The American version of the Eurovision Song Contest will, as currently planned, consist of several rounds. In a series of 5 to 10 live qualifying rounds, representatives from different states will compete for a spot in the semi-finals. The states that make it to the Grand Final then compete for the ultimate win.

“The unique legacy of the Eurovision Song Contest goes back 65 years and its worldwide popularity is still growing. It is time for America to experience this spectacle through this sister competition, the American Song Contest,” said Martin Österdahl, Executive Supervisor of the Eurovision Song Contest. American Song Contest producer Anders Lenhoff promises that the musical spectacle "will be different from anything that has been seen on American television before".

In the run-up to the competition, The American Song Contest Academy is being put together: a group consisting of American music professionals from all genres and backgrounds. The Academy members will assemble juries that, along with the regional audience, will gather top talent to represent the 50 states.