UDC faq
Registration, Eligibility & Deadlines
Who is eligible to compete?
As a standard, all competing dancers must be currently enrolled university students. However, if your team wishes to include non-students (such as alumni or non-student society members), you must contact us in advance to request an official exemption.
Is there a minimum or maximum team size?
Teams must consist of a minimum of five dancers. There is no maximum team size limit!
Can a dancer compete in multiple routines?
Yes, but a dancer may only perform once per dance style. However, they may compete at different skill levels across different styles (e.g., a dancer may compete in K-Pop Beginner and Tap Intermediate, but they cannot compete in both K-Pop Beginner and K-Pop Intermediate).
Do we need to pay per category?
No, the entry fee covers each dancer for the entire competition. You do not pay an additional fee per routine or category.
Is there a limit to how many categories we can enter?
No! There is no limit, you may enter as many categories as your dancers are prepared for.
Where do we find the deadlines and submission forms?
All official deadlines, links, and submission forms for the entire season (including Music, Preliminary Video submissions, T-shirt sizes, and Team Registration) are centrally located on our Key Dates and Deadlines page. We highly recommend bookmarking this page so your team never misses a deadline!
Categories & Judging
What if I am unsure which category or level to enter?
Select the category that most closely fits your routine based on our Category Guidance. If you are debating between two skill levels, we recommend entering the lower level, as teams can only be moved up (not down) during the prelims. Our judges will review all prelim videos and officially re-categorize or promote teams to ensure fairness.
Why is there a preliminary video submission round?
The preliminary round ensures that every team is placed in the correct category and skill level, maintaining a fair competition for everyone. We know it can sometimes be tricky to determine the exact category or level for a routine. By reviewing videos in advance, our judges can correct any misplacements before competition day, eliminating unfair advantages and ensuring everyone competes on a level playing field.
Why do you use a ranking system instead of a total score?
We use total rank rather than total score to negate any potential judging bias or outliers. If we simply added up scores, one exceptionally high or low score from a single judge could unfairly skew a team's overall placement. Using a ranking system (where a judge's highest-scored team gets a rank of 1, the second gets a 2, etc.) ensures that every judge's opinion carries equal weight.
Routine Prep & Stage Rules
What are the dimensions of the stage?
The performance stage measures 14 meters wide by 10 meters deep and includes wings on both sides. A rabbit run allows teams to easily enter from either Stage Left or Stage Right.
Do we need to use the entire maximum time limit?
No. Performances are judged on their quality, impact, and execution, not their length. You only need to use the time necessary to showcase your routine effectively.
Can we use props in our routines?
Yes, but they are only allowed with prior permission from GHGH UK. Props must not affect the stage or interfere with other performances. Any items that are messy or hazardous (including but not limited to flour, glitter, sand, confetti, or water) are strictly prohibited. If you would like to use a prop, please contact us in advance for approval.
Are there any rules for our music track?
Yes. All music must be clean and entirely free of swearing or offensive language. Please ensure your file is in MP3 format and clearly labelled with your University and Category (e.g., "UniOfGHGH_Jazz_Intermediate.mp3"). For submission deadlines and links, please check our Key Dates and Deadlines page.
Event Day & Tickets
Why is the competition split over two days?
Go Hard or Go Home University Dance Championships has grown incredibly fast. We were vastly oversubscribed, with 46 societies from 31 universities competing and an additional 27 societies on our waiting list. To accommodate this massive demand and give more universities the opportunity to perform, we have expanded the event into a thrilling two-day championship.
Can we practice or block our routine on the stage?
Unfortunately, due to the tight schedule of the competition, teams will not be allowed to practice or block routines on the main stage. However, there are two designated practice areas available in the Level 2 and Level 4 Foyers for teams to use throughout the day.
Is there space to get changed and store our bags?
Yes, but please plan carefully as space is shared!
Changing Rooms
We have 10 quick-change rooms available via the Level 2 Foyer. We recommend getting changed at least one hour before your performance. Please do not leave personal belongings in these rooms, as they will be used by other teams throughout the day.
Bag Storage
Due to space limitations, we offer a dedicated cloakroom for large bags only. We ask that teams limit the number of large bags they bring where possible. All smaller bags, backpacks, and personal items must be kept with you under your seats in the main auditorium.
Changing Rooms
We have 10 quick-change rooms available via the Level 2 Foyer. We recommend getting changed at least one hour before your performance. Please do not leave personal belongings in these rooms, as they will be used by other teams throughout the day.
Bag Storage
Due to space limitations, we offer a dedicated cloakroom for large bags only. We ask that teams limit the number of large bags they bring where possible. All smaller bags, backpacks, and personal items must be kept with you under your seats in the main auditorium.
What is the difference between a Team Supporter and Spectator?
Team Supporter Tickets
Must be purchased in advance alongside competitor tickets. Team supporters must arrive with the competing team during their allocated morning arrival slot (7:30 AM - 8:30 AM). They must sit with their team in the designated competitor seating area (not the general spectator area). The team captain will receive these tickets in the morning and is responsible for distributing them.
Spectator Tickets
Can be purchased individually, either online in advance or on the door at the venue. Spectators can arrive at any time after 8:30 AM. They must sit in the general spectator area and cannot sit with the competing teams. Spectators will receive their tickets directly upon arrival.
Must be purchased in advance alongside competitor tickets. Team supporters must arrive with the competing team during their allocated morning arrival slot (7:30 AM - 8:30 AM). They must sit with their team in the designated competitor seating area (not the general spectator area). The team captain will receive these tickets in the morning and is responsible for distributing them.
Spectator Tickets
Can be purchased individually, either online in advance or on the door at the venue. Spectators can arrive at any time after 8:30 AM. They must sit in the general spectator area and cannot sit with the competing teams. Spectators will receive their tickets directly upon arrival.
What is your refund policy for tickets?
All payments for tickets are strictly final and non-refundable. We do not offer refunds or cancellations for any reason (including scheduling conflicts, illness, or inability to attend). However, if a competitor, team supporter, or spectator is unable to attend, their ticket may be freely transferred to another person.
Will there be official photos and videos of the performances?
Yes! Official photography and video recording will take place throughout the competition. Please note: By purchasing a ticket or participating in the event, you consent to being photographed and recorded for our promotional and archival materials.