The National Economics Challenge
America’s premier competition for high school students
The tools of economic analysis teach students to think logically, use data smartly, and build analytic and problem-solving skills
Each year, close to 10,000 students from across the nation take the chance to shine while being tested on key micro and macroeconomic principles, as well as their knowledge of the world economy.
The National Economics Challenge provides a platform for high school students of economics to compete with their peers on a national scale and make themselves and their schools proud.
Building knowledge, confidence, and camaraderie
The National Economics Challenge has a unique method for engaging, motivating, and rewarding high school students, making it a fun learning experience they’ll never forget. Participants compete for cash prizes, recognition, and bragging rights in one of two divisions: The Adam Smith division is for advanced placement, baccalaureate, honors students, and returning competitors, and the David Ricardo Division is for students participating in the NEC for the first time and who have taken no more than one economics course.
Working in local teams with instructors and economics professionals serving as coaches, students compete first at the state level. The winning team from each state moves on to the First Round National Challenge to vie for their spot in the National Semi-Finals.
The top four teams in the semi-finals advance and receive an all-expense paid trip (excluding travel) to Atlanta to compete and earn cash prizes:
1st place $1,000 | 2nd place $500 | 3rd place $250 | 4th place $200
We’re proud to support young economics enthusiasts today, so they’re well-positioned to shape the very best tomorrow.
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