Which of the following statements about DECA competitions is true?

Competitions in DECA are designed to provide students with experiential learning opportunities that bridge the gap between classroom instruction and real-world application. By participating in these competitions, students have the chance to apply theoretical concepts learned in their courses to practical scenarios, enhancing their understanding and skills. This hands-on experience is integral to the DECA philosophy, as it fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork, all of which are vital in professional settings.

The other options suggest limitations or exclusions that do not align with the inclusive and experiential nature of DECA. For instance, stating that competitions are only for high school students overlooks the existence of collegiate competitions and the broader DECA framework that includes different educational levels. Limiting participation strictly to students interested in marketing ignores DECA's focus on all areas of business and entrepreneurship. Finally, requiring prior experience in business contradicts the organization’s mission to educate and prepare students, many of whom may be new to the field.