CIA | 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Meet Your 2026 Instructors
CIA | 2026
FAQ's
Answers to Common Questions About CIA 2026
Applications Open April 1st 2026!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CrossExamined Instructor Academy 2026?
The CrossExamined Instructor Academy 2026 is an intensive three-day Christian apologetics training event hosted by CrossExamined. The event is designed to provide a unique environment for advanced, in-person training for the next generation of Christian apologists to be better equipped to present the arguments for Christianity.
Regardless of the circumstances you may normally face, whether while having coffee with friends, in a meeting at work, or on stage in a debate, the CrossExamined Instructor Academy is the Christian apologetics training event you cannot miss.
Is this event only for professional apologists?
Not at all. While many attendees are pastors or ministry leaders, and some attend year after year to continue sharpening their skills, the CrossExamined Instructor Academy is open to any committed Christian who wants to grow in training and understanding and become better at delivering a reasonable, compelling, and engaging argument for Christianity.
Who should attend the CrossExamined Instructor Academy?
This event is ideal for:
• Aspiring Christian apologists
• Pastors and church leaders
• College or university campus ministry leaders
• Theology, philosophy, and seminary students
• Christian educators
• Serious believers who want to confidently defend their faith
Whether you are new to apologetics or already teaching others, we would love to see you attend the CrossExamined Instructor Academy 2026.
What if I can’t present?
If you can’t present this year, we still encourage you to attend and be part of the Audit Track.
Is Lodging Included?
Travel and lodging expenses are not included in the tuition fee and are the responsibility of attendees. However, four meals are included, and upon full acceptance and confirmation, you will receive a discount code for a nearby hotel.
Are Scholarships Available?
Yes, there are a limited number of scholarships available.
How is C.I.A. different than other Christian training events?
Unlike large inspirational conferences, the CrossExamined Instructor Academy is not a conference where you simply gain information. The CrossExamined Instructor Academy focuses on hands-on apologetics training.
The sessions are intentionally designed to be interactive and to help you become better equipped in the following areas:
• How to get an audience to engage in critical thinking
• Debate skills and strategies
• Cross-examination techniques
• Engaging and responding to challenging objections in a well-grounded way
• How to intrigue and captivate while delivering a persuasive case
This is not just information. It is skill development.
What topics will be covered at CIA 2026?
Topics typically include:
• How to present evidence without using the Bible
• Exposing logical fallacies
• Why your arguments are not working
• How to start and maintain a successful podcast
• The reliability of the New Testament
• Engaging the top objections to Christianity
• The moral argument
• Effective public communication
Each year’s content is different, as the CrossExamined Instructor Academy is intentionally designed to address some of the most pressing challenges facing Christians today.
Will there be opportunities to interact with speakers?
Yes. One of the defining features of the CrossExamined Instructor Academy is direct access to instructors. Attendees can participate in Q&A sessions, discussions, and informal conversations throughout the three-day event.
Where and when is the CrossExamined Instructor Academy 2026 being held?
The in-person 2026 CrossExamined Instructor Academy will be held in Charlotte, North Carolina. Full details regarding location, schedule, and accommodations are available on the registration page.
What will I gain from attending CIA 2026?
Attendees can expect to:
• Make a persuasive case for Christianity
• Intrigue friends and relatives to investigate Jesus
• Capture an audience with proven presentation techniques
• Answer the most challenging objections to Christianity
• Stay cool under pressure and master Q&A strategies for real conversations
• Know the right questions to ask a pressing skeptic
• Receive personal instructor feedback
• Receive a CrossExamined Instructor Academy certification
The goal is transformation into a more effective defender of the faith.
Is there a limit to how many people can attend?
Yes. The CrossExamined Instructor Academy is intentionally structured to allow for personal and meaningful interaction with speakers and instructors, which means seating is very limited. Early registration is encouraged.
How do I register for the CrossExamined Instructor Academy 2026?
We strongly encourage you to join the waitlist to gain early registration access. You can also secure your seat by completing the online registration form on this website. Early registration may provide access to discounted pricing or additional resources.
Why is apologetics training important in today’s culture?
Christians are increasingly challenged on moral, scientific, and philosophical grounds. Apologetics training equips believers to respond with clarity, evidence, and biblical confidence in a culture shaped by skepticism and secularism.