The number of entries allotted to each ISU member federation is determined by their skaters' placements at the previous season's World Junior Figure Skating Championships in each respective discipline.

For the 2008–09 season, in singles, the five best placed member nations at the 2008 World Junior Figure Skating Championships were allowed to enter two skaters in all eight events.

Member nations who did not qualify for the free skate but placed 25th through 30th in the short program were allowed to enter one skater in six of the events.

Member nations who placed in the top five at the 2008 World Junior Championships were allowed to enter a second dance team.

The host country was allowed to enter up to three skaters/teams in singles and dance in their event, and there was no limit to the number of pairs teams.