Breaking down the new CASI Level 3

The most significant change to the CASI programming for the upcoming season is to the Level 3 course, moving to a modular format, similar to our Level 4. Detailed in this blog post are the key changes to the course format, prerequisites and exam structure. Here’s Geneviève Pilotto, Director of Education & Programs, taking you through the update!

The following is a detailed breakdown of the video and everything you’ll need to know as you begin or continue your journey towards being a certified CASI Level 3 Instructor!

Program Structure

  • 3 Training Modules: One per component (Riding, Teaching, Instructor Training). Each is 2 days.
  • Flexible Pathway: Modules can be taken in any order. Start with any of the 3 components.
  • Exams:
    • 1-day Riding Exam
    • 1-day Teaching Exam
    • No separate exam for Instructor Training (evaluation is built into the 2-day module)
      • Instructor Training retests must sign up for the 2-day module but only pay retest pricing.

Prerequisites

  • Level 2: Required for all modules
  • Park 1: Required to attend Riding and Teaching modules
  • Freestyle (Park) Evaluation: Now part of the Riding exam; focuses on confident Park 1-level skills (refinement level)

Getting Started with Level 3?

  • Register via CASI Course Schedule
  • Start with any module—Teaching, Riding, or Instructor Training
  • Consider doing IT Module + Park 1 to begin
  • International Candidates: register through an International Course Provider (ICP)

Previously Completed the Level 3 Course?

  • If you completed the Level 3 course during the 2024-25 season or before, you’re eligible for exams of any component.
  • Riding & Teaching Exams: Register for each exam day separately
  • Instructor Training: Register for the IT Module, even if testing for the first time (evaluation is included)

Need More Training?

  • You can re-register for any module if more prep is needed
  • Note: The full 2-day IT Module is mandatory for all—first-time, retest, or evaluation

Course Schedules

  • Canada: Schedule now available
  • International (Japan & China): Check ICP schedules
  • All ICP-run programs this season include full Level 3 modules + IT evaluation

Exam Availability

  • Canada: Riding and Teaching exams available in 2025–26
  • International: Aiming for 2026–27 return (possibly sooner at some locations, registration through CASI website)
    • CASI will announce updates when finalized