frequently asked questions
Find answers to common questions about the Scripps National Spelling Bee program, eligibility requirements, enrollment process, and more.
general information
What is the Scripps National Spelling Bee?
The Scripps National Spelling Bee is an educational competition focused on improving students' spelling skills, increasing their vocabularies, and helping them learn concepts that will help them throughout their lives. The program is administered on a not-for-profit basis by The E.W. Scripps Company.
When was the first Scripps National Spelling Bee held?
The first National Spelling Bee was held in 1925, making 2025 the 100th anniversary of the competition. The Bee has been held every year since, except in 1943-1945 due to World War II and in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Where is the Scripps National Spelling Bee held?
The Scripps National Spelling Bee is typically held at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland, just outside Washington, D.C.
When is the Scripps National Spelling Bee held?
The Scripps National Spelling Bee is typically held during the last week of May or the first week of June each year.
eligibility and enrollment
Who is eligible to participate in the Scripps National Spelling Bee?
Students in grades 1-8 who are under 15 years of age and who have not passed beyond grade 8 are eligible to participate, as long as their school is enrolled in the program.
Can homeschooled students participate?
Yes, homeschooled students are eligible to participate if they are enrolled in a homeschool that registers with the Scripps National Spelling Bee.
How does a school enroll in the program?
Schools can enroll online when enrollment opens. For the 2024-2025 program year, enrollment will open in August 2024.
What is the enrollment fee?
Enrollment fees for the 2024-2025 program year will be announced when enrollment opens in August 2024.
competition structure
How does the competition progress from school to national level?
The competition begins at the school level. School champions advance to a regional spelling bee (organized by a regional sponsor). Regional champions then advance to the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Some students may also qualify for the national finals through the RSVBee program if they are from an area without a regional sponsor.
What is the format of the Scripps National Spelling Bee?
The Scripps National Spelling Bee typically consists of multiple rounds, including preliminary rounds, quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals. The competition includes both oral spelling rounds and vocabulary questions.
What happens if there is no regional sponsor in my area?
If there is no regional sponsor in your area, your school's champion may be eligible to apply for the RSVBee program, which provides an opportunity for students from unsponsored regions to apply for an invitation to the national finals.
What is the Online Testing Platform?
The Online Testing Platform (OTP) is a digital tool that allows enrolled schools to host classroom, grade-level, and school spelling bee competitions digitally. Students participate in the same room at the same time but type their answers rather than spelling words orally.
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