For more than 35 years, the Harvard Debate Council has offered one of the most prestigious summer debate programs in the world, welcoming high school students from across the globe to develop the intellectual and rhetorical skills that define tomorrow’s leaders. Taught by accomplished coaches and members of the Harvard Debate Council, the Summer Workshop provides rigorous, expert instruction across the full range of competitive formats — including Policy Debate, Public Forum, Lincoln-Douglas, Congressional Debate, and World Schools Debate — serving students at every level of experience, from first-time competitors to those preparing to contend for national and international championships.

Through an intensive, carefully structured curriculum, students engage in argumentation theory, research methodology, evidence analysis, and speech preparation, all within an environment that prizes intellectual excellence and collaborative growth. Beyond competition, the program cultivates confidence, critical thinking, creativity, and leadership — skills that extend far beyond the tournament floor. The Summer Workshop takes place each July and welcomes students from around the world.

Learn more and apply at hdcsw.org.