About Braille Challenge
Braille Challenge is the only academic competition of its kind, held annually from January through March, for students who are blind or visually impaired. Developed by Braille Institute 25 years ago, the program inspires students to practice and strengthen their braille literacy skills, which are vital to academic and career success. Originally launched in the United States, Braille Challenge has since expanded to include participants from other countries, promoting braille literacy and inclusion on an international scale.
With the addition of Kenya in 2026, Braille Challenge now includes 70 regional competitions worldwide and has engaged more than 24,000 students over the past 25 years. The program now spans four continents:
- North America: United States, Canada
- Europe: United Kingdom, Ireland
- Australia/Oceania: Australia
- Africa: Kenya
This global footprint reinforces Braille Institute’s leadership in advancing braille literacy as a foundational skill for academic achievement and lifelong independence.
Find a Regional Event Near You
To participate, volunteer, and get involved, find a regional near you. There are over 60 regional events in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, and now Kenya.
Teacher Proctored Contests
If you are unable to attend a regional event you can still participate and take the contest with your teacher. Learn more
Categories
- Foundational
- Apprentice: 1-2 grades
- Freshman: 3-4 grades
- Sophomore: 5-6 grades
- Junior Varsity: 7-9 grades
- Varsity: 10-12 grades
Contests
- Spelling
- Reading Comprehension
- Proofreading
- Reading Charts & Graphs
- Speed & Accuracy
Review sample contest here.
The Braille Challenge begins expanding with its second Regional. The program continues to grow each year, now including more than 1,200 youths from across the United States and Canada and 54 Regional Braille Challenges.
Braille Challenge celebrates its 20th anniversary of promoting the importance of braille literacy with youth. They host the first-ever remote Braille Challenge Finals due to the COVID-19 pandemic social-distancing mandates.
Braille Challenge celebrates its 25th anniversary of promoting the importance of braille with a special 25th anniversary logo.
First Braille Challenge is held, for Southern California youths. It is an academic contest designed to encourage blind youngsters to practice their braille skills.
Braille Challenge holds its 10th annual event, highlighting Braille Institute’s dedication to the awareness of braille literacy.
Proclamation from City of Los Angeles for 20th Anniversary of Braille Challenge in 2020
Thank you to our sponsors for supporting Braille Challenge 2026!
LITERACY LEADER
WORD WIZARDS
CODE CRUSHERS
