Highland dancing is a sport that thrives on precision, tradition, and fair competition — and that extends to the way dancers are registered.
While the initial registration process with the Federation of United States Teachers and Adjudicators (FUSTA) is straightforward, special situations can arise that require additional steps or clarification.
Whether you’re moving to a new region, experiencing a delay in receiving your card, or need a rush request, this guide will help you navigate registration updates and exceptions with confidence.
Why Registration Updates Matter
Your FUSTA registration card is more than just proof of membership — it is your official authorization to compete in SOBHD-sanctioned events in the United States and abroad. Keeping it updated ensures that:
- You’re competing in the correct region and category
- Organizers can verify your eligibility on competition day
- Your results are recorded accurately for advancement
When You Need to Update Your Registration
There are several scenarios in which you’ll need to make changes or take extra steps regarding your card:
1. Moving to a New Region
If you relocate, your current card remains valid until you either:
- Move up to the next category (e.g., Novice to Intermediate), or
- Renew your registration the following year in your new region
Example: If you move in May and your renewal is due in December, you can continue competing in your old region until renewal time.
2. Attending College Outside Your Home Region
College students often live in one region during the school year and another during breaks. FUSTA allows you to compete in either region if you have lived there for at least six months before the Regional Championship.
Process for Competing Outside Home Region:
- Submit a Request for Change of Regional Registration form by February 15 each year.
- Provide proof of either your birth region (birth certificate) or current residency (address verification).
- The National Registrar will notify you by March 1 confirming your competition region for the year.
3. Delayed Registration Cards
Most cards are processed within three weeks. If it takes longer:
- Contact the National Registration Secretary
- Provide your application date, payment details, and any tracking information
- Delays can happen during peak registration seasons, so apply early if possible
4. Rush Requests
Sometimes emergencies arise — a late decision to compete or a last-minute competition opportunity. Some registrars can expedite your card if:
- You contact them in advance
- You provide all required documents and fees immediately
- You include a prepaid express return envelope
Note: Not all registrars can accommodate rush requests due to workload.
5. Group Submissions by Teachers
If a teacher wants to send multiple students’ forms in one envelope, they should check with their regional registrar first. Some registrars accept group submissions; others prefer individual mailings to keep paperwork organized.
Photo Requirements for Registration
Your card must include a clear, recent photo:
- Helps verify dancer identity at competitions
- Ensures the card remains valid for multiple years (especially for Beginners/Novices)
- Allows easy sticker updates without reissuing the card
Tip: Choose a headshot with good lighting and a plain background.
Common Registration Updates & How to Handle Them
| Situation | Required Action | Deadline | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moving to a new region | No immediate change unless advancing or renewing | Renewal period | Register in new region at next renewal |
| College outside home region | Submit Request for Change of Regional Registration | Feb 15 | Must provide birth certificate or proof of address |
| Delayed card | Contact National Registration Secretary | After 3 weeks | Provide application and payment details |
| Rush request | Contact regional registrar | ASAP | Include prepaid express return envelope |
| Group submissions | Check with regional registrar | Before sending | Some regions do not allow group mailings |
Tips for a Smooth Registration Update Process
- Plan ahead — if you know you’ll be moving or changing regions, prepare documents early
- Keep digital copies of your forms and photos for future use
- Track mail — use a postal tracking service to confirm delivery to the registrar
- Communicate clearly — include a cover letter outlining your request when sending updates
Special circumstances in Highland dancing registration don’t have to be complicated.
By understanding FUSTA’s policies on moving regions, delayed cards, rush processing, and photo requirements, you can avoid last-minute stress and ensure uninterrupted competition eligibility.
Staying proactive with updates keeps you aligned with FUSTA and SOBHD rules, allowing you to focus on what truly matters — your performance on the dance floor.
FAQs
Can I compete in my old region after moving to a new one?
Yes, until your next renewal or category advancement. After that, you must register in your new region.
Will FUSTA automatically update my card if I move?
No. You must request the change during renewal or when advancing categories.
Can a teacher submit all their students’ forms together?
Sometimes. It depends on your regional registrar’s preferences — always check before sending.