FAQ's: Eligibility, Sponsorship and Pageant Weekend Information

 

Initial Questions and Requirements

What are the requirements for entering the pageant?
TEEN USA DIVISION: If you are a female (recognized medically and legally as a female in the United States, a United States citizen, a resident of the state of West Virginia, at least 14 but under 19 as of January 1, 2024, have never been married or had a marriage annulled; have never given birth to a child, are not a parent or guardian of any other adult or minor person, and are not currently pregnant. you are eligible to apply to become a contestant in the Teen USA division.

USA DIVISION: If you are a female (recognized medically and legally as a female in the United States, a United States citizen, and a resident of the state of West Virginia, you are eligible to apply to become a contestant in the USA division. The Miss Universe Organization eliminated the age requirement. The minimum age to participate in the Miss West Virginia USA Pageant is 18.

Do I need to have pageant experience to compete in a Miss USA or Miss Teen USA pageant?
On the contrary! Quite often our competitors are the “girls next door” with little or no pageant experience.

Do I have to win a preliminary pageant to compete?
No, you do not need to win a preliminary title or have previous pageant experience to participate.

Is there a talent portion of the competition?
There is no performing talent competition. There are three equally scored categories including Interview, Activewear for the TEEN USA DIVISION, Swimsuit for the USA DIVISION, and Evening Gown.

Am I too old or young to win the pageant?
Never at any time are the judges directed to consider age when choosing a state winner. Age is only a factor in determining in which division you will compete.

Are there any height or weight requirements to enter the pageant?
Absolutely not! Whether you’re 4 feet tall or 7 feet tall, it doesn’t matter. In the swimsuit portion of the competition, the judges will be looking for physical fitness, which includes a healthy and fit body. There is usually a wide range of body styles and types in our semifinalists each year. We are looking for outgoing, intelligent, and confident young women who are excited to represent the state of West Virginia.

What are you looking for in your winner?
We are looking for an outstanding person who will represent the state here at home, as well as at the national MISS USA® Pageant and Miss Teen USA® Pageant.

What happens after I submit my biography?
Once your form is submitted, our review committee will determine if they feel you would make a good candidate for the title. If you are accepted to participate in the pageant, you will be contacted by email.

Is there an entry fee and if so, how much is it?
The total participation fee includes the entry fee, a local USA title, the local USA sash, and for teens, the official activewear. Entry fees help to cover the contestant’s participation costs, the marketing, and production of the event, as well as a year-round staff to prepare the winner for her further competitions and reign. If accepted, contestants receive paperwork packed with ideas and suggestions to help secure sponsorship.

What are the prizes and scholarship monies should I win?
The prizes and awards differ from year to year according to sponsors who are participating in the event. For a look at last year’s prize package go to the respective prize page on this site.

How many contestants compete in the state pageants?
The number of contestants varies from year to year. Some years there may be more Teen USA contestants than Miss USA contestants and in other years, that number is reversed.

How do I get to the pageant location and what are my responsibilities once I am there? What are the expenses incurred by my supporters and me once we arrive?
You are responsible for your own transportation to and from the state pageant location. You will also be responsible for your own lodging during the pageant but we highly recommend staying at the host hotel and we will provide access to a special block of rooms.

Admission to the shows is by ticket only. You as a contestant will not need a ticket – everyone else must have a ticket. There is no limit on the number of tickets that may purchased, and attendees will be able to purchase them online or at the pageant itself prior to the shows.

You will receive an official program book, along with other gifts because of your participation. Your supporters may purchase program books along with photo packages and video recordings of the stage shows at the official Pageant Headquarters that will be set up during the weekend.

The pageant is divided into 3 phases of competition: For Miss USA contestants, these categories are Personal interview, Swimsuit, and Evening Gown. For Miss Teen USA contestants, the categories are Personal interview, Active Wear, and Evening Gown. Each contestant is responsible for her wardrobe needs and all accessories. 

What are my responsibilities should I win and how much time is involved for me and my family?
The time involved should you become a titleholder varies on your location within the state and your desire to make appearances. We make every effort to obtain appearances for titleholders but realize that your education and family are a high priority, so we do our best to accommodate school and family when arranging appearances. Again, this is on a case-by-case basis and requires much coordination and communication between the titleholder and titleholder manager/state director. Appearances will be both on a local and statewide basis and may include parades, style shows, speaking engagements, and/or trade shows.

Transportation to and from the National Pageant is taken care of as part of the prize packages for both winners.  Also, some wardrobe and other expenses are provided for both titleholders. Transportation and expenses for parents to and from the national pageant are their own responsibility.

We understand your concerns as to the time involved and do everything possible to accommodate and coordinate schedules, but there are certain responsibilities that accompany the privilege of becoming a state titleholder.

What if I have a tattoo or body piercing?
Tattoos and piercings are a statement of your individuality and to this point, we have not prohibited anyone from entering the pageant because of them. Judges are not told to look upon someone negatively because of tattoos or piercings, however, judging is a subjective process done by each individual differently.

