Judging criteria
Judging criteria
Judging at AAQC is conducted by qualified scholars and recognised huffadh. The criteria below reflect both the technical and spiritual dimensions of Qur'anic recitation — precision in memorisation and presence in delivery.
The judging approach
Judges at AAQC do not simply mark right or wrong. Their role is to assess the full quality of a recitation — from the accuracy of what is memorised, to the manner in which it is delivered.
Judging is conducted with a commitment to fairness, consistency and the adab befitting the Qur'an. All scores are final once the judging panel has deliberated.
What you will be assessed on
Accuracy of memorisation
Participants must demonstrate that the selected portion has been firmly and correctly memorised, including accurate recitation and sequence of verses.
Continuity and command
Recitation should flow confidently without prompting, correction or external assistance during the session.
Application of tajwīd
Judges assess pronunciation, articulation, madd, waqf and the correct implementation of tajwīd rules throughout recitation.
Fluency and delivery
Recitation should maintain calm rhythm, controlled pace and the beauty expected in Qur'anic recitation.
Composure and adab
Participants are expected to demonstrate respectful conduct, attentiveness and composure throughout the judging process.
How the judging session works
Before you begin
Participants are called by name and directed to the recitation area. Please arrive early and be ready before your allocated session.
During the recitation
Judges may ask you to begin, stop or continue from different locations within your selected portion without notice.
After the recitation
Scores are reviewed privately by the panel and announced at the designated stage of the competition.
A note on integrity
AAQC holds the integrity of the competition to the highest standard. Any attempt to deceive — whether during registration or recitation — may result in immediate disqualification.
Judges' decisions are final. Reviews are only considered in cases of clear procedural error.
Common questions
Do I need to prepare specific verses?
Participants may be asked to recite from anywhere within their registered portion to reflect genuine memorisation.
How will I know my score?
Scores are not shared live. Results are announced at the relevant stage of the competition.
Can a judging decision be reviewed?
Reviews are only considered in cases of clear procedural error, not disagreement with scores.
Will my recitation be recorded?
Yes. Recitations may be recorded for judging, documentation and promotional purposes.
Qualified scholars and recognised huffadh
Judging panels are composed of qualified huffadh and scholars with recognised ijāzah in recitation, ensuring integrity and excellence throughout the competition.
Meet the judging panel