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BBC Up And Coming - Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the most common questions asked about BBC Up and Coming

What is BBC Up and Coming?

BBC Up and Coming gives aspiring presenters the chance to send their demo to BBC radio stations including BBC Radio 1, Radio 1 Dance, Radio 1 Anthems, and Asian Network.
Demos sent via the Up and Coming Uploader will arrive in the inbox of the radio station's panel. If they like what they hear, they'll get back to you.

How long should my demo be?

No longer than 10 minutes, and it should showcase your personality, creativity and brilliance. We recommend you upload your demo as an mp3 file.

Do I need previous experience as a radio DJ?

Please check the terms and conditions for the campaign you are applying for.

What will make my demo stand out?

We want to know what makes you unique. We are looking for a range of personalities and a mixture of entertainment and personality presenters alongside music experts. Read more tips here.

What should I put in this field of the uploader: “Tell us who you are, what makes you tick?”

This is a biography section where you can list your passions, previous radio experience, the music you love and why you’d love to host your own show.

If I’m under 18, can I submit a demo?

You need to be over the age of 18 and signed in to a BBC account to submit a demo. Please see the full Terms and Conditions for more information.

Is there a limit to how many demos I can upload?

You are limited to uploading one demo per month.

What happens once someone has listened to my demo?

Due to the high volume of expected demos, we can’t guarantee communication on the basis of a listen. However, if the panel likes what they hear, someone will be in touch.

Can I get feedback on my demo?

Unfortunately, due to the volume of demos received, we cannot provide individual feedback.

What is the Uploader?

The Uploader is a tool that allows you to upload demos. A panel will be able to access your demo once it has been submitted.

How can I use the Uploader?

In order to upload a demo, you need to do the following:

1. Sign In with or Register for a BBC ID account
2. Click on Register, to create your BBC Up and Coming Profile
3. Fill out all of the fields
4. Upload your demo(s)

Once your Profile has been set up, you won't need to do it again. You can update your Profile at any time and your Profile is where all of the information regarding your uploaded submissions are kept.

How long will my demo be available to listen to?

The BBC will retain your Uploader information, including any uploaded demos, for 7 years. This time period does not apply if you have requested the deletion of your Profile. You can choose to delete your Uploader Profile at any time. After deletion you will not be able to access your Profile or upload any more demos to it. You can delete your Profile from within the Uploader; use the button marked 'Delete' in the Profile Overview. You will be prompted to confirm your wish to delete your Profile.

My question isn’t covered here. Who can I contact?

If you are experiencing any errors with the Uploader, your Profile, or if you have follow-up questions not covered in the FAQ page, please contact presentersearch [at] bbc [dot] co [dot] uk. When you write to this address you will first receive an auto-reply that reflects the FAQs and a few other common questions. Please note, if your issue is not covered in this auto-reply we will do our best to respond to you. Due to the large volume of emails that come in this may not be immediately. Please include your presenter/profile name and screenshots where relevant. It is also useful to email us from the email address associated with your account.