Earn the DECA Glass: Your Ultimate Guide to Winning DECA Competitions

DECA Competition Overview

The DECA Glass is the most prestigious award in DECA’s competitive events, symbolizing excellence in business strategy, critical thinking, and leadership. Winning this award is a testament to a student's ability to solve real-world business challenges and demonstrate professionalism, innovation, and analytical skills—all of which are crucial in today’s competitive business landscape.

DECA, short for Distributive Education Clubs of America, is an international nonprofit organization dedicated to preparing high school and college students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. With over 227,000 members across all 50 U.S. states, Canada, Puerto Rico, and Germany, DECA is widely recognized for its high-caliber participants and its ability to shape future business leaders. Many DECA alumni have gone on to attend Ivy League universities and other world-renowned institutions, and many have become successful entrepreneurs, executives, and industry leaders.

One of DECA’s core components is its Competitive Events Program, which allows students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world business scenarios. The competition is structured into three levels—district, state, and international (ICDC)—where students compete in events that span four major career clusters:

• Marketing
• Finance
• Hospitality & Tourism
• Business Management & Administration

Additionally, DECA offers specialized competitions in Entrepreneurship and Personal Financial Literacy, ensuring that students can compete in areas that align with their career interests and aspirations.

Competitors engage in a variety of practical business challenges, including role-plays, case studies, written business plans, and online business simulations. These competitions bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience, often incorporating industry partnerships and mentorship to provide students with valuable career exposure.

The ultimate goal? To prepare students to become the next generation of business leaders. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your problem-solving abilities, expand your professional network, or gain hands-on experience in business, competing in DECA—and striving for the coveted DECA Glass—is an unparalleled opportunity.

Why Participate in the DECA Competition?

Participating in DECA is more than just a competition—it’s an investment in your future. Winning or even competing in DECA events gives students an edge in college applications, job interviews, and business careers. Here’s why DECA is worth your time:

1. Real-World Business Experience
   • DECA competitions require you to think like a business executive. You’ll be solving problems in marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship—skills that are directly applicable to future careers.
   • Case studies and role-plays mimic actual business challenges, such as launching a product, resolving financial issues, or developing a marketing campaign.
2. Boost Your College Applications & Scholarship Opportunities
   • Colleges and universities value DECA involvement as it demonstrates leadership, strategic thinking, and public speaking skills.
   • DECA members have access to exclusive scholarship opportunities from business schools and corporate sponsors.
3. Network with Business Professionals & Industry Leaders
   • Competing in DECA events allows you to meet CEOs, entrepreneurs, and recruiters who can offer guidance and career opportunities.
   • You’ll also interact with like-minded, ambitious students who share your passion for business and leadership.
4. Enhance Your Leadership & Public Speaking Skills
   • Whether you’re pitching a business plan or answering judges’ questions in a role-play, DECA strengthens your ability to speak confidently and persuasively.
   • Learning to think on your feet in high-pressure situations is a valuable skill that will serve you well in any career.
5. Stand Out in Job & Internship Applications
   • Employers are looking for candidates with problem-solving skills, business acumen, and leadership experience—all of which DECA provides.
   • Many past DECA competitors have landed internships and job offers due to their performance in DECA events.

By participating in DECA, you’re not just competing—you’re preparing for success in business and beyond.

Who Can Participate in the DECA Competition?

DECA competitions are open to high school and college students who are members of an official DECA chapter. To participate, you must:

• Be an active DECA member (membership registration is required).
• Be enrolled in a business, marketing, finance, or entrepreneurship-related course (varies by school and state).
• Select a competitive event that aligns with your skills and interests.

DECA offers different competition levels to accommodate students of all experience levels:

• Principles of Business Administration Events – Ideal for first-time competitors and underclassmen.
• Individual Series Events – For students with experience in business concepts.
• Team Decision-Making Events – Perfect for those who enjoy collaborating with others.
• Written Events & Business Plans – Designed for students who excel in research and strategy.

No matter your background or skill level, DECA has a competition that fits your strengths and interests.

Schedule and Deadline

Key Dates for DECA Competitions (2024-2025)

• District & Regional Competitions: Fall 2024 – Winter 2025 (varies by state)
• State-Level Competitions: February – March 2025
• International Career Development Conference (ICDC): April 2025 (Anaheim, CA)

Important Deadlines

• Membership Registration Deadline: February 15, 2025
• Competitive Event Registration Deadline: Varies by state and district
• Written Event Submission Deadline: Typically 1-2 months before the competition

To compete at ICDC, you must first qualify through district and state-level competitions. Speak with your DECA advisor to confirm your competition timeline.

DECA Competition Fees

To participate in DECA competitions, students must first become registered DECA members and pay the associated membership dues and competition fees. Registration is typically handled through your school’s DECA chapter or directly on the DECA official website.

Membership & Registration Costs

The total cost for membership and regional competition participation is $25 USD per person, which includes:

• $8 USD for DECA Inc. Membership Dues
• $8 USD for State/Provincial DECA Membership Dues
• $9 USD for Regionals Fee (covers online testing and regional competition)

 Important Notes:

• No cancellations, refunds, or membership changes after October 1.
• Payments must be made through your teacher advisor or the school’s online payment portal.
• If using a school payment system, be mindful of potential exchange rate adjustments (for international students).

