National Civics Bee 2026
NC State University's Department of Public Administration is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to encourage young Americans to engage in civics.
National Civics Bee 2026
Calling All Middle School Students! Share your ideas and flex your civics knowledge in the National Civics Bee®
About the Bee
NC State’s Department of Public Administration is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host a nonpartisan civics competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Participating 6th, 7th and 8th graders will flex their civics knowledge for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes. Finalists will be invited to Washington, D.C. to compete in the National Civics Bee National Championship in Fall 2026.
Why Civics?
We are hosting the National Civics Bee North Carolina State Finals 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 North Carolina and celebrating our civic pride.
How to Enter
Any 6th, 7th, or 8th grade student residing in North Carolina with an idea about using civics to improve their community may submit their application to participate in the competition. All applications must be submitted by Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Hawaii Time (Wednesday, February 18, 2026, 5:59 a.m. for North Carolina Residents.)
Visit www.nationalcivicsbee.org for the latest news on the application portal, entry deadlines, and resources.
Students should review the Contest Rules below and then apply using the link below.
Contest Rules
Resources/Additional Information
- Educator Toolkit
- Essay Application Guide
- National Civics Bee Highlights Video
- National Civics Bee Website
- Student Flyer
Regional Competitions
- Clayton Chamber of Commerce
- Roanoke Chamber of Commerce
- Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce
- YMCA of the Triangle
State Finals
The State Finals will be hosted at 1 p.m.
on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at
NC State University, James B. Hunt Jr. Library,
Duke Energy Hall, 1070 Partners Way,
Rooms 2011A-D, Raleigh, NC.
State Finals
The State finals will be hosted at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at NC State University in the James B. Hunt Library, Duke Energy Hall, Second floor. Bookmark this website for updates.
There will be awards and prizes for the top-three finishes:
- First Place – $1,000.00
- Second Place – $500.00
- Third Place – $250.00
Sponsorship Opportunities
Are you interested in showcasing your company’s commitment to developing active and engaged citizens? For information about available corporate sponsorships, contact NCCivicsbee@ncsu.edu.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or need any additional information, contact NCCivicsBee@ncsu.edu.