National Junior Classical League: A Complete Guide

Are you fascinated by Latin, ancient history, or the world of classical studies? The National Junior Classical League (NJCL) is the perfect place to dive in. Founded to bring together students passionate about the classics, NJCL offers a wealth of opportunities—from academic competitions and creative events to leadership roles and national conventions.

Whether you’re a newcomer curious about what NJCL offers or a veteran looking to make the most of your membership, this complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know to thrive in this community.

• What Is National Junior Classical League?
• National Junior Classical League Awards and Prizes
• How to Qualify for National Junior Classical League
• How to Get into National Junior Classical League
• How to Win in National Junior Classical League Contests
• National Junior Classical League Previous Winners
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Takeaways

What Is National Junior Classical League?

The National Junior Classical League is the premier organization in the United States dedicated to students in grades 6 to 9 who are passionate about the classical world. Founded in 1936, the NJCL promotes the study of Latin, Greek, and ancient civilizations through a vibrant community of over 50,000 members across the U.S., Canada, and Australia.

The 2026 National Junior Classical League Convention will take place from July 21 to July 26, 2026, with an early arrival day on July 20. The event will be hosted at Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. This year’s convention theme is “Concordia parvae res crescunt” (Latin for “In harmony, small things grow”), a quote from Sallust’s Bellum Iugurthinum 10.6, reflecting the NJCL’s focus on collaboration, learning, and community among young classical scholars.

The convention offers academic competitions, artistic showcases, athletic events, and social activities. Students can participate in Certamen (a quiz bowl-style competition), graphic and creative arts contests, Olympika (athletic games), and colloquia (seminars). Additionally, the event provides opportunities for leadership development (including elections for NJCL officers) and promotes a sense of community through dances, mixers, and other social gatherings.

Whether you’re a seasoned member or new to the National Junior Classical League, the national convention offers a unique and enriching experience that celebrates the classics and builds lasting friendships among young scholars.

National Junior Classical League Awards and Prizes

The National Junior Classical League recognizes and celebrates the achievements of its members through a variety of awards and prizes. These accolades are designed to honor excellence in classical studies, leadership, and service within the organization.

Scholarships

The NJCL offers several scholarships to support members pursuing higher education and careers in classical studies:

• NJCL scholarships. Ten awards ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 are available, based on service to the organization, financial need, academic record, and recommendations.
• NJCL Latin & Greek Honor Society scholarship. One $2,000 award is given to a member planning a classics major and teaching career.
• National Latin Exam scholarships. Twenty $1,000 scholarships are available to students earning a Gold medal on the National Latin Exam and taking at least one year of Latin or classical Greek in college.

Online exam awards

NJCL members who excel in online exams can earn awards:

• Eligibility. Earn a gold medal in at least two of the four digital contests within one academic season.
• Awards. Six $500 awards and nine $250 awards are available, divided among grade categories.

Convention contests

At the annual NJCL Convention, students can compete in various contests:

• Certamen. A quiz bowl-style competition testing knowledge of classical civilizations.
• Creative Arts contests. Including Dramatic Interpretation, Latin and English Oratory, Sight Latin Reading, Costume Contest, Slogan, Modern Myth, and Essay.
• Olympika & Ludi. Athletic competitions promoting teamwork and spirit. 

Non-Convention contests

NJCL members can also participate in non-convention contests:

• Creative Writing contest. The 2026 theme is “quod si tam Graecis novitas invisa fuisset quam nobis, quid nunc esset vetus?” (“But if the Greeks had been so hostile to innovation as we are, what would now be old?”) from Horace’s Epistles, II.1. 
• Other contests. Including Community Service, Programs & Activities, Local and State Publications, Publicity, and Social Media.

How to Qualify for National Junior Classical League

In this section, we’ll talk about the different requirements, fees, and important dates to take note of to qualify for the National Junior Classical League.

Eligibility

To participate in NJCL activities, students must meet the following criteria based on NJCL’s constitution and by-laws:

• Enrollment in Classical Studies. Students should be currently taking or have previously taken a classical language (e.g., Latin or Greek) or a course in classical/ancient studies.
• Membership. If your school has an NJCL chapter, you must join it by paying annual dues to both the state and national organizations. If your school does not have a chapter, you can join as a member-at-large by completing the NJCL Member-at-Large Form and affiliating with the Junior Classical League of your state.
• State affiliation. All NJCL chapters or members-at-large must affiliate with their respective state or provincial organization to be in good standing.

