Debaters, Champions, Friends
The Yale Debate Association
The Yale Debate Association (YDA) is Yale University's only competitive intercollegiate debate team
The YDA is North America's most successful intercollegiate debating society and is currently ranked third globally.
We compete in the American Parliamentary style of debate as a member of the American Parliamentary Debate Association (APDA) and in the British Parliamentary style as a member of the US Universities Debating Association (USUDA).
Our alumni include former US Presidents, a Secretary of State, several members of Congress, and leaders in law, business, medicine, journalism, academia, and the arts. In addition to being a top-ranked intercollegiate debating team, the Yale Debate Association is also a tight-knit, supportive, and inclusive community. We invite you to explore the rest of our website to learn more about who we are beyond just debaters.
Our Titles
Take a peek at the Yale Debate Association’s long history of success
APDA National Champions
2022, 2018, 2014, 2009, 2007, 2003, 2001. Est. 1981.
APDA Team of the Year
2015, 2013, 2008, 2007, 2003, 2001, 1991. Est. 1987.
APDA College of the Year
2022, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009. Est. 2008
North American Champions
2024, 2022, 2019, 2017, 2011, 2009, 2007, 2006. Est. 1992.
USUDA National Champions
2015, 2013. Est. 2005.
World University Champions
1990. Est. 1981.
