How to Become a Contestant on Survivor

Does sitting in the rain in a remote location for seven weeks sound like fun? Consider yourself the ultimate survival expert or are you maybe looking to break out of your comfort zone? Want to compete for a chance to win $1 million in the process? You can do all that by participating on the popular reality show Survivor, but first you need to learn how to become a contestant on Survivor.

Unlike some other reality programs, CBS accepts applications and videos for Survivor contestants throughout the year. Additionally, they hold open casting calls across the country several months prior to each season. The casting process has several stages, including the application process, in-person interviews in several cities, then a final casting session held in Los Angeles. Due to the extreme mental and physical demands the show puts on the competitors, extensive testing is done before prospective contestants are cast for the show.

Step 1: Know The Requirements

To be considered to appear on Survivor, prospective contestants must meet a number of qualifications including age, citizenship, mental health and ability to travel for the casting process.

  1. You must be 18 years or older; citizens of Alabama, Nebraska and Wyoming must be over 19, while citizens of Mississippi and the District of Columbia must be over 21http://www.cbs.com/casting/survivor/Application.pdf
  2. You must be a U.S. citizen and reside within the countryhttp://www.cbs.com/casting/survivor/Application.pdf
  3. You must not be a candidate for or hold any public office and are not permitted to run for office until after the show is broadcasthttp://www.cbs.com/casting/survivor/Application.pdf
  4. You must be in top physical and mental healthhttp://www.cbs.com/casting/survivor/Application.pdf
  5. You must be willing to travel to one of several locations, including Los Angeles, New York City, Seattle, Chicago, Dallad, Detroit, Boston, Atlanta, Miami or Denver, to continue the casting processhttp://www.cbs.com/casting/survivor/Application.pdf
  6. You or your immediate family may not be employed by or affiliated with CBS, Survivor or other related companies or sponsorshttp://www.cbs.com/casting/survivor/Application.pdf
  7. You must have a valid passporthttp://www.cbs.com/casting/survivor/Application.pdf
  8. You must agree to a full background checkhttp://www.cbs.com/casting/survivor/Application.pdf
  9. You must be able to travel to the remote filming location for seven weekshttp://www.cbs.com/casting/survivor/Application.pdf
  10. If you have been invited to Los Angeles for the final round of casting in any previous seasons, you cannot be considered for another seasonhttp://www.cbs.com/casting/survivor/Application.pdf

Step 2: Fill Out the Application

In addition to agreeing to a variety of terms including that you will be filmed in harsh conditions for up to 24 hours a day, the Survivor application will tell the producers a bit about you. Highlight what you do best, but be honest and show them why you'd be an asset to the show.

  1. Download and print the Survivor contestant application
  2. Read, sign and complete the application in its entirety
  3. Be objective, honest and clear
  4. Show your true self, not what you think the producers are looking for
  5. Type or write legibly in dark-colored ink
  6. Read and sign the attached release forms

Step 3: Make a Video

While much can be learned about you by what you write on your application, a video of who you are and why you are special is key to landing a spot as a contestant on Survivor.

  1. Videos must be a maximum of three minutes in lengthhttp://www.cbs.com/casting/survivor/Application.pdf
  2. Videos are only accepted in VHS or DVD formatshttp://www.cbs.com/casting/survivor/Application.pdf
  3. Clearly state who you are and why you want to be on the reality show
  4. Be creative, leaving the producers with something they will remember you for over other applicants
  5. Label your video with your full name
  6. Attach your application, a photo, a copy of your passport and your video, all clearly labeled, and send all to:
    • SURVIVOR
    • 2801 Ocean Park Blvd.
    • Santa Monica, California 90405http://www.cbs.com/casting/survivor/Application.pdf

Step 4: Open Casting Call Option

In preparation for each season, CBS holds open casting calls in various cities around the country. Rather than making a video, prospective contestants can show up for open castings and make their best impression in person.

  1. Visit the CBS website for information on open castings
  2. Be sure to find out when and where the casting will be held
  3. Arrive early and plan for a long day
  4. Dress comfortable but presentable
  5. Show the producers who you are and why you'd be a great fit for their show
  6. Be honest and polite

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