The following rules are applicable to all contests:

  1. The Foundation reserves the right to verify the date of birth of the contestant/grade, and revoke the rank(s) and prize(s) in case of any discrepancy with the contest rules.
  2. The Foundation conducts educational activities on "best efforts basis" only. The Foundation, its officers, and volunteers are not responsible for any human error and consequent hardship caused to any person(s) or organization(s).
  3. The primary goal of these contests is to foster the spirit of competition and learning among the youth. Parents and children should focus on the joy of learning and interaction with other participants rather than on the possible outcome of the contest.
  4. Parental interruption in any form during the contest is unacceptable and the foundation reserves the right to ask the parent(s) to leave the contest room/venue or face disqualification of the participant. A participant has right to dispute judge's decision and request a hearing before the start of the next round. Parents are not allowed to approach judges directly. Parents can submit a written complaint/dispute to an onsite designated-volunteer who will, based upon the merits of the claim, refer the matter to the judges at the end of that round. In any dispute, decision of the judges is final.
  5. The spelling bee contest shall be judged using Webster's Third New International Unabridged Dictionary, copyright 1986 or later version, Merriam-Webster Inc. Words shall be pronounced according to the diacritical markings of the dictionary.
  6. Judges have the right to change rules on site without notice if the situation warrants. All decisions by the judges are final.
  7. No video is permitted during the contests.
  8. The registration fees and meal charges are non-refundable. If you withdraw from a contest after registering, your payment may be considered tax-deductible