Competition FAQ

Registering as a first-time competitor

1. Can someone compete if they solve slowly and have never attended a competition before?

   Yes. Previous competition experience and fast times are not required. The competitor should know how to solve the puzzle, follow the rules and be able to finish within the time limit announced for the event.

2. Do I need to be a WCA member or join a federation?

   No. The WCA does not require competitors to purchase membership or join a national federation.

3. Is there a minimum or maximum age?

   There is no minimum or maximum age. Competitors under 18 must have consent from a parent or guardian.

4. Do I need a WCA ID before registering?

   No. A first-time competitor receives a WCA ID after the results of their first official competition are published.

5. How do I create an account on the WCA website?

   Choose the sign-up option, enter an email address and password, state that the competitor has not competed before, and provide the competitor’s personal details.

6. Can a parent register a child through the parent’s account?

   A parent may create and manage an account on the child’s behalf, but the account must contain the child’s details as the competitor. The child should not compete using the parent’s personal WCA profile.

7. What information is required during registration?

   Usually the competitor’s full name, represented country, date of birth, contact details and selected events. Organisers may request additional information needed for the competition.

8. Must the name be written in Latin letters exactly as it appears in the passport?

   Use the competitor’s full legal name or the name they genuinely use in real life; the surname must be legal. The details should be consistent with identification. Where a document uses another script or several transliterations are possible, use a consistent real-life spelling and contact the organisers or Delegate if uncertain.

9. Can the name, date of birth or country be changed later?

   Before the first competition, report mistakes to the organisers immediately. After a WCA profile has been created, changes are requested through the WCA Results Team or a WCA Delegate. A country change requires citizenship and is subject to additional timing rules.

10. What should I do if no registration confirmation arrives?

    Check the spam folder, the registration status on the competition page, payment status and any waiting-list notice. Contact the organisers through the address on the competition page if the status remains unclear.

Payment and confirmation of participation

11. Is competition registration free or paid?

    It depends on the competition. Some events are free; others charge a base fee or additional fees for selected events.

12. When and how must the fee be paid?

    The method and deadline are stated on the competition page. Payment may be online during registration, by bank transfer or through another method chosen by the organisers.

13. Can I pay in cash at the venue?

    Only when the competition page explicitly says that on-site payment is accepted. Do not assume cash payment will be available.

14. Is the fee refunded if the competitor becomes ill and cannot attend?

    Refund rules are set by the organisers. Some competitions offer a full or partial refund before a stated deadline, while others do not offer refunds.

15. Does submitting a registration mean participation is confirmed?

    Not always. Registration may still be awaiting payment, organiser approval or an available place. Participation is confirmed when the registration is accepted and the person appears on the official competitor list.

16. Why might a competitor be placed on a waiting list?

    Usually because the competitor limit has been reached. Waiting-list order may depend on registration time, payment time or other conditions announced in advance.

17. How will I know that I have moved from the waiting list to the competitor list?

    Organisers normally send an email and update the registration status on the competition page. Check messages regularly.

18. What can I do if the competition is already full?

    Join the waiting list when one is available. Do not arrive without an accepted registration expecting to receive a place at the venue.

19. Can I register after registration has closed?

    Only if the organisers reopen registration or specifically approve a late entry. There is no automatic right to register after the deadline.

20. Must I separately confirm that I will attend?

    It depends on the event. Some competitions require an additional confirmation or venue check-in, while others require only an accepted and paid registration.

Choosing events and preparing to compete

21. Which events can I enter at my first competition?

    Any event offered at the competition that the competitor is able to perform. Starting with 3x3, 2x2, Pyraminx or Skewb may be simpler, but it is not required.

22. Must I enter 3x3 before choosing other events?

    No. A competitor may enter other offered events without entering 3x3.

23. Can I register for only one event?

    Yes, unless the organisers have clearly announced a different requirement.

24. Can events be added or removed after registration?

    Often they can be changed before registration closes. After that, contact the organisers; they may accept or refuse the change depending on the schedule and capacity.

25. What is an event time limit?

    It is the maximum allowed time for one attempt or a combined set of attempts. If the limit is reached before completion, the attempt is stopped and recorded as DNF.

26. What is a cutoff, and how is it different from a time limit?

    A cutoff is a qualifying target that must be achieved in the first one or two attempts to receive the remaining attempts in the round. A time limit is the final maximum time allowed for each permitted attempt.

