Academics
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The University Interscholastic League offers the most comprehensive program of academic competition in the nation. UIL Academics offers more activities than any other UIL division, with 30 contests at the high school level and 20 A+ Academic contests for grades 2-8. More than half a million students participate in UIL academic contests each year.
These activities, which exist to complement the academic curriculum, are designed to motivate students as they acquire higher levels of knowledge, to challenge students to confront issues of importance, and to provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate mastery of specific skills. Students are challenged to think critically and creatively, exhibiting much more than knowledge and comprehension.
Academics News & Updates
January 13, 2026
UIL Essay Contest Deadline is February 11
Submit your essay for the Barbara Jordan Historical Essay Competition by February 11. All contestants will learn about an incredible person, movement, or organization in Texas, and finalists will also be eligible to apply for scholarships through TILF and earn their campus sweepstakes points.
April 01, 2025
2025 Wild Card List
2025 Wild Card List
Wild Card teams will be tentative and posted for a 24-hour verification period. If you have disputes or questions, send them to academics@uiltexas.org. Wild card teams will be considered final on April 2, 2025 at 4 pm.
March 05, 2025
UIL Essay Contest Judging and Results
Thank you to students who have entered the UIL essay contest. Judges look forward to evaluating your essays. A list of finalists will be released on the UIL essay contest website towards the end of April. Best of luck to all who entered!
February 25, 2025
UIL Essay Contest Deadline is March 1
Enter your essay here!
November 06, 2024
Register as high school
Academic coordinator
(Coordinators for elementary and middle schools register under A+ Academics.)
Academic Calendar
TEKS and College Readiness
