Model Applications - The Chance of Your Lifetime

You get compliments on your looks all the time, love taking photos and prefer to change outfits several times a day? Then a model application could be just the right idea for you. To really take off as a model, you need a whole lot of unexpected talents on top of good looks. How model applications work, what requirements you need to meet and where you have the best shot at a career, you'll learn here.

What Requirements Should You Meet?

The models on the world's runways all seem to fit a certain type, at least that's how it looks to us. Taller than the average woman, with striking features and above all, not an ounce of excess fat. But can these vague descriptions be expressed in numbers? In fact, most agencies do have guidelines, especially for height and age. As for age, the requirement is to be between 14 and 20 years old. Of course this depends on the agency and a few other conditions, but usually the number is toward the lower end, so the younger, the better your chances. At least for someone who is aiming for a professional career and is just starting to model. Height also plays a decisive role in a model application. To work as a runway model, agencies often expect a minimum height of 5'9" (1.74 m). If you're aiming for a career as an underwear model, a height of 5'6" (1.68 m) is sometimes enough. Dress size should be between US 4 and 6 (EU 34 to 36). Firm skin and a defined, well-proportioned body are important. Other criteria for a successful model application include clear skin, straight white teeth, well-groomed hair and high cheekbones. Personality-wise, you should love to travel, be open-minded and disciplined. Foreign language skills and acting talent are also an advantage.

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Where and How to Apply

If you meet the most important requirements and are truly aiming for a professional career, the key agencies are Ford Models, IMG and Elite. You can take your application into your own hands and check the agencies' websites to see exactly how you can apply. Only a few models, like Kate Moss or Claudia Schiffer, were discovered at the airport or in a nightclub by model scouts. If you don't want to wait for that, it's certainly an advantage to take action yourself. It's important to assess which requirements you meet. And even if you don't meet the standard requirements, there are plenty of agencies that specialize in plus-size models, tattoo models or unusual types as faces for advertising. So you have a chance to model either way, if it's your dream.