The Scripps National Spelling Bee

The Scripps National Spelling Bee illuminates pathways to lifelong curiosity, celebrates academic achievement and enriches communities by inspiring the exploration of words.

A tradition 100 years in the making

Every year, students from all walks of life have the opportunity to participate in the Scripps National Spelling Bee program. They progress from classroom to cafeteria, from auditorium to civic center, just as millions of other students have done before them.

Promoting literacy since 1925

The National Spelling Bee began in 1925 when nine newspapers joined together to host a spelling bee. Little did they know that a century later their literacy effort would reach millions of students each year.

Where do they get the words?

For over 50 years, the Bee and Merriam-Webster have worked together to bring interesting, meaningful words to the best spellers across the country.

 Merriam-Webster Unabridged is the official dictionary of the Scripps National Spelling Bee.

The Scripps National Spelling Bee works with educators and students across the country.

Beelieve in the power of words

In celebration of our centennial in 2025, the Bee launched Beelieve, a fund in partnership with the Scripps Howard Fund to make spelling bees more accessible for schools and communities across the country. Donate if you beelieve in the power of words to transform students’ lives!

Learn more about the Scripps National Spelling Bee and meet the Spellers competing this week at spellingbee.com.

The Scripps National Spelling Bee is administered on a not-for-profit basis by The E.W. Scripps Company from its headquarters in Cincinnati, Ohio.