Welcome to the TFNation 2025 Cosplay Application form!
This year we’ve made a few changes to the way we’ll be processing your application; the pre-judging stage, and also the Parade itself – so whether you're a first-timer, or a veteran of our stage, please take a moment to read this page carefully so you understand how we’ll be working this year.
The short version – we’ll be capping the number of entrants, and allocating a set amount of time for each individual’s pre-judging slot.
For the longer version – please read on!
Building a Cosplay costume and organising a convention may be different, but there are definitely some similarities! Firstly, you have to come up with a great idea and a plan. Then you have to source everything you need to start your build. All the while, you need to keep an eye on timings as no matter how great your plans may be, the end product still needs to be ready on time!
We’ve been fortune enough to achieve many things at TFN, but sadly we haven’t managed to defeat time itself (yet!). With a finite amount of time, and an ever-increasing number of cosplayers, we’ve reached a point where there really isn’t time, or space, to fit in greater numbers safely.
At the same time, we’re conscious that different Cosplayers treat their pre-judging time in different ways. Some simply like to present their costume and answer any questions the judges may have; whilst some come armed with full presentations, which can take longer to process. Moving forward, we want to do more to try and ensure each entrant has a fair amount of time with the judges before the event starts.
By bringing in an upper limit on applications, we will be able to see how many Cosplayers we have, and divide the time up fairly, rather than trying to squeeze people in and inadvertently trimming their time. Applying an upper limit will bring Cosplay in line with other areas of the convention, such as The Forge, Trader Slots, Guest lists and Attendee numbers.
Yes – as was the case last year, you MUST pre-register AND be accepted to appear in the Parade. On the day applications are not allowed.
Step One - The Cosplay Parade takes place during Saturday Night ClubCon. So you will need a Saturday and a ClubCon ticket before you can register.
Step Two – You’ll then use the form at the bottom of this web page to submit your application – they’re open right now! Applications will close at 6pm (BST) on Sunday 29th June 2025.
Step Three – We’ll aim to have applications reviewed within 14 days of closing, depending on how many questions arise. We’ll then contact every applicant, to let you know if you’ve been selected this time.
If we receive more applications than we are able to accommodate, TFN judges will decide which applications to progress – so be sure to include all the relevant details when you apply!
If we notify you that you’ve not been selected this time, you’re still very welcome to wear your cosplay around the rest of the convention.
Pre-judging is presently scheduled to take place at approximately 17:30 (BST) in the Kings Suite (ClubCon), before the room opens to attendees at 19:00 (BST). Please note: these timings are subject to our final schedule of events and therefore may change - don't worry, we will make an announcement if necessary.
Each entrant will be afforded up to one minute each to present their costume to the Judges. You'll be able to use this minute in any way you like, such as simply showing your costume, or explaining your ideas either verbally, or with progress images, etc.
The Judges will then be able to ask any questions they may have. (The judges may not need to ask questions, if they've already fully understood your entry)
There’s no fixed order, but please do arrive on time as if you miss pre-judging, you may not be able to take part in the Parade.
During this time, our stage crew will also show you where you will be entering and exiting the stage. Please listen to them carefully so we can ensure everybody is kept safe.
The Parade will take place at approximately 19:10 (BST) in the Kings Suite (ClubCon).
Our stage crew will tell you the order in which you will be called to the stage.
Cosplayers will wait behind the stage until their turn. We’ll have water and chairs available for Cosplayers who are able to sit in their costumes.
Once called, you will walk through the curtains and up some steps onto the stage. Here you’ll have a little time to pose and show off your costume. We'll then fade out your music, and announce your character name again as you exit via the ramp.
(If you are not able to walk up the steps, please indicate this in your application, so we can provide a modified route for you).
Following the Parade, winners will be notified and called back to the stage.
Mech Cosplay: Includes full and partial rig costumes, replicating the appearance of robot characters from Transformers.
Human Cosplay: Includes human characters from Transformers, such as Verity Carlo and Spike Witwicky, holomatter designs such as those seen in the IDW comics, and humanised interpretations of Transformers robot characters.
The judging panel will be chosen in advance by TFNation staff. The judges will choose the winners based on numerous factors, which might include;
These categories are just there to give guidance to entrants and judges alike, and are not fixed scoring categories. (So for instance, you won't score negatively on creativity, when trying to make an accurate portrayal of a character)
All entrants must please adhere to the following rules, and are deemed to have provided their agreement to the same, by completing the application form;
Please note, Judges' decisions are final. If your costume/presentation breaks these rules, we reserve the right to ask you to make a change, or we may remove your entry from the competition. Obviously, we very much hope that won't be necessary, but trust you'll appreciate we have to ensure everybody's safety.
Thanks for taking the time to read this message - we can't wait to see you and your wonderful creations at TFNation!