The Preliminary Round is the first stage of the Ivy International Music Competition and is open to entrants worldwide. Competitors may take part online by submitting a video of their performance, or, in cities where a live preliminary is held, register for the on-site round and perform before a judging panel in person. Both formats are evaluated under the same criteria — technical accuracy, musicality and expression, and stage performance — and carry equal weight in advancing to the next stage. Entrants choose whichever option suits them best.