DECA timeline · 2026-27

From deca.org and state association sites. Chapter deadlines are usually earlier.

New this year

• Rubrics use four levels: Novice, Developing, Proficient and Exemplary.
• Career Competencies replace 21st Century Skills.
• Role-plays and case studies have a new Solution category.
• Prepared events are 100 points written plus 100 points presentation.
• Team Decision Making now uses five performance indicators, down from seven.
• Presentations are judged on organisation, persuasion, delivery, design and overall impression.
• 70% or higher on the Marketing Cluster Exam earns American Marketing Association certification eligibility.
• The International Business Plan outline was adjusted.