Competitions
You are allowed to choose one competition from each category to compete in.
Italicized competitions are pilot competitions. Placing in pilot competitions does not advance you to Nationals as these competitions are not offered at Nationals.
Click here to find the Early Submission guide.
Knowledge and Quran
Quran Memorization (Levels 1, 2, & 3)
Test your memorization and recitation of the Qur'an in Arabic according to Tajweed (rules of recitation). Level 1 is for beginners, while Levels 2 and 3 are for more advanced competitors.
Quran Recitation (No levels)
Test your recitation of the Qur'an in Arabic, according to Tajweed (rules of recitation).
Knowledge Test (2 intermediate, 2 advanced)
Read one of four books and take a test on it. The test is comprised of a set of multiple choice questions to judge reading
Click here for the 2026 Knowledge Test books
Arts
2D Art
Are you an aspiring painter? Do you doodle more than writing notes in class? Put your inspiration on canvas with the 2D art competition!
3D Art
Think you have what it takes to be the next great sculptor? Is clay your ultimate inspiration? Show us your skills in the 3D art competition.
Fashion Design
You don’t just love fashion, you design it! Get inspired by the MIST theme to become the next fashion phenomenon
Digital Art (previously known as Graphic Design) - EARLY SUBMISSION REQUIRED
If you’re the Photoshop or Illustrator whiz that everyone goes to for event flyers, the digital art competition is for you. Pixelate away!
Photography
Not only do you carry around your camera with you all the time, but you see everything as an opportunity for the perfect photo. Those other artists, yeah, they’re cool - but you prefer a lens and the dark room for your creative pursuits.
Culinary Arts
Have a knack for baking or decorating treats? Bring your creations to life in the Culinary Arts competition!
NOTE: This is a pilot competition reference this rulebook
Extemporaneous Drawing
Can you think fast and draw even faster? Show your creativity under pressure in the Extemporaneous Drawing competition!
NOTE: This is a pilot competition reference this rulebook
Writing & Oratory
Extemporaneous Essay
Competitors are allotted 60 minutes to compose a handwritten essay on a randomly selected topic related to the theme.
Extemporaneous Speaking
The art of extemporaneous speaking is for those who can always make conversation. Delivering a coherent, engaging, and moving speech is easy enough, right? Now try doing that on the spot with only 30 minutes of preparation!
Spoken Word
If you’re more of the performer type of a poet, then spoken word is for you! Here’s your chance to convey your passion and originality, all while inspiring those around you.
Original Oratory
Competitors present a memorized original oration within a seven (7) minute period. The oration must relate back to the theme but also be applicable to a general audience.
Poetry - EARLY SUBMISSION REQUIRED
Competitors must submit an original piece of poetry never before published within a 40-line limit. The piece must clearly relate back to the theme but also be applicable to a general audience.
Prepared Essay - EARLY SUBMISSION REQUIRED
Have you been inspired by this year’s MIST theme? The prepared essay competition is perfect if you’re looking for an outlet. This is your chance to be creative and persuade us on the significance of your chosen topic. Share the passion!
Short Fiction - EARLY SUBMISSION REQUIRED
Competitors are to submit an original work of fiction no longer than 10 pages that relates to the theme and can also be applied to a competitor-defined target audience. Illustrations are permitted for younger intended audiences.
Brackets
Debate (2v2, Parliamentary Style)
Are you great at winning arguments? Do you have the poise of a public speaker and the convincing tone of a scholar? Join debate to compete with others who are just like you.
Click here for the 2026 Debate topics
Improv
This competition is a fun way to display your creativity under spontaneous and timed circumstances. Each team must impress the judges in various hypothetical scenarios while under pressure to think on their feet and make the audience laugh!
MIST Bowl
Do you get an adrenaline rush at knowing the answer to any question asked? Are you a memorization whiz? Then MIST Quiz Bowl is the competition for you!
Click here for the 2026 MIST Bowl topics
Math Olympics
Think you have what it takes for the Olympics? Earn the title of true Math Olympian in this intense battle of numbers.
Group Projects
Business Venture - EARLY SUBMISSION REQUIRED
This competition encourages you to think about the business world, become a philanthropist, and market your own products. Familiarize yourself with modern trends and market values, while developing your own fantastic product or service!
Short Film - EARLY SUBMISSION REQUIRED
Showcase your editing, directing, and acting skills! Make a documentary, drama, comedy, thriller, or animation to convey a particular message to the audience while relating your film to the MIST theme.
Science Fair - EARLY SUBMISSION REQUIRED
Are you an aspiring scientist? Do you love research? Then this competition is for you! Design, conduct, and share the results of your own study to a panel of esteemed judges. Don’t forget to use the scientific method!
Social Media - EARLY SUBMISSION REQUIRED
Are you a whiz with media platforms such as Instagram or TikTok? Have you started either reading or seeing more blogs? Take your online social habits to the next level by creating a social media presence for your MIST team!
Humanitarian Service - EARLY SUBMISSION REQUIRED
Work with HHRD to conduct a crowdfunding campaign for a global cause from scratch. How would YOU reach ideal funders to help a cause you are passionate about?
Nasheed/RAP
Calling all aspiring singers! The Nasheed/Rap category is ideal for anyone who desires to write unique lyrics and use their singing skills to capture people’s attention about topics they are passionate about.
Sports
Basketball
If shooting hoops and hearing your sneakers squeak on the court is your thing, basketball is the perfect sport to get your blood pumping and adrenaline rushing.
Soccer
Show off your speed, control, and teamwork on the field. If you love competition and high-energy games, soccer is the sport for you!
NOTE: This is a pilot competition reference this rulebook
Volleyball
Fast rallies, quick reflexes, and strong teamwork define this game. Join volleyball if you're ready to spike, set, and compete with intensity.
NOTE: This is a pilot competition reference this rulebook
Badminton (Sisters)
Can you dominate the court in a battle of feathers and speed? Bring your A-game to the playing field in the badminton competition!
NOTE: This is a pilot competition reference this rulebook
Flag Football (Brothers)
Are you ready to outplay, outrun, and outscore the competition? Step onto the field with speed, strategy, and determination as you fight for victory in this high energy game!
NOTE: This is a pilot competition reference this rulebook
E-Sports
Super Smash Bros (1v1)
Chaotic, colorful, and fiercely competitive, Super Smash Bros gives players a chance to show off precision, timing, and character mastery.
NOTE: This is a pilot competition reference this rulebook
Chess
A timeless duel of intellect and patience, chess challenges players to anticipate, adapt, and outthink every move on the board.
NOTE: This is a pilot competition reference this rulebook
Fornite
Drop into fast-moving battles where building, strategy, and bold plays collide in a fight to be the last one standing.
NOTE: This is a pilot competition reference this rulebook
IMPORTANT NOTE: You may compete in 1 physical sports competition and 1 e-Sports competition simultaneously
