Competitive debate that still promotes empathy, learning, and growth
Debating Matters: Transatlantic
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The program is open to public, private, charter, or homeschool students in grade 9-11 who are age 14 years or older by November 1, 2026, and eligible for travel to the United Kingdom in November of 2026.
What are the Two DMTA Qualifying Components?
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US Virtual Qualifier, Spring 2026 |
London Debating Matters: Transatlantic Program, Fall 2026 |
| A virtual qualifier competition where US-based students vie for a spot in the international cohort. | Top debaters from the Spring Qualifier join UK-based students in London for a 4-day program of cultural immersion, civic learning, and cross-cultural dialogue that culminates in a rigorous debate competition to represent their nation. |
How is DMTA Different?
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Substance Over Style Debating Matters prioritizes ‘substance over style,’ judging debaters based on arguments and research over style-driven rhetoric. |
Research Students are encouraged to research topics in advance using objective ‘topic briefs’ provided by Debating Matters (DM) and the Bill of Rights Institute (BRI). |
Real-World Topics Topics are real-world debates that are actively discussed in politics and media. |
Well-Respected Judges Judges are well-respected experts from a range of fields who judge and actively question the debaters to challenge their arguments. |
This program gives you the chance to experience beyond your own school, town, or country. You’ll engage in rigorous discussions with students from the US and the United Kingdom about the issues that matter to your generation—free speech, democracy, and global challenges. Together, you’ll discuss shared concerns, compare perspectives across two democracies, and strengthen your skills in argumentation, communication, and collaboration. DMTA will help sharpen your thinking, broaden your worldview, and prepare for the intellectual demands of college and beyond.
The DMTA experience includes a virtual debate competition, rigorous training, and a 4-day in-person program in London, UK.
The program is open to students in grades 9-11 (as of January 2026) that reside in any U.S. states, territory, and Armed Forces School Abroad. Students must have a valid passport that is eligible to travel to the United Kingdom in November 2026 to participate in the overseas competition.
Application process:
- Apply to the US Virtual Qualifier by answering 2 essay questions.
- Compete in the Virtual Qualifier.
- Get invited to apply for the in-person program in London.
- Apply for the London program.
While it can certainly help, you do not need debate experience to apply or participate! We encourage students from all backgrounds to apply and strengthen essential real-world skills.
The US Spring Qualifier will cover topic(s) most relevant to US students.
The Fall 2026 DMTA program in London will include topics that revolve around current issues affecting both nations.
Examples from previous Debating Matters competitions:
- "Humanity should fear advances in artificial intelligence.”
- “Cancel Culture is a threat to freedom of speech.”
- “Tech companies should act to stop online misinformation.”
DMTA uses Debating Matters’ unique 2 v. 2 format that includes
- A chairperson to objectively moderate the debate
- Three judges that ask debaters questions and provide quality feedback
- Two teams to present arguments and research
- An audience to direct challenging questions to the debaters
Personal financial commitment should be minimal. Finalists selected to London will receive a $800 airfare scholarship and all lodging and food will be provided for in London. Additional travel funds may be available. Contact Keinah Fort if you have additional questions.
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This program is partially funded by a multi-year $750,000 grant from Carnegie Corporation of New York, whose support helps us expand opportunities for young leaders. Their investment enables us to provide a high-quality experience that enhances students’ skills in debate and civic leadership.” |
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