Required documents

To complete your membership registration, ensure you have the following:

• Completed NJCL member-at-large form. For students joining without a local chapter.
• Proof of enrollment. Documentation indicating current or past enrollment in a classical language or classical studies course.
• Payment of dues. Payment for both state and national membership dues, as applicable.
• State affiliation confirmation. Verification of affiliation with your state or provincial Junior Classical League.

Contest fees

Participation in NJCL contests may involve the following fees:

• NJCL membership dues. Annual dues vary by state and are required for participation in NJCL activities.
• Online exam registration fees. Fees for online exams such as the National Classical Etymology Exam (NCEE) and National Latin Vocabulary Exam (NLVE) are typically $4 per student.
• National Roman Civilization exam registration fees. Registration costs $4 per student, with a $4 late fee if registering after the initial period.
• Convention fees. Fees for attending the NJCL National Convention cover registration, housing, and meals. Specific costs are detailed in the annual convention registration materials.

Registration deadlines

Stay on top of the following important dates:

• Convention registration FAX release. The official registration packet, known as the 2026 NJCL Convention FAX, will be available in March 2026. This document will contain all necessary information regarding registration procedures, deadlines, and other essential details.
• Early arrival date. Participants can arrive early on July 20, 2026.
• Convention dates. The main convention activities are scheduled from July 21 to July 26, 2026.

How to Get into National Junior Classical League

Getting into the National Junior Classical League is easier than you might think. Whether your school has a chapter or you’re joining as a member-at-large, this section will guide you through the steps, from meeting eligibility requirements to completing registration and securing your spot in contests and conventions.

1. Check your eligibility requirements.

To become a member of the National Junior Classical League, you must be enrolled in an educational program before the university level or its equivalent. Membership is contingent upon affiliation with a local chapter or as a member-at-large.

If your school has a chapter, you must join that chapter by paying annual dues to both the state and national organizations. If no local chapter exists, you can become a member-at-large by completing the NJCL Member-at-Large Form, affiliating with the Junior Classical League of your state, and paying the requisite dues to both the state and national organizations.

To participate in NJCL activities, including contests and conventions, all members must be in good standing with their respective state or provincial organizations.

2. Prepare the required documents.

To register, you need to complete the NJCL Member-at-Large Form if joining without a local chapter. This form requires personal information and confirmation of enrollment in a classical language or humanities course.

Additionally, you must submit proof of enrollment, such as a transcript or course schedule, and pay the annual dues. These dues are typically $5 for students and $97 for sponsors at the minimum membership level.

3. Pay the contest fees and membership dues.

Participation in National Junior Classical League activities, including contests and conventions, requires payment of membership dues. The standard dues are $5 for student members. For those joining through a local chapter, additional chapter dues may apply, which vary depending on the chapter’s policies.

It’s important to check with the local chapter or state organization for specific fee structures. For chapters registering before December 1st, there are no chapter fees. Registrations between December 1st and April 1st incur a $20 fee, and those between April 1st and July 1st incur a $30 fee. These fees help support the administration of NJCL programs and events.

4. Be mindful of registration deadlines.

Registration for National Junior Classical League membership is an ongoing process. However, to participate in specific contests or conventions, early registration is recommended. For instance, the 2026 NJCL Convention registration details will be provided in the 2026 NJCL Convention FAX, expected to be released in March 2026.

This document will contain all necessary information regarding registration procedures, deadlines, and other essential details. It’s crucial to adhere to the deadlines outlined in the convention FAX to ensure participation in the event.

How to Win in National Junior Classical League Contests

In this section, we’ll explore key tips and strategies to excel in competitions, creative contests, athletic events, and leadership opportunities, helping you maximize your chances of success at the National Junior Classical League.

1. Master Certamen competitions.

To succeed in Certamen, the NJCL’s quiz-bowl style competition, it’s essential to have a deep understanding of Latin grammar, Roman history, mythology, and culture. Regular practice with past questions, flashcards, and mock competitions can significantly improve recall speed and accuracy. Engaging in team study sessions and reviewing materials from various states can also provide diverse perspectives and insights.

2. Excel in Creative Arts contests.

The Creative Arts Contests at NJCL include Dramatic Interpretation, Latin and English Oratory, Sight Latin Reading, Costume Contest, Slogan, Modern Myth, and Essay. Success in these events requires a combination of originality, preparation, and performance skills.

