FCCLA Challenge Tests, Presented by G-W Publisher

FCCLA Challenge Tests

FCCLA Challenge Tests, presented by G-W Publisher, provide opportunities for FCCLA Members to demonstrate college- and career-readiness skills in Family and Consumer Sciences and related occupations. Members will demonstrate skills learned in FCS courses and through their involvement in FCCLA by taking one of many challenge tests covering state and national FCS standards.

To obtain event guidelines and policies, download the FCCLA Challenge Tests, Presented by G-W Publisher. Event Guidelines available in the “Resources” tab of the FCCLA portal.

Challenge Test Opportunities for the 2025-2026 School Year

Opportunity 1: (Online) Fall 2025

  • October 10, 2025 - Registration deadline
  • October 17, 2025 - Challenge Tests invoices must be paid
  • October 20, 2025 - November 21, 2025 - Testing window opens for Challenge Tests. Testing site open from 8:00 am – 8:00 pm (ET).

Opportunity 2: (In-Person) National Leadership Conference

Students who previously competed in an FCCLA Challenge Test are permitted to compete in the same Challenge Test again, regardless of their previous placement or level. Participants who competed in the Fall Online Challenge Test are also allowed to compete in the same Challenge Test at the National Leadership Conference in the summer of the same school year.

  • Apparel: Fashion Design & Construction Challenge

    This academic challenge test is rooted in the comprehensive study of fashion design and apparel construction. Participants will explore cutting-edge topics such as the modern development of textiles, the dynamics of the global apparel industry, and the critical role of sustainability in fashion. The test covers essential areas including fashion design concepts, textile selection processes, and hands-on clothing construction techniques, all while integrating STEAM principles to enhance the educational experience. This challenge not only tests knowledge and skills but also prepares participants for further education and careers in the fast-evolving fashion and apparel industry. 

    Specifics:

    • Individual Event
    • Open to Levels 1, 2, 3, 4
    • G-W Curriculum: Apparel: Fashion Design & Construction, 12th Edition
  • Child Development: Early Stages Through Adolescence Challenge

    This academic challenge test focuses on the comprehensive study of child development from prenatal stages through adolescence. This test allows participants to delve deep into the various aspects of physical, intellectual, social, and emotional growth in children. Participants will assess developmental milestones, explore child-related career paths, and apply theoretical frameworks from major child development theorists like Erikson, Piaget, and Vygotsky to real-world scenarios. The challenge incorporates advanced topics such as brain studies, 21st-century learning skills, and mental health considerations, emphasizing a holistic understanding of child development. This challenge is designed not only to test knowledge but also to prepare participants for effective involvement in child development fields, whether in practical, educational, or care-related capacities

    Specifics:

    • Individual Event
    • Open to Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4
    • G-W Curriculum: Child Development: Early Stages Through Adolescence, 10th Edition
  • Counseling and Mental Health Services Challenge

    This academic challenge test is rooted in the study of counseling principles and mental health services. Participants will examine key topics such as human development, mental health disorders, therapeutic communication, and the influence of social and cultural factors on well-being. The test highlights essential areas, including counseling foundations, intervention strategies, crisis management, and community resources, while connecting learning to real-world applications in human services. This challenge not only measures knowledge and skills but also prepares participants for future education and careers in counseling, psychology, social work, and related fields. 

    SPECIFICS:

    • Individual Event
    • Opens to Level 1, 2, 3, 4
    • G-W Curriculum: Counseling and Mental Health Services
  • Culinary Math Challenge

    This academic challenge test focuses on the application of mathematics in culinary arts. Participants will engage in solving practical culinary problems that require the use of math skills. This test covers essential culinary math topics including measurements, fractions, decimals, conversions, yield percentages, and cost calculations, essential for any aspiring chef. The challenge tests participants' ability to integrate mathematical skills with culinary tasks, reinforcing their capability to manage culinary operations effectively and efficiently. This challenge is designed not only to test knowledge but also to equip participants with practical math skills that are indispensable in the kitchen and broader culinary industry settings. 

    Specifics

    • Individual Event
    • Open to Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4
    • G-W Curriculum: The Culinary Professional, 4th Edition
  • FCCLA Knowledge Challenge

    This academic challenge test evaluates participants' in-depth knowledge of FCCLA, spanning its history, programs, leadership roles, and chapter management. It is an opportunity for members to demonstrate their comprehensive understanding and application of FCCLA's core missions and operational structures. This test not only assesses participants' knowledge but also their ability to use this information in leadership scenarios within the organization. By highlighting real-world applications, the challenge prepares members for active roles in their chapters and potential future positions in broader organizational contexts. Participants will leave this challenge ready to advance FCCLA's mission and take on more significant roles within the organization

    SPECIFICS

    • Individual Event
    • Open to Levels 1, 2, 3 and 4
    • G-W Curriculum: Not Applicable; FCCLA-specific test
  • Hospitality Services Challenge

    This academic challenge test is centered on the comprehensive study of the hospitality industry. Participants will delve into the five primary segments of the hospitality sector: food and beverage, lodging, travel, tourism, and recreation. The test encompasses critical business aspects such as hospitality management, human resources, accounting, sales, and marketing. Additionally, it highlights the roles, responsibilities, and skills necessary for a successful career in hospitality. Customer service excellence, industry-specific technology, hospitality ethics, and sustainable practices are integrated throughout the test. Through this challenge, participants are not only evaluated on their knowledge and skills but also prepared for further education and careers in the dynamic hospitality industry. 

