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Eligibility & Team Structure

  • Each team must consist of 4-6 members, ages 6th-8th grade, officially representing a registered church, youth group, or Christian school.
  • Teams must have a designated Team Coordinator (Pastor, Youth Leader, or Church Representative).
  • A team may choose to use one preferred Bible translation (options: KJV, NIV, ESV).

Competition Format & Structure

Preliminary Rounds:
  • Teams answer multiple-choice & short-answer questions in written format.
  • The top 16 teams advance based on accuracy & time efficiency.
Semifinal Round:
  • Buzzer-style competition with rapid-fire Scripture references.
  • Teams must recite & explain select Bible verses and themes.
  • The top 4 teams advance to finals based on total score.
Final Round:
  • Includes Bible-based case studies and real-world application questions.
  • Teams must demonstrate critical thinking, knowledge depth, and teamwork.
  • The winning team is determined by total points from all rounds combined.

Scoring System & Points Allocation

  • Multiple-Choice Questions: 5 points per correct answer
  • Short-Answer Responses: 10 points per correct answer
  • Buzzer-Based Responses: 15 points per correct answer
  • Scripture Recitation & Explanation: 20 points per correct answer
  • Case Study Analysis: Up to 30 points per response (judged on depth & clarity)

Official Competition Rules & Guidelines

The International Christian Youth Bible Bowl is more than a test of knowledge—it is a celebration of God’s Word, a platform for Christian fellowship, and an opportunity for young believers to grow in faith through healthy competition. These Official Competition Rules & Guidelines are designed to ensure fairness, encourage sportsmanship, and create an atmosphere where every participant can thrive. Whether you are a first-time competitor or a returning champion, understanding and following these guidelines will help us keep the focus on what matters most: glorifying God through the study, application, and sharing of His Word. Every question, every round, and every interaction is a chance to reflect Christ’s character and honor His truth.

Judging Panel & Rules Enforcement

  • The judging panel consists of pastors, biblical scholars, and Christian educators.
  • Judges will assess accuracy, biblical references, logical reasoning, and scriptural depth.
  • If a team disputes a ruling, they may request an official review within 2 minutes of the round ending.
  • Teams showing poor sportsmanship, arguing, or disrespect may receive a point deduction or disqualification.

Conduct & Christian Sportsmanship

  • All participants must demonstrate respect, humility, and fellowship in competition.
  • Disruptive behavior (verbal disputes, hostility, or intentional rule violations) will result in disciplinary action.
  • The competition is designed to glorify God—not just win! Team spirit, encouragement, and unity are highly encouraged.

Judging Criteria & Evaluation Breakdown

1  Accuracy & Biblical Knowledge (40%)
  • Correctness of answers
  • Ability to recall exact scripture references
  • Application of biblical themes
2  Depth & Explanation (30%)
  • Teams must not only answer but explain the significance of their responses
  • Understanding of scripture beyond memorization
3  Speed & Response Timing (20%)
  • Teams receive bonus points for faster responses in buzzer rounds
  • Quick thinking while maintaining biblical accuracy
4  Teamwork & Communication (10%)
  • Teams are judged on collaboration and respectful discourse
  • Encouragement, unity, and display of Christian leadership.
  • Teams answer multiple-choice & short-answer questions in written format.
  • The top 16 teams advance based on accuracy & time efficiency.
Preliminary Rounds:
  • Buzzer-style competition with rapid-fire Scripture references.
  • Teams must recite & explain select Bible verses and themes.
  • The top 4 teams advance to finals based on total score.
Semifinal Round:
  • Includes Bible-based case studies and real-world application questions.
  • Teams must demonstrate critical thinking, knowledge depth, and teamwork.
  • The winning team is determined by total points from all rounds combined.
Final Round
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