For instance, when preparing for the Costume Contest, ensure that your costume is both creative and adheres to the theme. Similarly, for the Modern Myth contest, crafting a compelling and imaginative story that aligns with classical themes can set you apart.

3. Participate actively in Olympika & Ludi.

Olympika & Ludi are the athletic and recreational events at the NJCL Convention, including sports like soccer, volleyball, and ultimate frisbee. Active participation contributes to your chapter’s overall score and also promotes teamwork and school spirit. Engaging fully in these activities demonstrates commitment and enthusiasm, which are often recognized and rewarded.

4. Engage in Non-Convention Contests.

NJCL offers various Non-Convention Contests such as Creative Writing, Community Service, and Publicity. These contests provide opportunities to showcase your talents and contributions outside the traditional academic setting.

For example, submitting a well-crafted essay or participating in a community service project can earn recognition and awards.

5. Demonstrate leadership and school spirit.

While not a contest, it’s still important to know that active involvement in leadership roles and exhibiting strong school spirit can significantly impact your success in National Junior Classical League. Taking on responsibilities such as organizing events, leading teams, or mentoring peers showcases dedication and initiative.

Additionally, participating in spirit activities and supporting your chapter’s efforts can enhance camaraderie and contribute to a positive team environment.

National Junior Classical League Previous Winners

To celebrate the achievements of young classics enthusiasts, this section looks back at some of the standout performances from the National Junior Classical League’s recent competitions. All results and highlights come from Torch: U.S., the NJCL’s official magazine.

Here are the winners of major awards and scholarships:

Below are selected scholarship winners:

These are the Certamen competition winners:

Here are the winners for the Latin league (team contest):

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the National Junior Classical League?

The National Junior Classical League is a youth organization founded in 1936 that brings together middle‑ and high‑school students who study classical languages and cultures. It is one of the largest academic youth organizations in the world, with thousands of members in chapters across the United States and other countries.

The NJCL’s mission is to promote the study of Latin, Greek and ancient civilisations and to promote an appreciation of the ancient world’s languages, literature, history, arts and sciences.

2. Who is eligible to join NJCL?

Membership is open to middle‑ and high‑school students who are taking or have taken a classical language or a course in classical humanities. Students typically join through a chapter at their school; chapters must be in good standing with both the NJCL and the state JCL.

If a school does not have a chapter, an individual may join as a member‑at‑large by completing the NJCL’s member‑at‑large registration, but if a chapter exists, students must join that chapter.

3. How do I apply to the National Junior Classical League?

To apply, first check whether your school has an NJCL chapter. If it does, join that chapter by paying the student dues and any local chapter fee. Chapters are formed by an American Classical League (ACL) member (usually a Latin teacher) who registers the chapter with NJCL by completing the NJCL Chapter Form.

If there is no chapter at your school, you or a teacher can start one by gathering at least one student who has taken or is taking a classical language/humanities course and then registering through the ACL as described above. Students at schools without a chapter may join as members‑at‑large by completing the member‑at‑large registration form; they must still pay dues and affiliate with their state JCL.

4. What are the benefits of joining NJCL?

Some benefits of joining NJCL include having leadership opportunities, getting to join state and national conventions, receiving a quarterly newsletter and other publications, possibly winning scholarships, and gaining membership in the National Latin Honor Society and National Greek Honor Society.

5. Is National Junior Classical League worth it?

If you enjoy classical languages, literature, or ancient history, NJCL membership offers significant value. Members gain access to academic contests, creative and athletic events, leadership roles, networking opportunities, and scholarships.

Participation can strengthen college applications by demonstrating sustained interest and achievement in the humanities and by highlighting leadership and community service.

Takeaways

• Joining the National Junior Classical League opens doors to leadership and intellectual growth rooted in classical studies.
• National Junior Classical League chapters let middle- and high‑school students organise events, volunteer in their communities, and collaborate on projects that celebrate Latin, Greek, and ancient cultures.
• Through academic tests, creative‑ and graphic‑arts competitions and athletic challenges, members develop teamwork, public speaking and critical‑thinking skills that translate well to college and beyond.
• If you’d like help showcasing your accomplishments, our private consulting program can guide you in highlighting your NJCL leadership roles, contest successes, and community service in the most compelling way.