    SPECIFICS

    • Individual Event
    • Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4
    • G-W Curriculum: Hospitality Services, 5th Edition
  • Housing and Interior Design Challenge

    This academic challenge test is based on the comprehensive study of housing and interior design. Participants will explore both interior and exterior design, delving into the phases of the design process and understanding the various factors that influence housing. The test covers critical areas such as historical, cultural, governmental, and technological influences on housing, architectural styles, floor plans, space planning, materials and finishes, construction basics, and interior systems. Emphasis is placed on green and sustainable design, as well as universal design principles. Through this challenge, participants are not only evaluated on their knowledge and skills but also prepared for further education and careers in the housing and interior design professions.

    Specifics

    • Individual Event
    • Open to Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4
    • G-W Curriculum: Housing and Interior Design, 12th Edition
  • Interpersonal Relationships Challenge

    This academic challenge test is centered on the study of interpersonal relationships and their role in personal, family, and workplace success. Participants will examine topics such as communication, conflict resolution, cultural influences, and decision-making. The test highlights essential areas, including healthy relationship skills, personal growth, and social responsibility, while connecting learning to real-world applications. This challenge not only measures knowledge and skills but also prepares participants for lifelong success and careers in family, community, and human services. 

    SPECIFICS:  

    • Individual Event
    • Opens to Level 1, 2, 3, 4
    • G-W Curriculum: Interpersonal Relationships, 2nd Edition
  • Math For Financial Literacy Challenge

    This academic challenge test focuses on the essential financial skills and mathematical concepts necessary for managing personal finances effectively. Participants will explore topics such as managing a bank account, using credit cards responsibly, and creating and maintaining budgets. The test will cover key areas including basic arithmetic, financial decision-making, and understanding contemporary digital banking practices and tax regulations. This challenge evaluates participants' ability to apply mathematical skills to real-life financial situations, preparing them for financial independence and success in their personal and professional lives. 

    Specifics

    • Individual Event
    • Open to Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4
    • G-W Curriculum: Math for Financial Literacy, 2nd Edition
  • Nutrition & Wellness for Life Challenge

    This academic challenge test is based on the comprehensive study of nutrition and healthy living. Participants will explore the latest advice on nutrition and physical activity, acquiring the knowledge and skills needed to plan healthy meals, shop for ingredients, and prepare safe, wholesome food. The test emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for success in college and career. Participants will also gain insights into reading the Nutrition Facts label and making healthy food choices to maintain wellness. Emphasis is placed on the connections between food choices, eating habits, activity, and health, as well as the safe selection, storage, and preparation of food.

    SPECIFICS

    • Individual Event
    • Level 1, 2, 3 and 4
    • G-W Curriculum: Nutrition & Wellness for Life, 6th Edition
  • Principles of Food Science Challenge

    This academic challenge test is based on the comprehensive study of food science principles. Participants will explore how the laws of science are applied in producing, processing, preparing, preserving, and metabolizing food. The test covers essential concepts from chemistry, microbiology, and physics as they relate to food components and complex food systems. Emphasis is placed on understanding scientific principles that can be applied to both a future food science career and creative, nutritious home cooking. Additionally, participants will gain insights into the requirements and opportunities for a food science career and its impact on local, national, and global economies

    Specifics

    • Individual Event
    • Open to Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4
    • G-W Curriculum: Principles of Food Science, 6th Edition
  • Principles of Human Services Challenge

    This academic challenge test focuses on the study of human services and their role in supporting individuals, families, and communities. Participants will examine topics such as personal development, leadership, communication, and problem-solving, while exploring career pathways in service-related fields. The test connects knowledge to real-world applications, preparing participants with the skills needed for lifelong success and careers in human services. 

    SPECIFICS:  

    • Individual Event
    • Opens to Level 1, 2, 3, 4
    • G-W Curriculum: Principles of Human Services, 3rd Edition 
  • School to Career Challenge

    This academic challenge test is rooted in the study of career exploration and workforce readiness. Participants will explore topics such as goal setting, employability skills, career planning, and the transition from school to the workplace. The test emphasizes essential areas including communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and professional ethics, while connecting knowledge to real-world applications and career pathways. This challenge not only measures knowledge and skills but also prepares participants for success in postsecondary education, careers, and lifelong achievement in today’s evolving workforce. 

    SPECIFICS:  

    • Individual Event
    • Opens to Level 1, 2, 3, 4
    • G-W Curriculum: School to Career, 12th Edition
  • Teaching Challenge

    This academic challenge test is based on the comprehensive study of teaching principles and practices. Participants will explore the role and duties of a teacher, including planning, instructional methods, assessment, and classroom management. The test covers topics such as types of learners, human development (physical, intellectual, and socio-emotional), and instructional methods to address these factors. It provides an overview of growth and development during preschool years, middle childhood, and adolescence, highlighting the importance of understanding human development in relation to the learner. Through this challenge, participants will gain insights into the world of education and investigate teaching as a potential career path. 

    Specifics

    • Individual Event
    • Open to Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4
    • G-W Curriculum: Teaching, 4th Edition
  • Working with Young Children Challenge

    This academic challenge test is based on the study of early childhood development and education. Participants will explore topics such as child growth and development, guidance strategies, learning environments, and health and safety practices. The test emphasizes essential areas, including curriculum planning, observation and assessment, and the role of families and communities in supporting young children. By connecting knowledge to real-world applications, this challenge not only measures skills and understanding but also prepares participants for further education and careers in early childhood education and related human services fields. 

    SPECIFICS:  

    • Individual Event
    • Opens to Level 1, 2, 3, 4
    • G-W Curriculum: Working with Young Children, 10th Edition

Members develop skills for life through: character development, creative and critical thinking, interpersonal communication, practical knowledge, and career preparation.