About the Academic Decathlon

The Academic Decathlon is a series of interscholastic competitions for high school teams nationwide. The Decathlon encourages, recognizes and rewards academic effort and excellence.

It’s All Teamwork

The Decathlon tests knowledge and academic skills - but isn’t just for the class genius. One of the unique features of the Decathlon is that each team represents a range of achievement levels. The team consists of three students who have "A" averages, three with "B" averages and three with "C" averages. To prepare for competition, the team members begin working and studying together early in the fall. On competition day, all nine team members take the same tests, participate in the same events, and are judged by the same criteria. The team’s final score depends on the performances of ALL its members.

The Big Ten

The Decathlon competition consists of the following 10 events: * six written, multiple-choice tests (mathematics, science, social sciences, economics, literature, and fine arts) * speech (prepared and impromptu) * written essay * interview by a panel of business persons * Super Quiz (the only public portion - a truly exciting climax to the day-long competition)

State and National Competition

Four regional decathlons are held throughout New Jersey in early March. The regional winners take part in the State Decathlon three weeks later. The highest scoring team represents New Jersey at the United States Academic Decathlon.

The New Jersey Experience

Over 70 high schools in New Jersey have been participating in the regional competitions. Newcomers are lcomed each year.

The Funding Process

ADNJ is supported through registration fees paid by participating high schools and corporate contributions. We are grateful for the support of our friends in business and industry who make education a high priority.