FAQs

Questions,
answered.

Find answers about applying, training and taking part in TCI Top Model.

What is TCI Top Model?

TCI Top Model is the Turks and Caicos Islands’ premier fashion and creative platform, created to discover, nurture and elevate emerging talent. Since 2009, the programme has supported aspiring models and other creatives through casting, professional photo and video shoots, workshops, mentorship and guidance from industry professionals. It celebrates the diverse talent of the Turks and Caicos Islands and helps participants build confidence and develop their craft.

Who can enter the TCI Top Model Contest?

The contest is open to eligible male and female applicants aged 18 to 30 who reside legally and full-time in the Turks and Caicos Islands, regardless of nationality. Applicants must meet the requirements for the relevant cycle, including the minimum height requirements: 5 ft 10 in for male applicants and 5 ft 6 in for female applicants.

Do I need previous modelling experience to enter?

No. Previous professional modelling experience is not required. The competition seeks people with potential, personality, confidence, commitment and a willingness to learn.

When will applications open for the next cycle?

Application dates for each cycle will be announced through TCI Top Model’s official communication channels. Follow the organisation’s social media pages and monitor official announcements for registration details, deadlines and audition information.

Are there application or registration fees?

There is no application or registration fee. A separate fee applies to the official TCI Top Model photoshoot package; its cost and payment instructions will be shared with applicants before the shoot.

Do applicants have to take part in an official photoshoot?

Yes. Applicants are required to take part in the official TCI Top Model photoshoot. The photographs help create portfolios and composite cards for introducing models to judges, modelling agents and prospective clients. Selected images may also be used to promote contestants. Applicants will receive the package fee, styling guide and other details before the shoot.

How do I apply to become a TCI Top Model contestant?

Follow the official online registration instructions on the TCI Top Model website. Provide all requested information and submit the required materials by the stated deadline. Incomplete or late applications may not be considered.

What information should I prepare before applying?

Prepare your personal and contact details, recent photographs and any other information requested on the official application form. You should also be ready to describe your interest in modelling, availability and commitment to the contest.

How are final contestants selected?

Applicants receive training, mentoring and guidance as part of the selection process. Potential contestants are assessed using the criteria for the relevant cycle, which may include overall presentation, confidence, personality, runway walk, photogenic qualities, professionalism and readiness for the modelling industry. Applying and taking part in training does not guarantee selection as a contestant.

How many contestants will be selected?

The number of finalists may vary from cycle to cycle. The organisers determine the final number and inform applicants during the selection process.

What happens after the application process?

Applicants will receive information about the competition schedule, preparation requirements, training sessions, appearances and other activities. After training and evaluation, a number of applicants will be selected to compete. Selected contestants are expected to stay engaged, attend scheduled activities and follow the organisers’ rules. Contestants and continuing programme participants must attend scheduled events, including the launch and grand finale.

What happens if I can no longer participate after being selected?

Notify the organisers as soon as possible. They will review the circumstances in accordance with the competition rules. Withdrawing may affect eligibility for awards, future participation or other opportunities associated with the contest.

What training and development can participants expect?

Participants receive education, training, grooming, mentorship and development at no cost. The workshops support personal growth, introduce industry expectations and develop skills that may benefit future careers. For the 2027 cycle, participants must be available for in-person workshops every Saturday beginning 16 January 2027. Training, activities and events take place on Providenciales. The full schedule, venue and required timings will be shared at the introductory meeting.

Will I receive any compensation?

No. Contestants and models are not paid for participating in scheduled events or related activities, including the grand finale and activities leading up to it.

What are the behaviour, punctuality and dress-code expectations?

Arrive 10–15 minutes before each scheduled session, prepared and ready to participate. Poor behaviour, unprofessional conduct or repeated lateness may result in removal from the programme. Participants should wear black or white tops, blue or black denim and black footwear. For general training, female participants should wear trainers or flat shoes and bring closed-toe heels of at least three inches for runway training; male participants should wear comfortable trainers and may bring suitable runway footwear. Keep hair neat and away from the face, and avoid makeup, jewellery and strong fragrances. Where possible, avoid prints and patterns.

Can I participate in another contest, pageant or fashion event?

The specialist training and development programme is designed to prepare participants for TCI Top Model events. Participants must not enter or take part in another beauty contest, pageant, fashion show or event before an official event on the TCI Top Model calendar. Anyone found taking part in another event will be removed from the TCI Top Model line-up.

Who is responsible for personal belongings?

Leave jewellery and other valuables at home. TCI Top Model, Good Street Management and event venues accept no responsibility for items that are lost, stolen or missing.

Must contestants attend all rehearsals and scheduled activities?

Yes. Contestants are expected to prioritise the competition and attend all mandatory rehearsals, fittings, preliminary competitions, training sessions, meetings, promotional activities and other scheduled commitments. Consistent attendance, punctuality and professionalism are essential.

What are the preliminary competitions, grand finale and awards?

The three preliminary competitions are the Mainstream Media Award (in person), RTC Broadcast Presence Award (in person) and TCI Top Model Fan Favourite (online). The grand finale includes four pre-show and four evening judging categories. The winner is determined solely by grand finale scores; preliminary results are not included in the final score. First and Second Place go to the next highest-scoring contestants. Grand finale awards include Industry Readiness, Model’s Portfolio, Best Body and Best Runway Walk. Selected contestants receive the rules, event details and judging criteria.

What opportunities are available after the competition?

Depending on their performance, availability and opportunities secured by the organisers, contestants may be considered for promotional and commercial work, media and editorial exposure, industry introductions, collaborations and other modelling- or acting-related opportunities. Participation does not guarantee agency representation, employment or international modelling contracts. TCI Top Model’s motto is “One show, many winners.”

Eligibility, schedules, judging criteria and awards may change for each cycle. Review the current application rules and official announcements for the latest information.