11/07/2025
HBCU Rising Star is the official singing competition of HBCU Honors, airing on BET and BET Her. The campaign spotlights the next generation of musical talent emerging from Historically Black Colleges and Universities, celebrating creativity, culture, and voices that define legacy.
HOW TO ENTER
Think you’ve got the voice to shine on BET? Here’s how to join the search for the next HBCU Rising Star:
Confirm Eligibility
Must be a currently enrolled HBCU student, age 18 or older.
Solo vocal performances only (no groups or bands).
No entry fee required.
Record Your Audition
Length: 60–90 seconds
Style: Original song or cover (no explicit lyrics)
Ensure your video has clear audio and visuals.
Submit Your Entry
Post your video publicly on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube Shorts.
Tag , , and and use .
Complete the entry form at HBCUHonors.org/RisingStar with your name, school, email, and video link.
Selection Process
All eligible entries will be reviewed by the HBCU Honors team.
Three finalists will be chosen to travel to D.C. for mentorship and live auditions.
The winner will perform live during the televised HBCU Honors Special airing on BET & BET Her.
KEY DATES
Date
Milestone
November 2, 2025
Submissions Open
November 11, 2025
Submission Deadline
November 13, 2025
Finalists Announced
November 17, 2025
Live Auditions – Duke Ellington Theatre, Washington, D.C.
November 20, 2025
HBCU Honors Show Taping
November 30, 2025
Broadcast Premiere on BET & BET Her
MEET THE JUDGES
The powerhouse panel guiding this year’s HBCU Rising Star competition.
Raheem DeVaughn, GRAMMY-nominated recording artist and proud Coppin State University alum
Myles Frost, Bowie State University alum and Tony Award-winning actor best known for his role as Michael Jackson in MJ: The Musical
Gabby Samone, acclaimed American Idol finalist and emerging powerhouse vocalist
Shawn Williams, HBCU Honors Music Director
Official Terms & Eligibility Page
ELIGIBILITY
• Must be a currently enrolled student at an accredited HBCU.
• Must be 18+ years old.
• Solo singers only (no groups).
• No entry fee.
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
• 60–90 second vocal performance
• Post publicly on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube Shorts
• Tag , , and presenting sponsor
• Use hashtags
• Complete the form at HBCUHonors.org/RisingStar by November 11, 2025
SELECTION
• All eligible entries reviewed by HBCU Honors judges.
• Three finalists perform live on November 17, 2025.
• Winner announced and will perform during HBCU Honors airing November 30 on BET.
