Membership & Dues
Joining Tennessee DECA provides students with opportunities to develop leadership skills, compete in competitive events, and connect with professionals in the field. As a member, students gain access to educational programs, scholarships, networking opportunities, and career exploration experiences that prepare them for future success in their chosen career.
Membership Registration Information
Students become DECA members by joining their school’s local chapter. Chapter advisors handle the membership registration process and submit all required information on behalf of their students.
Membership Dues
$15 per person ($8 DECA Inc. dues + $7 Tennessee dues)
Send membership payments to:
DECA Inc.
Attn: DECA Membership
1908 Association Drive
Reston, VA 20191
Membership Requirements
Membership is available to students with career interests in marketing, entrepreneurship, finance, hospitality, and management in grades nine through twelve.
Membership is also open to DECA advisors, alumni, and professional members.
All members must join through a local school chapter.
Membership dues are non-refundable. Once an individual has been submitted for membership, they cannot be removed.
Chapter Requirements
All chapters must be part of a high school.
All chapters must have a chapter advisor employed by the school.
All chapters must have a minimum chapter size of 10 student members and one advisor (or any combination of 11 paid members).
Only one DECA chapter is allowed per school.
Types of Membership
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High School Student
DECA’s high school division prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management. Student members gain access to competitive events, leadership conferences, real-world career experiences, and a network of peers across the globe. Membership helps students develop the academic and professional skills they need for college and careers.
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Collegiate Student
DECA’s collegiate division supports college students preparing for careers in business, marketing, and related fields. Members participate in career-focused competitions, leadership development programs, and networking opportunities with industry professionals. Collegiate DECA bridges the gap between classroom learning and real-world success.
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Advisor
Advisors are educators who guide DECA members at the local level and bring DECA into their classrooms. As mentors, coaches, and role models, advisors support students through competitions, chapter activities, and leadership opportunities. DECA provides resources and professional development to help advisors enhance student learning and engagement.
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Alumni
Alumni members are former DECA student members who want to stay connected and give back to the organization that helped shape their careers. Alumni can support DECA through judging, mentoring, and volunteer opportunities, while continuing to expand their own professional network within the DECA community.
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Professional
Professional members are business and community leaders, educators, and supporters who believe in DECA’s mission. They contribute their expertise by mentoring students, judging competitive events, or sponsoring programs. Professional members play an essential role in preparing the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs.