According to the center’s website (http://cvqc.org), the preliminary testing will take place the week before on Saturday March 13 and all contestants must receive an 80% mark to qualify as a finalist.

The competition will be held in six main categories as well as two categories for children of under six and under four years of age.

In each category the contestants will recite three Surahs (chapters) of the holy Quran that will be selected by the judge. The grades are from 100 points and will be determined based on the quality of the memorization (75 points), the proper pronunciation of the letters and words 15 points, and the Tarteel (rhythm), presentation and ability to control the voice (10 points).

The Judging will be done by qualified judges including Al-Sheikh Al-Hafidh Haroon Baqai.

The contest is annually held by the Islamic Center of Virginia and this year’s edition will be the fifth. Valuable prizes will be awarded to winners in different categories.