27. What happens if the competitor does not meet the cutoff?

    The initial attempts remain official results, but the competitor does not receive the remaining attempts in that round.

28. Must competitors know all the rules for every selected event?

    Competitors are expected to understand the basic rules and procedure for each event they enter. A competitor tutorial can help, but it does not replace the competitor’s responsibility to know the rules.

29. How fast must someone solve for competing to be worthwhile?

    There is no universal required speed. The practical requirement is being able to finish within the time limit announced for that competition.

30. Can someone attend only for the experience, even if their result may be one of the slowest?

    Yes. A first competition is a place to gain experience, learn the procedure and meet other cubers, not only to achieve a high ranking.

Puzzles and other equipment

31. Must competitors bring their own puzzles?

    Yes. Competitors are responsible for providing a suitable puzzle for each event. A puzzle may be privately borrowed, but it must be ready when the competitor is called.

32. Can a normal non-magnetic cube be used?

    Yes. Magnets are not required.

33. Can a Bluetooth smart cube be used?

    No. Puzzles with electronic components such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, sensors, motors or lights are not permitted, even when the electronics are switched off.

34. Are stickerless cubes allowed?

    Yes. Normal mass-produced stickerless puzzles with coloured plastic are permitted if they satisfy the other puzzle rules.

35. Can a cube have a logo on its centre piece?

    Generally yes. The logo must be on a permitted centre piece and must not provide an advantage. Logos are prohibited in some blindfolded events.

36. What if the puzzle has a scratch, chip or damaged sticker?

    Reasonable wear is allowed if it does not make a particular piece distinguishable. If damage identifies one piece among similar pieces, the puzzle may be rejected. Ask the Delegate and bring a spare if there is any doubt.

37. Can a judge refuse a specific puzzle?

    A judge may identify a concern and request inspection, but the WCA Delegate makes the final decision. A non-permitted puzzle must be replaced.

38. Must a competitor bring a spare puzzle?

    It is not required, but it is strongly recommended in case the main puzzle breaks, is lost or is not approved.

39. What happens if the puzzle breaks or a piece pops during an attempt?

    The competitor may repair the puzzle and continue or stop the attempt. A puzzle defect does not automatically justify an extra attempt. The final state is assessed under the puzzle-defect regulations.

40. Must competitors bring their own timer and mat?

    No. Official timers and mats are supplied by the organisers. Competitors bring their own puzzles.

Arrival and schedule

41. What time should a competitor arrive?

    Arrive early enough for check-in, any first-timer tutorial and the first entered event. Check the event page and schedule for the recommended arrival time.

42. Is venue registration or check-in required?

    It depends on the competition. Many events require check-in, collection of a name badge or verification of new-competitor information.

43. Which documents should be brought?

    A new competitor should bring official identification, or an acceptable clear image of it, so the Delegate can verify the name, date of birth and citizenship. Check the competition page for any additional requirements.

44. Does a child need a passport or other identification?

    At a first competition, the Delegate should verify a new competitor’s name, date of birth and citizenship. Bring a passport, identity document, birth certificate or an acceptable image, according to the organisers’ instructions.

45. What happens if the competitor is late?

    A competitor who is not present and ready when called may be disqualified from the event. The Delegate may allow a later attempt in some circumstances, but this should not be relied upon.

46. How does a competitor find their assigned group?

    Organisers publish groups before the competition or announce them at the venue. Check the competition page, email, group lists, name badge and venue announcements.

47. Where are groups and schedules published?

    The main schedule is on the WCA competition page. Detailed groups may appear on a separate website, in an email, on venue notices or on the competitor’s badge.

48. Can the schedule change during the competition?

    Yes. Minor delays or changes may occur. Competitors should follow announcements. The format, cutoff and time limit must be announced before the round starts.

49. Must a competitor remain at the venue all day?

    Not necessarily. They must be present for their events, any later rounds they qualify for and any assigned judging or other duties.

50. Can a competitor leave after finishing their events?

    Usually yes, but first confirm that they have not advanced to another round and have no assigned judging, scrambling or other responsibility.

How an attempt works

51. How does a competitor know when they are being called?

    Organisers or volunteers call the competitor’s name, number, group or row. Competitors should listen to announcements and remain in the assigned area.

52. Where should the puzzle be submitted before competing?

    Usually at a marked puzzle-submission table or scrambling station, solved and accompanied by the scorecard or competitor identification.

53. Who scrambles the puzzle?

    An authorised scrambler applies an officially generated scramble sequence.

