LifeSmarts, the nation’s premier consumer program, has never been more relevant. Entering its 29th year, Lifesmarts provides real-world education for students who learn about core consumer topics and develop critical thinking skills. Participants focus on five key topic areas: consumer rights and responsibilities, the environment, health and safety, personal finance, and technology. The goal of LifeSmarts is to create consumer savvy young people who will be well equipped for adult life in today’s complex, global marketplace.

Competition includes online and live competitions. Students who participate in the program begin competition online. The highest scoring teams are invited to in-person live state championships. State-wide competitions are locally coordinated by state partnering organizations and agencies. In states without a state coordinator, NCL hosts a virtual state championship. State winners and qualifying Wild Card teams are invited to the National LifeSmarts Championship held in a different city every April.