Each student must:

1. Be a citizen of the U.S., of African-American descent, and enrolled in grades 9-12.

2. Have demonstrated a genuine interest in one of the available 24 categories.

3. Have never performed as a paid professional in any category of intended competition.

4. Submit an entry application to their high school ACT-SO Coordinator on or before the last day in March.

5. Be present (and on time) for the competition.