54. May the competitor watch their puzzle being scrambled?

    No. From the time scrambling starts until inspection begins, the competitor must not see the puzzle or scramble sequence.

55. How can the competitor know that the correct puzzle was returned?

    Organisers use scorecards, trays, labels or numbering systems. If the competitor is unsure, they must tell the judge before inspection begins.

56. What should a competitor do after sitting at the solving station?

    Wait for the judge’s instructions, make sure the timer is ready and respond when the judge asks “READY?”. Do not touch the cover or view the puzzle before the judge uncovers it.

57. When may the puzzle cover be removed?

    The judge removes it after the competitor confirms readiness. The competitor must not remove the cover.

58. How much inspection time is allowed?

    Strictly less than 15 seconds to inspect and start the solve. Starting at exactly 15.00 seconds receives +2; starting at exactly 17.00 seconds or later is DNF.

59. What happens if the solve is started too early or too late?

    There is no minimum inspection time, but the competitor must wait for the judge to uncover the puzzle and must start the timer correctly. Touching the puzzle while starting gives +2. Starting after 15 seconds gives +2; starting after 17 seconds gives DNF.

60. What should the competitor do after stopping the timer?

    Fully release the puzzle, stop the timer with both hands, do not touch the puzzle and do not reset the timer. Check the written result and sign the scorecard.

Mistakes, penalties and disputes

61. Which mistakes can result in a two-second penalty?

    Examples include starting between 15 and 17 seconds of inspection, placing the puzzle incorrectly on the mat, touching it while starting, stopping the timer incorrectly, stopping with one hand, touching the puzzle after stopping without making a move, and finishing one move away from solved. This is not an exhaustive list.

62. When is a result recorded as DNF?

    Examples include an unsolved puzzle, being more than one move from solved, exceeding the time limit, making a move after stopping, using an illegal puzzle, receiving prohibited assistance or violating another rule whose penalty is disqualification of the attempt.

63. What happens if a layer is slightly misaligned after the timer stops?

    If it is within the permitted alignment limit, there is no penalty. If exactly one move is required, the result receives +2. If more than one move is required, it is DNF.

64. Can the puzzle be adjusted after the timer has stopped?

    No. Making a move after stopping gives DNF. Touching without making a move normally gives +2, although a judge may remove the penalty for an immediate brief touch that did not affect the puzzle.

65. What should happen if the timer did not start or stopped incorrectly?

    Do not reset it. Inform the judge and WCA Delegate immediately. An extra attempt may be granted for equipment malfunction, but the competitor is generally responsible for starting and stopping the timer correctly.

66. What if the judge distracted the competitor or gave an incorrect command?

    Appeal immediately to the judge and WCA Delegate, preferably while the incident is occurring and before the attempt is finished. The Delegate may grant an extra attempt, but it is not guaranteed.

67. Can a competitor request an extra attempt?

    Yes, when an incident such as equipment failure, incorrect procedure or serious interference affected the attempt. The request should be made immediately. A defect in the competitor’s own puzzle does not by itself justify an extra attempt.

68. Who should be contacted if the competitor disagrees with the judge?

    Ask for the WCA Delegate before signing the result and before anyone moves or adjusts the puzzle. The Delegate makes the final ruling at the competition.

69. Can a parent argue with the judge on behalf of a child?

    A parent may help the child explain the issue, especially outside the attempt, but the dispute should be addressed calmly to the WCA Delegate. During inspection and solving, the competitor may communicate only with the judge or Delegate.

70. What if the competitor does not understand the judge’s language well?

    Tell the organisers in advance and request an appropriate judge or agreed language assistance. Translation must not provide solving assistance.

Questions about a child competitor

71. Can a parent stand next to the child during an attempt?

    Normally not beside the solving table. Spectators must remain at least 1.5 metres from active stations. If the child has a special need, request an accommodation from the Delegate in advance.

72. What if the child is afraid to compete alone?

    Attend the first-timer tutorial and practise the procedure at home. Tell the organisers beforehand so they can provide clear instructions and, where possible, an experienced and patient judge.

73. Can the child decline an attempt if frightened or unwell?

    Yes. If the attempt has not started, it may be recorded as DNS. If it has started and is abandoned, it will normally be DNF. The child’s health comes first.

74. What happens if the child forgets an algorithm during the solve?

    The child may continue trying or stop. Nobody may give an algorithm or solving assistance during the official attempt.

