Some of the nation's finest middle and high school students will compete in the National Invitational from May 15-16, 2026. In simulated congressional hearings, they'll compete in front of scholars, public officials, judges, and other experts, showcasing their knowledge of America's Constitution and government. Every student will walk away with a lasting experience, rooting them in democracy and their communities.
The We the People curriculum features a culminating activity where students take positions on historical and contemporary constitutional issues. A panel of volunteer judges serves as faux legislators in a mock congressional hearing. Students testify as expert witnesses, displaying their knowledge of government and the U.S. Constitution. Following a four-minute prepared speech, students field follow-up questions from the judges, after which they are scored on their overall performance.
The National Invitational allows both high school and middle school teams that have competed at a school-wide, regional, district, or state level. Full eligibility requirements and rules are reviewed each year. Please feel free to contact us with any inquiries about how your team may qualify for the National Finals.
The National Finals and National Invitational always benefit from dedicated volunteers, but that's not the only way to get involved. Help bring the Center's programs to your state, or access our self-guided learning tools. Join our alumni network, or invest in civic education through your financial support. Learn all the ways you can get involved today!
About the Invitational
Some of the nation's finest middle and high school students will compete in the National Invitational from May 15-16, 2026. In simulated congressional hearings, they'll compete in front of scholars, public officials, judges, and other experts, showcasing their knowledge of America's Constitution and government. Every student will walk away with a lasting experience, rooting them in democracy and their communities.
What Are Simulated Congressional Hearings?
Who is Eligible to Compete?
Where and When is the Invitational Held?
The National Invitational is live-streamed online. The next annual event will take place May 15-16, 2026.
National Invitational teams may participate from their home state or choose to travel to Washington, D.C. If a team decides to travel, virtual hearing rooms will be arranged at the students’ hotel. Travel, lodging, and tour arrangements for classes can be organized through Grand Classroom or another travel vendor of a team's choice. The Center for Civic Education manages all other aspects of the National Invitational.
How is the Competition Formatted?
What are Team Fees and Travel Costs?
We the People Invitational Awards
The National Invitational Awards Ceremony will include the announcement of the top-three teams and unit award winners. The awards will be announced on Monday, May 18.
Event Schedules
Detailed event schedules, including hearing assignments and locations for specific events, will be released closer to the National Invitational dates. Please check back here for updates, or make sure you're signed up for the Center's newsletter.
