The private interview is a 10-minute press conference-style interview with a panel of judges and is worth 30% of the overall score. Contestants might be asked about controversial topics. One can discuss how the pageant title will help achieve one's academic and personal goals. One can also talk about what she brings to the organization and what makes her different from other winners. One can talk about what characteristics she thinks competition winners have and relate them to her own qualities.

Fitness showcases contestants' athleticism and energy and is worth 20% of the overall score. Contestants perform a high-energy routine with movement where judges evaluate contestants' overall first impression, dynamic presence, and whether they radiate health, high energy, and confidence. The Miss America organization has shifted its focus away from physical appearance and toward health. The organization defines women's wellness as being based on optimal health, rather than physical appearance.

The Talent competition has several aspects, including a performing arts talent and a personal narrative option titled HERStory. This is worth 20% of the overall score. Contestants can perform a variety of acts, such as dance, music, opera, drama, magic, oratory, circus arts, and storytelling. The performance must be completed within 90 seconds, and the contestant must begin and end on stage. Judges consider stage presence, technical skill level, quality of talent, interpretive ability, and personality and skills.

The Evening Wear competition has evolved over time, and is 20% of the overall score. This phase of competition allows contestants to wear evening attire of their choice to express their self-confidence. The dress should be appropriate for the wearer's age and personality. Contestants will also showcase their poise, confidence, and grace on stage. This walk is typically much slower. The judges consider the contestant's overall look, stage presence, beauty, personality, appropriateness, and walking style.

The On-stage Question tests the ability to be a spokesperson for the Miss America Brand and is answered while wearing one's interview outfit. This is 10% of the overall score. Questions are written after private interviews, tailored specifically to contestants' community service initiatives. Contestants have 30 seconds to answer this question and are evaluated on passion, sense of empowerment, and extemporaneous response. Other criteria include poise, confidence, and comfort in speaking in front of an audience.