Should you feel that your tattoo might be a distraction, you may want to make sure it is covered by your swimwear, gown, or even body makeup. If you are uncomfortable with your piercing, you may want to make sure your wardrobe covers it.  You can opt to replace it with something smaller and less noticeable or you can remove it totally for pageant weekend.


SPONSORSHIP & PAPERWORK INFORMATION

Where can I secure sponsors?
Sponsors can include, but are not limited to, your family, friends, local businesses, fraternal organizations and clubs, schools, etc. You are not limited by geographic boundaries. You may secure sponsors from anywhere in or out of the state. If accepted to compete, you will receive paperwork to help secure sponsors. Sponsorships can help defray costs for entry fee, tickets, spotlight ads, wardrobe, etc. You may have as many sponsors as you like, but you will be limited to acknowledging only 20 along with your photo in the official program book. You may buy spotlight ads to highlight additional sponsors.


What if I raise more money than the required sponsorship fee?
If you raise more money than required for your entry fee, you may use the extra funds to cover any additional expenses associated with the pageant. Your overage may be used to purchase Spotlight ads in the program book, transportation or may go to purchasing your wardrobe.


What should I do if a sponsor gives me cash for a sponsorship fee?
If you receive cash contributions for your sponsorship fee, you may put that money into a money order or send a personal check. Please DO NOT send cash through the mail at any time.


Why am I asked to provide a report card/transcript?
This documentation is merely used as a proof of residency. The judges never see this. You will NOT be penalized for poor grades nor rewarded for exceptional grades at the state pageant.


If I need to check FALSE on the morals clause in the contract, will I automatically be disqualified?
No. Each individual case is given consideration. We do ask, however, that you quickly provide the documentation requested by the state pageant offices in order to get the approval process started.


What happens if I can't get my registration materials in before the deadlines?
Deadlines are very important to us in order to make timely program preparations. However, we realize that unexpected circumstances can arise and that the collection of sponsorship may take longer than expected. Therefore, extension on due dates may be available if needed. If you need an extension, please call 304-710-7333 or 304-472-4026, or email the pageant office – coordinator@pageantassociates.com.


What type of photo should I use for my official head-shot photo in the program book?
You will need to submit a professional “head and shoulders” style photo. Make sure there are no distractions in the background in your photo and that you are the sole subject. A 5×7 or larger color photo at 300 dpi should be emailed (coordinator@pageantassociates.com).
 

What are Spotlight Ads?
Many contestants have asked to purchase special advertising pages in our Official State Program Book. So, we are making up to 10 program book pages available per contestant. That is as many as 10 full-page ads or 20 half-page ads or any combination of the two. This is a great way for you to gain added recognition and exposure by “spotlighting” your photo more than once in our book.

As a contestant, your photo is automatically included in our regular pageant lineup. The Spotlight Pages are something extra. Many times, your family members, friends, and other supporters want to give you added visibility. The Spotlight Pages are $350.00 for a full-page ad and $250.00 for a half-page ad.

DO NOT CONFUSE SPOTLIGHT ADS AND SPONSORSHIP FEES. Sponsorship Fees are required. Spotlight Advertising is not. Sponsors are listed in a special location in the program book. Spotlight advertisers and supporters will appear in your Spotlight Ads. YOU MAY PAY FOR YOUR SPOTLIGHT ADS BY CHECK, MONEY ORDER, OR CREDIT CARD. You may send a camera-ready file of your Spotlight Ad or you may send a rough sketch to us showing how you want your Spotlight Page(s) arranged. If you send a sketch, it is best if you obtain a business logo or letterhead from your advertiser(s) so that our printer can reproduce your Spotlight Page(s) clearly. If you do not send camera-ready copy, you can have the program book designer design your ad for you for an additional cost of $100.00. Please note that the program book designer will use their own discretion in designing the ad and cannot be held responsible for mistakes. Remember, you can reserve up to a total of 10 pages in the program book. Your advertisers and supporters may pay for Spotlight Pages by check, money order, or credit card. PLEASE NOTE: All credit card statements will show payments made to Pageant Associates.

 

 


HOW THE PAGEANT WEEKEND WORKS

What are the judging criteria and wardrobe requirements for the pageant?
INTERVIEW – You will appear before the judges "panel style". The procedure will have you standing at a podium in front of 2 panels of judges for a minimum of 2 minutes each. The judges will use this opportunity to consider your personality and overall presence. This is your chance to impress each judge with your opinions, your ability to communicate, and your overall sense of self. The judges will not be looking for rehearsed answers. They will have your Final Biography Form to use as a reference, but questions may be asked on any topic.

The most important thing to remember about the Personality Interview Competition is that it is ALL about your PERSONALITY! When it comes to deciding what you will wear for this competition, allow your personality to influence your decision. Teen USA contestants are urged to wear whatever they feel is appropriate for an interview, with this thought; have fun with it while presenting yourself in a confident manner (no jeans). USA contestants are urged to be more sophisticated with your wardrobe choices.

