How to Get Started in Pageants

Some winning pageant contestants will receive tiaras.

If you've ever dreamed of entering a beauty pageant, your dreams can become a reality. Every year, thousands of men, women and children dress in stylish, trendy clothing and accessories to wow pageant judges with their distinctive looks, presentations and talents. To participate in these events, you must follow all entry guidelines and meet certain criteria. Whether you're an upcoming senior in high school or a mom with an infant, you can become a pageant contestant today.

Instructions

1. Check with your local radio stations, civic groups, school websites and newspapers for pageant announcements. Some agencies announce or advertise pageants to the local community through these avenues.

2. Review the pageant’s rules and guidelines. You can find most of the main guidelines on the front page of the pageant’s entry forms. Although the guidelines and requirements vary depending on the pageant type, you'll find most guidelines are similar. For example, you'll find residency, age and educational requirements. Some sponsors host pageants specifically for people who belong to a particular group or organization or from a particular cultural background.

3. Gather important documents. Many pageants require school age contestants to submit their school transcripts, in addition to birth certificates for age verification. Depending on the particular pageant, you might also be required to provide membership documentation if the pageant is open only to members of certain groups, clubs or organizations.

4. Create a photographic portfolio. Pageants often require contestants to submit a professional headshot, in addition to pictures of you modeling different outfits and poses.

5. Complete and submit your application. Include your headshot, if required, all supporting documents and submission fees. If you’re under 18 years old, most pageants require a parent or guardian’s permission and signature on your application before you can submit it.

6. Attend the pageant. After you receive the green light to participate, you will receive further instructions about the time, date and location of the pageant. Most pageants consist of an interview, talent presentation and the swimsuit or evening gown competition. You might also be asked to give a short speech concerning your views about causes or events, such as recycling or world peace.

Tips & Warnings

• Flashing a genuine smile conveys confidence and a positive attitude.

• Choose a talent that you can perform well in a short period of time, as some contests will only allow contestants one or two minutes to perform.

References

• Tougaloo College: Miss Tougaloo Mississippi Pageant
• The Miss Brea Pageant: Contestant Eligibility Requirements
• Puerto Rican Festival: Pageant Requirements
• Ohio Association of the Defa: The Miss Ohio Pageant: Eligibilty Rules and Requirements