FAQ: Eligibility, Sponsorship & Pageant Weekend Information

Initial Questions & Requirements

What are the requirements for entering the pageant?
TEEN USA DIVISION
You are eligible to apply for the Teen USA Division if you meet the following criteria:

• Female, recognized medically and legally in the United States
• U.S. citizen and meet current residency requirements as established by the MISS USA® Organization for the state in which you are applying (Indiana or West Virginia). Documentation may be required.
• At least 14 but under 19 years of age as of January 1, 2026
• Never married, never had a marriage annulled, and never given birth
• Not a parent, guardian, or currently pregnant

MISS USA DIVISION
You are eligible to apply for the USA Division if you meet the following criteria:

• Female, recognized medically and legally in the United States
• U.S. citizen and meet current residency guidelines as established by the MISS USA® Organization for the state in which you are applying (Indiana or West Virginia). Acceptable documentation is required.
• Minimum age of 18 by January 1, 2026 (There is no upper age limit for this division.)

Do I need pageant experience to compete? No. Many of our contestants are newcomers with little or no previous pageant experience.

Do I need to win a preliminary pageant to compete? No. You do not need to win a preliminary title to compete. Official Local USA titles are optional and may be awarded through the state office.

Is there a talent portion in the competition? No. The competition consists of three scored categories:
• Interview
• Activewear (Teen Division) or Swimsuit (USA Division)
• Evening Gown

Is age a factor in winning? No. Judges are not directed to consider age when selecting a winner. Age only determines division eligibility.

Are there height or weight requirements? No. There are no height or weight requirements. Judges evaluate overall fitness, presentation, and stage presence. Contestants come in all shapes and sizes.

What qualities are you looking for in a winner? We seek a confident, articulate, and community-minded leader who represents her state with integrity, presence, and professionalism at both the state and national levels.

What happens after I submit the online form? Your form will be reviewed by our team. Selected candidates will be contacted to schedule a brief introductory call and will receive additional information about the next steps.

Is there an entry fee? Yes. The participation investment secures your official entry into the state pageant. Details regarding payment options are shared upon acceptance.

What prizes are available? Prize packages vary each year based on sponsor partnerships. The state winner advances to compete at the MISS USA® or MISS TEEN USA® national competition. National entry fees, transportation, shared accommodations, organized meals, and competition wardrobe are coordinated through the state office and sponsors.

How many contestants typically compete? The number of contestants varies each year in both divisions.

What are my travel and lodging responsibilities? Contestants are responsible for their own travel and lodging. A host hotel room block is typically arranged for convenience, and contestants are encouraged to stay at the host hotel to maximize the experience.

What do supporters need to know about tickets and expenses? All attendees must purchase tickets to attend events. Contestants do not need tickets. Official programs, photography, and video packages will be available for purchase. Seating is limited, so early purchase is encouraged.

What responsibilities come with winning? Appearances vary depending on location and availability. Education, career, and family remain priorities. Titleholders may participate in community events, speaking engagements, parades, and promotional appearances throughout their reign.

What if I have tattoos or piercings? Tattoos and piercings are permitted. If concerned about potential distraction, consider wardrobe choices or professional coverage options.

Sponsorship & Paperwork Information

How can I secure sponsors? Sponsors may include family, friends, businesses, or community organizations. Sponsorship guidance and resources are provided upon acceptance.

What happens if I raise more than required? Additional funds may be applied toward wardrobe, optional enhancements, or other pageant-related expenses.

What should I do if a sponsor provides cash? Please convert cash to a money order or check before submitting. Do not mail cash.

Why is a report card or transcript requested (Teen Division)? This may be used solely to verify residency if needed. Judges do not review academic records, and grades do not affect scoring.

What happens if I miss a deadline? Deadlines are important for production planning. If an emergency arises, contact the state office immediately.

What type of headshot should I submit? Submit a professional, head-and-shoulders style image with a clean background. Images should be high resolution.

What are Spotlight Ads? Spotlight Ads are optional features in the official program book that allow contestants additional visibility and space for recognition messages.

Pageant Weekend Information

What are the scoring criteria and wardrobe requirements?

• Interview
  Judges evaluate communication skills, confidence, authenticity, and overall presence.

• Swimsuit (USA Division)
  Contestants wear the official swimsuit provided by the state pageant and supply their own shoes and cover-up if required.

• Activewear (Teen Division)
  Contestants wear the official state-provided activewear and supply their own athletic shoes.

• Evening Gown
  Judges evaluate poise, stage presence, and overall presentation. Choose a gown that reflects your personal style and confidence.

Opening Outfit Opening attire requirements vary each year and are outlined in the official contestant handbook.

Do I need separate gowns for prelims and finals? No. The same gown may be worn for both.

What should family and friends wear? Attire ranges from business casual to formal for all shows.

Can I receive assistance backstage? No outside assistance is permitted backstage. Contestants should be prepared to manage their own hair, makeup, and wardrobe unless utilizing approved weekend services.

When will contestants be posted online? Contestants are typically featured online beginning approximately three weeks prior to the pageant.

Can the pageant be recorded? Personal videotaping is not permitted. Official photography and video packages will be available through our production teams. The prelim and final shows will also be live-streamed, for friends, family, and fans who can not attend in person.