Alpine Level 3

Overview and Prerequisites

Certified Level 3 instructors must ski all green, blue, and black terrain (double black where available) in most conditions. Alpine Certified Level 3 instructors are expected to teach adults and children through the Advanced Zone. According to the PSIA Alpine Technical Manual, “Skiers in this zone range from those who can handle the easiest groomed black runs to experts who can apply a variety of turn shapes to control speed on any type of terrain, in any snow condition.”

-The Level 3 assessment process is a four-part modular exam process consisting of a written test, a technical application/knowledge assessment module, a teaching/people skills assessment module, and a skiing skills assessment module.

Written Test

The Alpine Level 3 Written Test is now handled on the National PSIA website; click here to get started. After logging in using your National PSIA credentials, select Written Test from the top menu, then select your Division of membership (remember that if you are not a member of the Northern Intermountain Division, you will need permission from your primary Division to participate in our Certification process). You will then see the exams that you are eligible to take. Remember that written tests must be completed successfully at least 48 hours before any on-snow assessments.

Requirements

• You must be a Level 2 active certified instructor, in good standing.
• The Level 2 certification process must be completed prior to beginning the Level 3 certification process.
• Complete the Level 3 Written Test prior to taking either exam module.
• Complete at least one of the following (A prep clinic for each on-snow module is recommended but not required. Participation in an online orientation is required for each module assessment you are registered for or intend to take that you do not attend an on-snow prep clinic for.)
  • Technical Application/Knowledge assessment prep clinic prior to taking the technical assessment module*
  • Teaching/People Skills assessment prep clinic prior to taking the Teaching/People Skills assessment module*
  • Skiing Skills assessment prep clinic prior to taking the skiing skills assessment module*

*General education events may count towards prep requirements. In the event descriptions, look for “Qualifies as Assessment Prep Clinic or Continuing Education.” The description will also indicate which module the event is for.

It is recommended, but not required, that exam candidates complete the exam prep clinic within two seasons of the exam module. It is required that candidates take at least one on-snow prep clinic per year they intend to participate in an assessment.

Completion of at least one 300 level Skiing clinic and one 300 level Teaching/Technical or Movement Analysis clinic is also recommended.