Life Smarts (USA)

LifeSmarts, established in 1994, is a program of the National Consumers League, the nation’s pioneering consumer organization. As the ultimate consumer challenge, is an educational opportunity for students in 6th-12th grade. Life Smarts fosters consumer and life skills literacy in middle and high school students, and empowers young people across the USA to develop the skills they need to be successful in an increasingly complex marketplace.

The free, national consumer education program is offered in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. More than 140,000 students receive instruction and compete on more than 3,000 teams each year. Thousands of educators take advantage of a wealth of free LifeSmarts resources to strengthen 21st century skills in their students. The program’s broad curriculum covers Personal Finance, Health and Safety, Technology, the Environment, and Consumer Rights and Responsibilities. The program complements the curriculum already in place in middle- and high-schools and can be used as an activity for classes, groups, clubs, and community organizations.

This unique program provides a variety of enriching experiences for youth including online, state, and national competitions. LifeSmarts is designed to help students develop critical thinking skills and expand leadership through service learning and teamwork. By competing in the online competition, Varsity LifeSmarts teams have the opportunity to advance to live state and national competitions. Each April, teams from around the country gather in a major city for four days of exciting competition, and a national LifeSmarts champion is crowned. These experiences help students to gain proficiency in making informed decisions that promote financial independence.

For more information visit the official website here. 

3/5.

All teams complete the seven competitions, then the top 16 advance to a knockout bracket, then the top four play as National Semifinalists

$

No registration fee and free resources; much of the contest can be done within state or online, but some travel cost may be required for Nationals

2/5.

Some knowledge is needed to do well, but participating in the event is also designed to increase knowledge and skills

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National event lasts four days

National Championship registration form