Academics

Youth Programs

Empowering Deaf and Hard of Hearing Youth

About Youth Programs

Our programs and competitions are open to students in grades 2 through 12 and will support your child in developing their identity, knowledge, skills, leadership, and self-confidence.
Student Signing
Academic Bowl

Academic Bowl

Battle of the Books

NLC Competitor Signing

National Literary Competition

Youth Camp

Summer Youth Camps

Youth Debate Bowl

Youth Debate Bowl

Step Up to the Challenge

Our competitions promote a spirit of academic competition and good sportsmanship while encouraging critical thinking skills amongst deaf and hard of hearing students.
Every year, Gallaudet University hosts up to 80 teams of deaf and hard of hearing youth from all over the nation. Pursue excellence, sportsmanship, and lifelong friendships at the Academic Bowl.
Get ready because this isn’t your typical Summer Reading List. Promoting literacy among deaf and hard of hearing middle school students, Battle of the Books brings a unique competitive edge to reading. Hit the books and compete with schools from all over the nation in this exciting book trivia competition.
The National Literacy Competition challenges and inspires deaf and hard of hearing students in grades 2-12 to showcase original written or ASL material at a national level.
The Debate Bowl is an annual competition open to individual high school and middle school deaf and hard of hearing students currently enrolled in any K-12 school in the world.

Summer Camp Your Way

Our Summer Camps let middle and high school students experience stimulating learning and activities in an ASL/English environment minutes from the U.S. Capitol.

Immerse Into ASL is a fantastic opportunity for deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing students entering Grades 10-12 to enhance their American Sign Language (ASL) skills and learn more about Deaf culture and history. What other better way to immerse yourself into the deaf community than at Gallaudet?

We warmly welcome both beginner and intermediate signers!

Discover College and Careers is for deaf and hard of hearing students entering grades 10-12, aiming to discover more about themselves, their skills, and potential career paths. Participants will experience life as Gallaudet students while exploring the diverse opportunities offered by Gallaudet University.

Join us for an unique opportunity to connect with peers, build a transition portfolio, and relish the sights and culture of Washington, D.C.

GenCyber is designed for students entering grades 9-12. Campers will explore the world of information technology and cybersecurity! Did we mention it’s free?
Gallaudet University athletics offers youth summer camps that give campers direct ASL instruction, including volleyball and basketball clinics. Strengthen, prepare, and boost your student-athlete with a fun, memorable experience.