Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to live in the United States to compete?

Yes, all participants must currently reside in the United States or in a U.S. territory (ex., Puerto Rico, Guam, US Virgin Islands) and have resided in the US or a US territory for at least 5 years prior to date of application submission. Military families and students studying abroad are exempt from the 5-year prior residency requirement.

May I hold another title while representing the Black United States pageant?

No. You may not simultaneously hold an international / national / state title with another pageant organization if named a national titleholder for the BLACK UNITED STATES® PAGEANT. State and regional titleholders are not bound by a non-compete clause.

Do I have to be a black woman to participate?

All participants must clearly identify as a Black woman and be of at least 25% African/African American/Afro-Latina/Afro-Caribbean / Afro-Asian descent.

Is there a height, weight or size requirement for participation?

There are no height, weight or size requirements to enter or win.

What type of women enter the Black United States Pageant?

The BLACK UNITED STATES® PAGEANT attracts women of all vocations and backgrounds. The one thing they all have in common is that they have an eagerness to serve their community and strive for excellence in every aspect of life.

Am I too old to win?

The BLACK UNITED STATES® PAGEANT seeks to crown looking for a well rounded, service driven, articulate & beautiful woman. They are asked not to focus on age but on a contestant's overall qualifications.

Do I need a performing talent?

No. The BLACK UNITED STATES® PAGEANT does not have a performing talent requirement

Do I have to win a preliminary competition to participate?

No, if there is no preliminary/local/state competition in your area, our national selection committee will "Appoint" an official delegate to represent the state/region after an interview with the national office.

I've never entered a pageant before, do I have a chance to win the national title?

Yes. It truly depends on the individual. Everyone is given a fair opportunity to win!

Is there a fee to participate in the pageant?

Yes, there is a fee. There are many expenses incurred for the activities and production of the competition. These fees are necessary for us to produce a memorable pageant experience for our delegates. Please review the fees page for details.

Are my travel, accommodations, and wardrobe included in the national fee?

No, your travel, accommodations, hotel incidentals, meals, wardrobe and all costs associated to participate at the pageant is the responsibility of the contestant unless noted under the FEES section of the website as something we include.

Is the Black United States® pageant associated or affiiliated with any other pageant systems?

The BLACK UNITED STATES® PAGEANT is not affiliated with Miss Black USA, Miss Black America, MBIA, Miss Black Globe, Miss USA, Miss United States, Miss America or any other beauty pageant, competition, contest or event unless explicitly stated by the BLACK UNITED STATES® PAGEANTS national office.