75. Will other competitors laugh at a slow result?

    The speedcubing community is generally welcoming and beginners are common. Any inappropriate conduct should be reported to the organisers or Delegate.

76. May the competitor speak to the judge during the attempt?

    They may communicate with the judge or Delegate about a procedure or problem, but may not request or receive assistance with solving.

77. Can the child use headphones before competing to relax?

    They may use them outside the attempt if venue rules allow. Electronic headphones and earbuds must not be used during inspection or the official attempt, even when switched off.

78. Can the child practise between attempts?

    Usually yes, in a designated practice area. They should not practise at the official station, in a waiting area where it is prohibited, or in a way that distracts others.

79. Where should a backpack, phone and spare cubes be left?

    In the competitor seating area, with the parent or wherever the organisers direct. Valuables should not be left unattended or placed on the official solving table.

80. What if the child loses a cube or confuses it with someone else’s?

    Tell the organisers, Delegate or lost-property desk immediately. Do not use a puzzle of uncertain ownership until the issue is resolved.

Questions for parents and accompanying adults

81. Must a parent remain at the competition with the child?

    WCA Regulations do not universally require a parent to remain all day, but local competition or venue rules may require adult supervision. Organisers are not a childcare service, so a responsible adult should remain available.

82. Can the child attend with another adult instead of a parent?

    Usually yes, with parental consent and subject to local rules. Organisers may request the parent’s contact details or written authorisation for the accompanying adult.

83. Is written parental consent required?

    The WCA requires consent from a parent or guardian for competitors under 18, but does not prescribe one universal form. Organisers may require written or electronic consent.

84. Who is responsible for the child between events?

    The parent, guardian or another agreed responsible adult. Organisers and Delegates run the competition but do not automatically supervise each child individually.

85. May a parent enter the competition area?

    Normally the parent should remain in the spectator area at least 1.5 metres from active stations. Closer access requires organiser permission or an approved accommodation.

86. May a parent photograph or film the child during an attempt?

    Usually yes from the spectator area, without flash, obstruction or distraction. Scramble sequences must not be recorded, and venue rules and other people’s privacy must be respected.

87. Can food and drink be brought into the venue?

    This depends on venue rules. Food and drink should not endanger the equipment or interfere with competitors.

88. Is there a lunch break, and will the child have enough time to eat?

    Check the published schedule. Bring food when none is provided and plan around the child’s groups and duties so that no call is missed.

89. What if the child has an allergy, medical condition or special need?

    Contact the organisers and Delegate at least two weeks in advance when an accommodation is needed. Explain the required support, medication and emergency plan.

90. Who should be contacted if the child is lost, distressed or unwell?

    Contact the nearest organiser, staff member, WCA Delegate or first-aid person. For a serious emergency, contact venue security or local emergency services immediately.

Spectators, volunteers and judges

91. Can someone attend as a spectator even if no family member is competing?

    Often yes, but this depends on venue capacity and the competition’s rules. Some events limit spectators or admit only registered guests.

92. Must spectators register or buy a ticket in advance?

    It depends on the event. Many competitions are free and require no spectator registration, while others require a ticket, guest registration or accompaniment by a competitor.

93. Where may spectators stand during attempts?

    In the designated spectator area, at least 1.5 metres from active solving stations and outside the scrambling area.

94. May spectators applaud and support a competitor?

    Yes, when it does not disturb other active attempts. Follow organiser instructions and wait for an appropriate moment.

95. May spectators talk near tables where official attempts are taking place?

    Conversation must be quiet and kept away from competitors who are actively solving.

96. Can a newcomer help as a volunteer?

    Yes. Organisers often train newcomers for simple roles. Ask for instructions before beginning.

97. What tasks do volunteers normally perform?

    They may judge, carry puzzles, deliver scorecards, assist with check-in, set up the venue or help with results. Scrambling should be done only after appropriate training.

98. Can someone judge without a WCA ID or previous competition experience?

    Yes, if they understand the procedure and the organisers or Delegate consider them ready. A WCA ID and previous official results are not formal requirements for judging.

99. Who will explain judging rules before a newcomer’s first assignment?

    The organisers, WCA Delegate or an experienced judge. Many competitions provide a short tutorial or demonstration.

100. Must competitors help as judges, scramblers or runners after their group?

     Competitors must be available to judge and scramble when required. They may be excused only for a legitimate reason at the Delegate’s discretion. Runner duties depend on the local organisation of the competition.