Toastmasters Speech Contests
Toastmasters holds 5 types of speech contests, each progressing through 6 levels from club to world championship. Competing is a powerful way to accelerate your public speaking growth.
International Speech Contest
The flagship Toastmasters speaking competition
Humorous Speech Contest
Competition for humorous speeches
Evaluation Contest
Competition for speech evaluation skills
Tall Tales Contest
Competition for exaggerated storytelling
Table Topics Contest
Competition for impromptu speaking
Contest Levels
Contest Season
Spring (Feb–May): International Speech Contest, Table Topics Contest, Evaluation Contest
Fall (Aug–Nov): Humorous Speech Contest, Table Topics Contest
Note: Tall Tales is typically held at the club/area level only.
World Championship of Public Speaking is held at the Toastmasters International Convention in August.
General Rules
• You must be a paid member in good standing to compete
• Speeches must be original and not previously used in a Toastmasters contest at the same level
• Time limits are strictly enforced — disqualification for going over
• Winners advance to the next level until the World Championship