SWIMSUIT FOR MISS USA CONTESTANTS – Miss USA contestants may choose either a one or two-piece swimsuit in any print, pattern, or design. Look for a style that flatters your body type. The suit must be in good taste; therefore, no thongs or Brazilian cut. Pantyhose are not permitted, but you may use leg makeup. Oils and heavy body lotions should not be used. To keep your swimsuit from riding up in the back, there are products called “Firm Grip” and “It Stays.” These products can be obtained online or in pageant/dress stores. Shoes should be 3” or higher. Taupe, tan, neutral color or clear shoes are recommended. Wearing bright shoes for swimsuit competition will bring attention to your feet. We recommend choosing a quality-made competition swimsuit that will be appropriate for onstage. Pay special attention to the swimsuit lining, due to the bright stage lighting.

ACTIVEWEAR FOR MISS TEEN USA CONTESTANTS – Miss Teen USA contestants will wear an active outfit to wear in lieu of swimsuits. Active Wear tops must be form-fitting, full-length athletic tanks or crop tops (sports bras). Active Wear bottoms should be form-fitting athletic shorts, capris or leggings. No baggy pants or tennis/athletic skirts allowed. Active Wear shoes should be athletic tennis shoes that compliment your activewear outfit. Active Wear socks should be white or black ankle socks that are barely visible, if visible at all. While we understand that shoes may have logos on them, there are to be no logos, graphics, or brands on Active Wear apparel that is larger than the palm of your hand. No embellishment may be added to Active Wear tops or bottoms (sequins, rhinestones, etc.), no jewelry (other than simple stud earrings), hats or props of any kind may be worn.

EVENING GOWN – Judges focus on poise, overall appearance, and sense of fashion and style. No single detail of the gown, hair or make-up should garner attention. The overall effect should be a reflection of your personal style. You will need one evening gown. Choose your BEST color, a style that looks great on you and will show well on stage.

OPENING OUTFIT – Each Contestant will need a cocktail length dress (above the knee) or pantsuit for the opening of the Final Show on Sunday. It is to be completely BLACK or completely RED. The dress can have sequins, rhinestones or beading, but cannot have any other color than black or red. Select appropriate shoes that you will be able to move well in. The shoes should have at least a 3” heel. Be sure to complete this look with accessories of your choice.

Do I need a different gown for finals than I do for preliminaries?
No. We highly recommend wearing the same gown for both preliminaries and finals. Nearly all contestants at the state pageant wear the same gown for both.

What is the Opening Number outfit for?
At the beginning of one of the shows, each contestant will be introduced to the audience during an upbeat, choreographed introduction number (contestant will not sing and the choreographed moves are very easy – you do not need to be a dancer).  

Do I need to pay for my hotel and food during pageant weekend?
Yes. Your hotel room and meals during the weekend are not included in the entry fee. If you choose to stay in a hotel pageant weekend your room for those nights would be at your own expense.

Who are the judges and where do they come from?
We are hard at work, searching the country for outstanding individuals to serve in these positions. Our judges are always from varied and exciting backgrounds and include some of pageantry’s most qualified individuals. We do not ask, or allow, judges to repeat these duties any two consecutive years.

Can anyone assist me while I am competing in the pageant?
Only contestants and staff are permitted in the dressing room or backstage during the pageant weekend. Preparing for the pageant should be FUN and can be done on your own. Please note that you must be “self-sufficient” during the pageant weekend, which means that no hair stylists or makeup artists will be allowed to assist you.  If you do work with professionals prior to the pageant, make sure that they prepare you to do your own hair and makeup and truly be “self-sufficient”. If you have any questions regarding your preparations or just need some extra encouragements…don’t hesitate to call us!

What should my family and friends wear to the pageant preliminaries and finals?
We recommend anything from business casual to formal wear for the pageant preliminaries and pageant finals.

Will I have time to visit with my family, friends, and out of town guests during pageant weekend?
Once you check in, contestants will have a packed schedule of activities, including meals, interviews, rehearsals and shows. You may also want to plan on arriving early or staying an extra day in the host city, to enjoy the experience with your guests. Time permitting, we will make every effort to include designated family meet and greet opportunities.

When will this year's contestants be posted on the pageant website?
The photos will be posted on the state pageant website approximately one week prior to the state pageant. Note: The photo you submit as your Official Head Shot, in addition to your on-stage presence during pageant weekend, is what will be used when judged for Miss Photogenic.

Will the pageant be televised?
Right now there are no plans to televise the state pageant, however the Miss USA Pageant is usually televised and the Miss Teen USA Pageant is usually webcast from its location.

Can we videotape the pageant?
Videotaping by members of the audience is prohibited. You will have the opportunity to purchase videotape and photo packages from our official photographers and videographers.