Sing Your Heart Out: American Idol Season 25 Opens!

Aspiring singers can now audition for American Idol season 25, with in-person opportunities available at the CMA Fest on June 5, 2026. The show, which began in 2002, has evolved over the years, moving to ABC and featuring a variety of judges and contestants who have found fame.

Eligibility requirements for season 25 stipulate that contestants must be legal U.S. residents between the ages of 15 and 28. Individuals under 18 require parental or guardian consent. Furthermore, those with immediate family members employed by production companies involved in the show are ineligible, and contestants cannot be running for public office.

Contestants must also ensure they are not under any contractual obligations that would prevent their participation or ability to sign new contracts with producers. While contestants who previously placed first cannot re-audition, those who have advanced in prior seasons may return. Auditions can be submitted online via video or through in-person events.