Miss Program FAQ

Is there an entry fee to compete?: As the largest scholarship provider for women in the world, there is no entry fee to compete in the miss division of the Miss America Organization. As a local program, we charge a small registration fee to assist with processing expenses.
How do I enter?: To start, check that you qualify to compete according to the Miss America Organization competition rules, become a contestant. Next, go to the Miss Lane County website, download your application, fill it out, and e-mail it to: . Your registration fee can be paid via mail. Your check must be made payable to: Miss Lane County Scholarship Program.
What can I win?: Last year, the Miss America Organization made more than $40 million in scholarship available to young women across the country. Local winners and runners-up will receive a scholarship to the accredited educational institution of their choice, as well as prizes from our generous sponsors. Our winners will have the opportunity to earn additional scholarships at the state and possibly national levels. In addition, all contestants will receive personal coaching in public speaking, fitness, and personal development.
What is a platform?: Each contestant is asked to represent a cause they hold close to their heart. This can be related to an organization you have volunteered for, or even an issue that has affected you personally. It should be one you are passionate and knowledgeable about, as you will be asked to speak on it.
I don't think I have a talent, can I still compete?: A talent can be almost anything in good taste that can be presented on stage in ninety seconds or less. Past presentations have included instrumental solos, martial arts, painting, presentation of pottery and artwork, dramatic/comedic monologue, ethnic dance (hula, Native American, Japanese), and recitation of self-authored poetry.
Do I have to have an expensive wardrobe to win?: No! Many of our past contestants won their local, state, and even national titles in wardrobes that were borrowed, rented, and bought on the clearance rack. The panel of judges do not receive any information about your wardrobe, including how much it cost. What matters most is that you feel good in what you are wearing!
What is the Build Your Own Scholarship?: The Build Your Own Scholarship program is a great way for communities and families to show their support for their contestant by purchasing an ad page and providing scholarship money. When a business, friend, or family member purchases an ad page, the proceeds are split 60/40. The contestant's individual scholarship fund will receive 60% of the cost of the ad page, and 40% will go into the general program fund. The donor can then in turn deduct their donation, as we are a 501(c)4 non-profit organization.

Teen Program FAQ

Is there an entry fee?: As a supporting program of the Miss America scholarship fund, there is a small entry fee for teen contestants. It is important to know that 100% of this fee goes toward the cost of running the show, and the general scholarship fund. Teen contestants do have the opportunity to earn their entire entry fee paid- see below under "Build Your Own Scholarship."
Do I have to wear a swimsuit?: Teen contestants do not wear a swimsuit in our program. Instead, they compete in fitness wear. This could be something they would work out in or wear to the gym.
I'm only 13 years old, how do I collect my scholarship money when I won't go to college for another 5 years?: Your scholarship money is put into a trust account with the Miss Oregon Scholarship Program, which you can receive when you enter college or an accredited institution of higher education. You must apply for these funds within one year of high school graduation.