Optional Contests
Our Optional Contests allow our contestants to showcase their various skills and talents while also providing an opportunity to 'warm up' for the overall areas of competition. Optional Contests have no bearing on the selection of our new International Queens. We utilize a separate panel of judges for these Optional Contests to ensure no bias regarding the overall pageant.
IJM's Top Model
Open to all divisions
This is our signature 'High Title' optional contest. This prestigious title will be bestowed upon the crème de la crème on-stage models of our Junior Divisions (Princess, Jr. Pre-Teen, and Pre-Teen) and Senior Divisions (Jr. Teen, Teen, Miss).
In order to clinch this coveted title, contestants must excel in a 'pick 3' of our on-stage modeling optional contests. That's right; these delegates must showcase their prowess across at least three entries in the following competitions: Fresh Face, Fun Fitness, Runway, and/or Casual Wear. We will automatically pull your Top 3 scores in these events, ensuring the most deserving contender takes home the glory. Click here to check out our modeling optional contests.
$500 Cash Award
Talent Showcase
Open to all divisions
Unleash your inner superstar in our Talent Optional Competition! Whether you dance, sing, act, play an instrument – or show off a talent that’s totally one-of-a-kind – you’ll have 2 minutes to captivate the crowd and own the stage! This is your time to shine, dazzle, and make the IJM stage your spotlight moment. Let’s see what makes YOU unforgettable!
'I Just Might' Public Speaking Contest
Open to all divisions
Dream of being an influencer, news anchor, or debate champion? This exciting contest, designed by journalists, queens, and successful spokesmodels, is for you! You'll receive a hand-held mic and take to the stage to deliver a 1-minute speech on any topic, so long as you include the phrase 'I Just Might.' Stay within the time limit to avoid score deductions.
Media Correspondent
Open to all divisions
Become the face of our event as our Media Correspondent! Winners in each age division will be announced at our Pep Rally Kick-Off and showcased on our social media platforms throughout pageant week. Submit a video reciting a provided script from home, showcasing your telegenic presence and clear communication skills. Don't miss this chance to shine on our IJM Social Media channels!
Most Spirited
Open to all divisions
The 'Most Spirited' Award will be decided upon by our International Staff. We will recognize the delegate entered into the Mini Optionals who has displayed the best energy, spirit, and attitude in her division during the pageant. All delegates will automatically be considered for this recognition.
Volunteer Service
Open to all divisions
Winners in each age division will receive a cash donation to the charity (registered 501c3) of her choice. Use letters of recommendation and certificates to showcase your service. We consider both number of hours and impact. You will submit your entry online prior to the pageant.
"Non Finalist" and "Best" Awards
Open to all divisions
In past seasons, contestants had the option to enter for consideration in “Best” awards across overall areas of competition. This was a paid, optional entry, which at times created confusion --- for example, when a contestant won a “Best” award but did not win the overall title, or when a titleholder did not receive any “Best” awards simply because she had not entered those optional categories. To eliminate this confusion and create a more inclusive and transparent experience, we are retiring IJM Mini Optionals.
Beginning with our 2026-2027 season, we will introduce two new forms of recognition. First, we will present a “Non-Finalist Best” award during the finale, recognizing the top-scoring contestant in each of the Interview, Fun Fashion, and Evening Gown categories who did not advance to the Top 5. Second, after the event (so as not to take away from the excitement and suspense of crowning our new winners), we will announce the overall “Best” in each category on our official social media platforms. ALL delegates will be considered for these recognitions, no 'entry fee' required!
Print Work Portfolio
Open to all divisions
Do you see yourself featured in magazines or on billboard campaigns? The Print Model contest showcases your abilities as an editorial model. Photos must be uploaded to The Pageant Portal in advance. You can upload 3-5 images which will be judged as a portfolio. The photos may be color or black and white and should be editorial in nature... think props, full-body length, and curated images. We are NOT looking for traditional headshots (those are for the Photogenic Optional!).
Photogenic
Open to all divisions
Enter up to three photos for a chance to win Miss Photogenic for your division! Each photo is a separate entry. Makeup is allowed but must be age-appropriate. Photos will be submitted in advance via The Pageant Portal. Consider asking others to help choose your best photo(s).
Print Model Photo Shoot
Open to all divisions
Participate in a natural light mini shoot on-site. Freestyle modeling allowed; no props. Score is based on following guidance provided by the Official Photographer and generating print-worthy content. Photos will be reviewed by judges and 3 will be uploaded for you to download with digital rights so you can use them for your modeling portfolio, printing, or social media! Stay tuned to learn who our Official Photographer will be for our '26-'27 International Finals.
Runway Model Search
Open to all divisions | Qualifier for IJM's Top Model Award
You choose your outfit, aiming for trendy and age-appropriate fashion. Avoid themed looks; accessories like jackets and scarves are fine, but no props. The runway setup is professional, with upbeat music. Strut to center stage, then showcase your outfit with a simple "T" modeling routine. Less is more; focus on your abilities as a model.
Casual Wear Modeling
Open to all divisions | Qualifier for IJM's Top Model Award
Showcase your creativity and personality in this modeling event set to upbeat music. No props, tumbling, gymnastics, acrobatics, fire, or live animals allowed. Custom-designed, overly flashy outfits and swimsuits are prohibited. Follow the same stage pattern as Fun Fashion Preliminary. Avoid lingering on-stage after the emcee announces the next contestant to avoid score deductions.
Fun Fitness
Open to all divisions | Qualifier for IJM's Top Model Award
Join our fast-paced competition showcasing modeling skills and promoting health and fitness. Model an age-appropriate athletic outfit and sneakers; no props allowed. Strut energetically to center stage before showcasing your outfit with a simple modeling routine on a T-shaped runway with upbeat music. Focus on showcasing your abilities as a fitness model; swimsuits are strictly prohibited. Poses such as an arm flex are allowed but, please, no tumbling.
Fresh Face
Open to all divisions | Qualifier for IJM's Top Model Award
Wear a solid black or white shirt paired with plain denim blue jeans - this contest is all about your abilities as a model. Showcase your skills during this professional runway-style competition with a T-shaped runway and upbeat music. We are looking for the industry's 'next big thing.'
