Volunteer to Judge

Volunteer judges provide students with a high-quality educational experience—whether or not they win a prize. Your background, knowledge, and perspective are a valuable contribution of insight and confidence for students to take their next steps in life.

During the National History Day® (NHD) contest process, students in grades 6–12 conduct extensive research on topics related to an annual theme and present their findings as historical papers, exhibits, documentaries, performances, or websites. Judges work on a team of three, one of whom is designated as the captain. NHD relies on consensus judging, which means that instead of giving entries numerical scores, judges rank the entries after discussion within the judging team.

Details

National Contest Judging Dates

The 2026 National Contest will be held in person at the University of Maryland, College Park, from June 14-18, 2026.

Judge registration for the 2026 National Contest will open in Fall 2025.

Questions?

Email us

To judge for a regional NHD contest, connect with your local affiliate.

FInd your local affiliate

YPCC 2025 Teacher Delegates

Teachers and Students: Apply now for the 2026 Young People's Continental Congress! Applications are due November 14, 2025.

Click here for eligibility criteria and access to the teacher/student application and the parent/guardian permission form.

This will close in 0 seconds