The journey to the prestigious Universal Dance Association (UDA) National Dance Team Championship in 2026 requires dedication, skill, and a clear understanding of the qualification pathways. For teams aspiring to compete on this national stage, there are two essential prerequisites: achieving Varsity Spirit/NFHS Squad Credentialing and securing a UDA Nationals bid. This guide breaks down the qualification process, ensuring your dance team is well-prepared for the challenge.
Three Routes to Nationals: Camp, Credentialing, and Regionals
There are primarily three avenues for high school dance teams to qualify for the 2026 UDA National Dance Team Championship. Each path offers a unique opportunity to demonstrate your team’s talent and earn your place at Nationals.
1. UDA Camp Qualification: Credentialing and Bids Combined
Attending a Universal Dance Association (UDA) Camp is a highly effective way to fulfill both qualification requirements simultaneously. UDA Camps offer the Varsity Spirit/NFHS Squad Credentialing program and multiple avenues to secure a Nationals bid. Here’s how teams can earn their bid at camp:
- Home Routine Trophy Winners: Teams that showcase exceptional performance and win a home routine trophy at a UDA Camp with five or more members automatically receive a bid.
- Superior Trophy Winners: Achieving a Superior trophy at a UDA Camp with five or more members also grants your team a coveted bid to Nationals.
- Varsity Branded Camp Attendees: Teams attending any Varsity branded camp with at least five members have an opportunity to qualify, but they must secure their bid at a UDA Regional Competition.
It’s important to note that to be eligible for a bid at camp, 75% of your team members (with a minimum of 5 participants) must be credentialed. Furthermore, qualifying camps must be at least 2 days in length and can be overnight, day, or home camps. Superior trophies at overnight and day camps are awarded based on athlete evaluations across all routine evaluations, while home camps require each athlete to be evaluated on a minimum of two camp routines to qualify for a Superior trophy.
Ready to kickstart your journey to nationals? Click here to find a UDA Camp near you and take the first step. For personalized assistance in setting up a Home Camp, connect with your State Director.
Important Reminder: Only UDA Camps spanning 2+ days provide both Varsity Spirit/NFHS Squad Credentialing and Nationals bid opportunities.
2. Varsity Spirit/NFHS Squad Credentialing Program: Focus on Credentialing
The Varsity Spirit/NFHS Squad Credentialing program is a vital component of the qualification process. While UDA Camps integrate this credentialing, teams can also pursue this credential independently. To delve deeper into the Squad Credentialing Program and understand its specific requirements, it’s best to reach out directly to your State Director. They can provide detailed information and guidance on completing this essential step.
3. UDA Regional Championships: Secure Your Bid Through Competition
For teams seeking a competitive route to Nationals, UDA Regional Championships offer a direct qualification pathway. By achieving a placement trophy at a UDA Regional competition before December 31st, 2025, your team can earn a bid to the 2026 UDA National Dance Team Championship.
Explore the exciting opportunities awaiting at UDA Competitions by clicking here to learn more about UDA Regionals and find your State Director for further assistance.
It’s crucial to remember that even when qualifying through UDA Regionals, teams must have also completed the Varsity Spirit/NFHS Credentialing program to be eligible for NDTC.
Conclusion: Your Path to UDA Nationals Starts Now
Qualifying for the 2026 Universal Dance Association National Dance Team Championship is a two-pronged process involving Varsity Spirit/NFHS Squad Credentialing and securing a UDA Nationals bid. Whether you choose to pursue qualification through UDA Camps or UDA Regional Championships, understanding these requirements is the first step towards realizing your national dance team dreams. Start planning, prepare your team, and set your sights on the ultimate stage at UDA Nationals!
