WSC Preparation Resource Library
In-depth guides, strategies, and study materials for every aspect of World Scholar's Cup preparation. From curriculum study guides to event-specific techniques.
2026 Theme: "Are We There Yet?"
Curriculum Study Guides
Subject-by-subject strategies for the 2026 curriculum
The WSC Difference
Science & Technology
Explores innovations, scientific discoveries, and their societal impacts tied to the annual theme.
History
Examines pivotal events, movements, and historical figures through the lens of the annual theme.
Social Studies
Covers economic systems, political structures, sociology, and global issues.
Arts & Music
Explores visual arts, music, architecture, film, and creative expressions across cultures.
Literature & Media
Covers novels, poetry, plays, and media connected to the annual theme.
Special Area
An interdisciplinary category integrating current events, ethics, and global challenges related to the theme.
Team Debate Resources
Master the unique WSC debate format and win debates
Format Overview
- Teams of 3 scholars debate against each other
- 15 minutes of preparation time before each debate
- Up to 4 minutes per speaker
- 60 seconds between speakers for team preparation
- 90 seconds for constructive feedback to opponents
- 3 debates per tournament on motions across all curriculum areas
2026 Rule Changes
Important Update
Collaborative Writing Resources
Craft compelling essays that stand out to judges
Format Overview
- 6 prompts provided (one per subject area)
- Team chooses 3 prompts; each member writes one different prompt
- 20 minutes initial team collaboration (no devices)
- 40 minutes individual writing time
- 15 minutes final collaboration for peer editing
- Handwritten essays - no devices allowed
Scoring Weight
Collaborative Writing contributes 18.75% of team total and 25% of individual score. While it's the lowest-weighted event, strong writing scores can significantly boost your overall standing.
No Devices
Scholar's Challenge Preparation
Master the 120-question test with strategic preparation
Test Format
- 120 multiple-choice questions
- 20 questions per subject (6 subjects)
- 60 minutes (Regional) or 75 minutes (Global/ToC)
- Unique multi-answer system - can mark multiple choices
- Individual event with team totals calculated
The Multi-Answer System
Unlike traditional tests, you can mark multiple answers. If the correct answer is among your choices, you earn points equal to 1 divided by the number of answers you marked.
| Answers Marked | Points |
|---|---|
| 1 answer(s) | 1.0 point if correct, 0 if wrong |
| 2 answer(s) | 0.5 points if correct answer included |
| 3 answer(s) | 0.33 points if correct answer included |
| 5 answer(s) | 0.2 points guaranteed |
Never Leave Blanks
Scholar's Bowl Preparation
Excel in the fast-paced team quiz competition
Format Overview
- Theater-style event with all teams competing simultaneously
- Multiple-choice questions displayed on large screen
- Teams use clickers to submit answers within time limit
- Standard questions: 15 seconds. Lightning rounds: 5 seconds
- Points increase as questions get harder
- Worth approximately 10,000 points - significant portion of total score
Question Types
Read carefully, discuss briefly with team, submit confidently
Trust your gut. Designate a "trigger finger" for quick answers.
Often include WSC in-jokes and pop culture. Stay alert for unusual framings.
High Stakes Event
Competition Timeline & Preparation Schedule
Plan your path from preparation to Tournament of Champions
Regional Round
Difficulty: Standard curriculum coverage
Challenge: Challenge: 60 minutes
Qualification: 50-70% of teams advance to Global
Preparation Tips
- Focus on solid curriculum coverage
- Build confidence through thorough preparation
- Experience the competition format
- Aim for Global Round qualification
Global Round
Difficulty: Deeper curriculum coverage, harder questions
Challenge: Challenge: 75 minutes
Qualification: Top teams qualify for Tournament of Champions
Preparation Tips
- Study curriculum in greater depth
- Prepare for more nuanced debate motions
- Expect questions requiring synthesis across subjects
- Focus on individual awards to stand out
Tournament of Champions
Difficulty: Most challenging level
Challenge: Challenge: 75 minutes
Qualification: Top scholars worldwide compete
Preparation Tips
- Know curriculum at expert level
- Prepare for the most challenging debate motions
- Expect questions that reward creative thinking
- Embrace the Yale experience and networking
2026 Dates
- Regional Rounds: January - July 2026 (worldwide)
- Global Rounds: Izmir, Kuala Lumpur, Prague, Seoul, Shanghai, Christchurch, Bangkok, Da Nang
- Tournament of Champions: November 12-18, 2026 at Yale University
Official WSC Resources
Essential links to official World Scholar's Cup materials
Official WSC Website
Registration, rules, competition calendar, and official announcements
Official Curriculum & Theme
2026 "Are We There Yet?" curriculum outlines and subject materials
Theme Materials
Detailed theme exploration, guiding questions, and curriculum resources
Competition Calendar
Regional Round dates and Global Round schedules worldwide
How to Start a Team
Information for new teams, schools, and first-time participants
FAQ & Rules
Frequently asked questions and official competition rules