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It comes as no surprise that the application process to become a contestant on The Bachelor is intense. However, those of us who haven’t applied for the show never knew just how intense it really is — until now. Los Angeles Times writer Amy Kaufman’s book, published on March 6, 2018, is revealing the crazy truth about what it takes to land a spot on the show.

Bachelor Nation: Inside the World of America’s Favorite Guilty Pleasure definitely doesn’t hold back. Kaufman gives an in-depth look into the application process, including the one shockingly common reason why many people don’t get cast on The Bachelor.

1. You need to look and act the part

Contestants on 'The Bachelor' sitting together.
This is a huge factor. | ABC

Potential contestants need to go through a serious application process to even be considered. Along with filling out extensive paperwork, applicants submit anywhere between five and 15 photos of themselves. They must also submit a “well-lit” video, dressed “as if going to a nice dinner,” according to the New York Post. Creativity is definitely required here, as they’re asked to walk around their home, show off their pets, and describe their ultimate fantasy date.

If producers think you look, act, and dress the part, they’ll bring you on an all-expenses paid trip to Los Angeles for an audition weekend.

Next: Here’s how they really get to know you.