee of Rs. 16,500 per city tournament.
Rounds and format
Each three-day tournament features paired rounds followed by elimination brackets. Students compete in their respective division (Elementary, Middle, or High School). Judging uses the U.S. Research-Based Debate scoring criteria.
How entries are judged
Pairs are evaluated on argument quality, use of evidence, rebuttal effectiveness, and presentation delivery in the U.S. Research-Based Debate format.
Selection process
National rankings are determined by cumulative performance across all city tournament results within the season.
Academic details
Difficulty: Intermediate
Frequently asked questions
How do students typically prepare for this competition to maximize their chances of success?
Effective preparation involves consistent practice in the U.S. Research-Based Debate format, thorough research on policy resolutions, and engaging in mock debates. Focusing on evidence analysis, argument construction, and rebuttal strategies is crucial for strong performance.
What strategies can participants employ to manage competitive pressure and perform optimally during the tournament?
Participants can manage pressure by practicing mindfulness, maintaining a healthy routine, and focusing on their individual performance rather than external outcomes. Effective time management during prep time and clear communication with their partner are also key.
How are national rankings determined, and what is the significance of achieving a high ranking in this series?
National rankings are calculated based on cumulative performance across all city tournaments a team participates in throughout the season. A high ranking provides national recognition, enhances a student's competitive profile, and can be beneficial for future academic and extracurricular pursuits.
What are some common mistakes participants make during the debate rounds, and how can they be avoided?
Common mistakes include insufficient evidence to support claims, poor time management during speeches, and failing to directly address opponents' arguments. Avoiding these requires rigorous preparation, strategic planning, and active listening during rounds.
How does participation in this championship series contribute to a student's long-term academic and career development?
Participation significantly enhances critical thinking, research, public speaking, and analytical skills, which are invaluable in academic settings and diverse career paths. The experience also builds confidence, resilience, and the ability to articulate complex ideas effectively.
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