Age, Height and other Physical Requirements for Models

The myth says that models need to be tall and thin - and it's true for all mainstream types of modelling, such as fashion and catwalk. For other types of modelling, it depends on what you are aiming at.

For the purpose of this page, I have assumed that you are going for gold, that is fashion modelling and signed up with one of the top agencies.

The following information is for female models (*):
- Age between 13 and 24
- Height (girls 17 and younger): minimum 168 cm (5'6")
- Height (girls 18 and older): minimum 170 cm (5'8")
- Anyone under the age of 18 needs parental consent

(*) Information obtained from Elite Model Management; correct at the time of writing.

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For boys, add about 15 cm (6") in height and a year or two in starting age. Boys mature later than girls.

For all types of modelling (boys and girls), you need a healthy, fit, well-toned, well looked after body, flawless skin, and healthy hair and nails.

In the past, weight requirements were simple: thin, very thin. In 2006, the organisers of the 2006 Madrid Fashion Week decided to ban skinny, size zero models. This far reaching and, at the time, revolutionary decision means that weight has become a rather more difficult question: many agencies do not openly state their requirements.

For the 2006 Madrid Fashion Week, a minimum BMI of 18 was imposed in an effort to promote a more healthy image and attitude.

What is BMI and how to calculate it

Size zero models

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