Strong Excel skills can give you a real edge in school and the workplace, that’s why the Microsoft Excel Collegiate Challenge (MECC) announces the Spring season 2026, giving students everywhere a chance to put their skills to the test – individually or in a team.
Whether you’re a first-time participant or a returning competitor, this season is packed with challenges, competitions, and live events to grow and showcase your spreadsheet expertise.
Ready, Set, Spreadsheet! Challenge Your Skills!


MECC Spring Season 2026
The MECC Spring Season 2026 has officially begun, bringing a fresh lineup of challenges, competitions, and live events for students eager to test and sharpen their Excel skills. Whether you are looking to compete individually, represent your school, or simply challenge yourself, this season has something for everyone.
Running from January through May 2026, the Spring Season offers multiple ways to participate: online, on campus, and even on the international stage. Students can compete in Junior Varsity and Varsity levels, take part in Weekend Battles.
Throughout the season, participants will have the chance to develop real-world Excel expertise, improve their problem-solving skills, and measure themselves against peers from around the globe. Each event is carefully designed to be both challenging and rewarding, encouraging students to push their limits while having fun.
This article highlights what you can expect this season. For complete formats, eligibility criteria, and rules, please refer to the official MECC Spring Season 2026 Rules.
- New badges and recognition for skill development and participation
- Team e-Invitationals connecting students through collaborative competition
- European Open bringing top players together on the international stage
What’s New in 2026
This season introduces new badges and recognition to reward skill development and active participation, giving students a visible way to track progress and celebrate achievements throughout the Spring Season 2026. Alongside individual competition, Team e-Invitationals connect students through collaborative challenges, encouraging teamwork, strategy, and shared problem-solving in a competitive environment. The Spring Season culminates with the European Open, bringing top performers together on the international stage for a high-level showdown that offers a chance to connect with the global Excel esports community.
Event Overview
In-Person:
- MECC Regionals
Details on the MECC Regionals page
- The MECC European Open:
At H20 Esports Campus, Amsterdam, Netherlands, with more info on the Rules page
Compete:
- Excel Esports Weekend Battles (Individuals):
Four weekends – full schedule available here
- MECC e-Invitationals (Teams):
Organised through College Ambassadors
Practice:
- MECC Challenges:
On ExPrep – flexible timing, video walkthroughs and multiple submission attempts
- MECC Badges (Certificates):
Recognizing skills, participation, and experience

Why Participate?
- Build real-world Excel and analytical skills that employers value
- Earn recognition with badges and certificates
- Compete globally and compare your skills with students worldwide
- Experience live esports competitions and team-based strategy
Pieter Pienaar’s journey shows how MECC can transform a student’s future (excerpt from his 2024 interview where he talked about his Excel Esports journey):
"I didn’t see myself as an Excel person at first, but competing in MECC pushed me to grow. Two years later, I ranked 1st in Africa and 8th globally - an experience that completely changed my career path."
After winning on the international stage, Pieter shared this during his on-stage interview as the MECC Individual Champion 2025:

Ready to Jump In?
Spring Season 2026 is open worldwide and free for online participation. Follow MECC online to stay updated on challenges, competitions, and live events – our socials are right below in the Contacts section.
Don’t wait – sign up today, start solving, and make Spring Season 2026 your MECC season!
MEWC
TAC
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