# DECA (High School Division)

International career and technical student organization where high schoolers compete in role-play and prepared events across marketing, finance, hospitality, and entrepreneurship.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | DECA Inc. |
| Category | business |
| Cost | Not listed |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 9–12 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | Check official site |
| Time commitment | ~3 hours/week |
| Apply | https://www.deca.org/membership |

## About this program

## Overview

**DECA** prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. Its high-school division has over 175,000 members in school-based chapters across the U.S. and internationally.

## How It Works

- Members compete in **role-play events** (you're handed a business scenario and present a solution to a judge) and **prepared events** (written business plans, marketing campaigns, and research projects)
- Competition advances from **district** to **state/association conferences** to the **International Career Development Conference (ICDC)** each April
- Chapters also run school stores, community projects, and leadership conferences during the year

## Why It Matters

- DECA glass-trophy wins and ICDC qualification are widely recognized credentials for business-oriented applicants
- Role-plays build practical communication and case-analysis skills used in business school and consulting recruiting
- Officer roles (chapter, district, state) are substantive leadership positions

## Getting Involved

- Join your school's DECA chapter (or work with a business teacher to charter one)
- Pick a competitive event aligned with your interests in the fall; districts typically run December-February

## Frequently asked questions

### Who is eligible for DECA (High School Division)?

DECA (High School Division) is open to high school students in grades 9–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is DECA (High School Division) online or in person?

DECA (High School Division) is an in-person program. Expect a time commitment of roughly 3 hours per week.

### How do I apply to DECA (High School Division)?

Apply directly through DECA Inc.'s official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-27.
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