Seniors are already dreading that spring semester feeling of impending graduation, and preparations for Penn State’s annual spring music festival have been long underway. The organization opened applications this week for Battle of the Bands, where groups can compete for a chance to open the festival in April.

The requirements are pretty straightforward: You must have a musical group of which at least one member is a Penn State student, either undergraduate or graduate. Bands must have original music (read: not just covers) to be considered and must submit samples as part of the application.

Eight bands will be chosen from the applicant pool to participate in the actual Battle of the Bands, and the winner will get to perform first at Movin’ On 2018 and open for multiple (not yet announced) big-name acts. Last year’s winning act, Zach Wade & The Good Grief, preluded Clean Bandit and Two Door Cinema Club, while the 2016 champ, Cecil Blutcher, got to open the show for Walk The Moon and Nelly.

Applications are due by 5 p.m. Sunday, February 4. Those applying should complete this application and send samples as well as any media including press kits, videos, interviews, or articles to [email protected]. Once the top eight groups are selected, each will compete in the Battle of the Bands at 5 p.m. March 21 in Alumni Hall at the HUB.