World Scholar's Cup

DLA | World Scholar's Cup

For the past 16 years, DebateOn Leadership Academy (formerly BC Forensic League) has been a proud member organization of the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA), helping students develop valuable lifelong skills in debate, public speaking, leadership, and confidence.

The World Scholar’s Cup is one of the world’s largest and most exciting academic competitions—bringing together students from across the globe to explore big ideas, build confidence, and compete as a team.
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Students explore a wide range of interdisciplinary subjects—including Science, History, Literature, Arts, and Social Studies—through activities designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking.
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From Vancouver Regionals to Global Rounds across major international cities, and ultimately to the Tournament of Champions at Yale University, students gain unforgettable experiences that combine learning, cultural and global exchange, and achievement.

WSC Highlights

• Team Debate
  Students debate real-world topics in teams of three—building confidence, critical thinking, and public speaking.
  
• Collaborative Writing
  Students respond to creative and analytical prompts, combining structured thinking with creativity.
  
• Scholar’s Challenge
  A multidisciplinary quiz covering subjects like science, history, literature, and more.
  
• Scholar’s Bowl
  A fast-paced team competition requiring quick thinking, teamwork, and strategy.
  
  Each year’s curriculum spans multiple disciplines—including science, history, literature, social studies, arts, and a special theme—encouraging students to explore big ideas across subjects, and make connections across fields.
  

A Clear Pathway to Excellence

• Students progress through:
  
• Regional Rounds (Vancouver and beyond)
  
• Global Rounds (cities like Seoul, Prague, Shanghai in 2026 )
  
• Tournament of Champions at Yale University
  

Is it right for my child?

• WSC is a strong fit for students who:
  
• Are curious and enjoy learning across subjects
• Want to build confidence in speaking and writing
  
• Thrive in collaborative, team-based environments
  
• No prior debate experience is required.
  ‍In fact, many students join with no background and join for the first time. Many successfully qualify in their very first year, as well as discover a new passion for debate, writing, and global learning!
  
  Accepting new students! Join us for 2026 WSC Global RoundIf you're part of a WSC school club and would like additional coaching and structured preparation, you are also welcome to join our program.
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What to expect:

• Weekly training sessions (online or in-person)
  
• Small group format for personalized guidance
• Structured preparation across all four WSC events: Team Debate, Collaborative Writing, Scholar’s Challenge, and Scholar’s Bowl
  
• Exposure to global-style academic questions that encourage curiosity and flexible thinking
  
• Team formation support and collaborative skill-building within class
  
• Structured coaching designed to prepare students for success at Regional Rounds, advancement to Global Rounds, and TOC