Additional Costs to Consider

While the base registration fee covers membership and regional competitions, students should also budget for additional competition-related expenses:

• Travel & Accommodation: If you qualify for state or international competitions, you may need to budget for transportation, hotel stays, and meals.
• Presentation Materials: Some written and prepared events may require marketing materials, printed reports, or product samples.
• Business Attire: DECA competitions require professional business dress, which may include a DECA blazer, dress shoes, and formal business attire.

While these costs may vary depending on your location and level of competition, it’s important to plan ahead to ensure you’re fully prepared for each stage of the DECA journey! 

DECA Competition Questions Format

DECA Competition Question Format & Competition Structure

DECA competitions follow a structured format, with students competing in individual or team-based events. Each event falls into one of three main categories:

Role-Plays & Case Studies

Format:

• Competitors receive a business scenario related to marketing, finance, hospitality, or entrepreneurship.
• Given 10-30 minutes to analyze the situation and develop a solution.
• Present their solution to a judge acting as a business professional or executive.
• Evaluated on creativity, business knowledge, and communication skills.

Written & Prepared Events

Format:

• A long-term competition that requires competitors to research, analyze, and develop a business report or presentation.
• Students must submit a 10-30 page business report and deliver a 15-minute presentation to a panel of judges.
• Examples include business plans, research projects, and integrated marketing campaigns.
• Evaluated on depth of research, strategic planning, and execution.

Online Business Simulations

Format:

• A virtual simulation where students manage a digital business and compete against others in a realistic industry setting.
• Covers industries such as retail, sports, and hospitality.
• Evaluated on business performance, decision-making, and financial strategy.

No matter which competition format you choose, DECA challenges you to think like a business professional, develop real-world skills, and compete at the highest level. 

Special Reminders

Competing in DECA is not just about demonstrating business knowledge—it’s also about presenting yourself professionally and confidently. One of the biggest opportunities at DECA competitions is the chance to network with other students, industry professionals, and potential mentors. Take the initiative to introduce yourself, engage in meaningful conversations, and build connections that could benefit your future career. Additionally, your appearance and attire play a crucial role in making a strong impression.

According to the DECA 2024-2025 Official Guide, competitors are required to wear an official DECA blazer when interacting with judges. While the blazer is not mandatory during briefings and tests, professional business attire is required for all competition sessions, including workshops, networking events, and special dining functions such as luncheons.

To ensure a polished and professional look, competitors are also encouraged to wear appropriate hosiery or socks. Paying attention to these small details not only enhances your personal presentation but also reflects your dedication, professionalism, and readiness for the business world. Be prepared, dress the part, and make the most of this valuable experience!

How to Prepare for the DECA Contest

In DECA competitions, Performance Indicators are the key business concepts and skills that judges use to evaluate competitors’ responses. These indicators are derived from National Curriculum Standards and are designed to align with real-world industry expectations, ensuring that students develop practical, career-ready competencies in their chosen field.

Each DECA event is structured around a specific set of Performance Indicators, which vary based on the competition category and industry cluster. For example, Marketing events may focus on consumer behavior, branding, and promotional strategies, while Finance events emphasize budgeting, financial analysis, and investment decision-making. Hospitality & Tourism events assess knowledge in customer service, event planning, and hotel management, while Business Management events require skills in strategic planning, leadership, and operations management.

Performance Indicators guide competitors in structuring their responses effectively during role-plays, case studies, and presentations. Judges evaluate how well participants demonstrate these key concepts, apply critical thinking, and develop creative and feasible business solutions. The better a competitor integrates Performance Indicators into their presentation—showing not just knowledge, but also application and innovation—the higher they score.

To succeed in DECA, students must study and master their event’s Performance Indicators, incorporating them naturally into their problem-solving process. Practicing with past DECA case studies, analyzing previous winners' strategies, and staying updated on business trends can all help competitors improve their ability to apply these indicators effectively. Ultimately, mastering Performance Indicators is what separates top competitors from the rest, as it demonstrates a deep understanding of business principles and the ability to think like a real-world professional. 

How Myls Tutoring can help?

However, preparing for DECA can be overwhelming, and that’s where My Learning Space Tutoring provides an invaluable advantage. With personalized 1-on-1 online coaching, students can receive expert feedback from experienced mentors, ensuring their role-plays, case studies, and presentations meet competition standards.

Myls Online Tutoring Platform has AI-powered personalized learning plan to identify your strengths and weaknesses, providing progress tracking to enhance your skills efficiently. Additionally, Myls Tutoring offers exclusive study resources, including case studies, business strategy insights, and tailored training materials, giving students a competitive edge.

With flexible scheduling, Myls Tutoring allows you to book tutoring sessions at your convenience, ensuring you can balance DECA preparation with other commitments. Whether you’re looking to perfect your presentation skills, develop stronger business strategies, or gain confidence before competition day, Myls Tutoring is your ultimate partner in achieving DECA success. Ready to take your DECA performance to the next level?

Book a Trial Lesson at Myls Tutoring today!