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PSIC v CSIA: Becoming Certified In Canada
Guide Summary
The Professional Ski Instructors of Canada is a new governing body established in Canada in 2023. The PSIC trains and certifies ski instructors in Canada, aligning itself with international standards set by the ISIA. Although not yet a member of the ISIA. The CSIA has been the main governing body in Canada for over 85 years and boasts a membership of over 20,000. For the first time in Canada, those wanting to become certified as ski instructors now have a choice: to become certified as PSIC or CSIA.
Becoming Certified In Canada
When deciding to become a ski instructor, something not to be overlooked is the association you wish to certify with. In Canada, for the last 85 years, the Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance has been the only governing body to train and certify instructors, meaning the decision on which association to certify with was pretty straightforward. But as of 2023, there is a new kid on the block: the Professional Ski Instructors of Canada.
Your options are, of course, not limited to Canada. You could become certified under several national associations, including Austria, Australia, New Zealand and British; check out our certifications page for more information on these governing bodies.
What Is The PSIC?
“At the PSIC, we are redefining ski instruction with a modern, science-based approach to training, education, and certification. Our deep partnership with ski schools drives a curriculum that responds directly to the needs of today’s ski industry—prioritizing guest experience, technical excellence, and instructor development. Join a supportive community of professionals who are committed to elevating the mountain experience for all.”
The PSIC was founded in 2023, led by industry professionals, many of whom were closely associated with the CSIA. Looking to develop new ideas, they offer a new innovative approach to certifying ski instructors, adding value to the industry. The PSIC is, like the CSIA, working with a traditional four-level system, with those becoming fully certified recognised as the best in the industry with expert skiing and teaching skills. The PSIC trains and certifies ski instructors in Canada and worldwide with courses being delivered in Italy, Switzerland, France, Austria, New Zealand, and Japan. These courses are offered in partnership with the PSIE (Professional Ski Instructors of Europe).
PSIC Level 1 Certification
The PSIC delivers an accessible Level 1 course and exam designed to provide skiers with an insight into the world of ski teaching and certify them to teach beginner skiers, with a focus on teaching children. In order to complete the course you must be 14 years or older and undertake an E-Learning module and on-snow practical assessment lasting three days. Candidates should be competent parallel skiers on green and blue terrain. After success completion of the level 1 course, candidates can begin teaching at an entry level.
What Is The CSIA?
The Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance is a non-profit organisation and the main governing body to train and certify future and current ski instructors across Canada. Internationally recognised as one of the best in the world, they have been around since 1938 and have over 20,000 members.
The pathway
Level 2 – Three-day teach and ski modules are a prerequisite before taking the 2-day exams. The Level 2 standard develops deeper understanding of ski technique and demonstrations allowing instructors to teach more intermediate skiers in more situational environments.
Level 3 – A Level 3 instructor is able to demonstrate and ski to an advanced level. The Level 3 exam is recognised as quite a step up in skill level, demanding more advanced teaching and skiing skills from candidates.
Level 4 – The highest level of certification, qualifying instructors to teach at the expert level and train instructors. The Level 4 is internationally recognised as the highest level of certification in ski teaching.
International Recognition With ISIA
The CSIA has time and resources behind it. With over 20,000 members and a rich history, the CSIA has solid foundations and is a member of the ISIA. Their methods and philosophies are structured, tested and well-rehearsed, meaning the quality of their courses are kept at the highest level. Being members of the ISIA, this gives instructors certified under the CSIA the opportunity to obtain their ISIA stamp and become internationally recognised.
The CSIA’s longevity and membership signal it’s not going anywhere, and with ISIA membership, it is supported and respected by international associations worldwide—a safe bet for an instructor looking to work overseas and obtain ISIA status.
After two successful seasons, the PSIC is gaining recognition worldwide. As it now offers courses worldwide, it is clear that the PSIC will begin to cement its place internationally. More instructors are certifying with the PSIC and the PSIE, which will only enhance its reputation internationally.
Taking A Course With The CSIA
At this stage, the Winter Sports Company provides instructor training courses for those wanting to certify under the CSIA. We work closely with Sun Peaks, Revelstoke and Panorama Mountain delivering Level 1, 2 and 3 internships and training courses. 6 Week Advanced CSIA Level 2 Ski Instructor Course
FAQs
A typical salary ranges from $17-19 as a Level 1 ski Instructor to $19-22 as a Level 2. A level 3 instructor can start to make a good living with more hours and a higher wage of $23-28, depending on the resort. Private lessons and tips will help increase your take-home pay. When you reach fully certified Level 4 standard, you can maximise your earning potential and hours and become a sought-after commodity. This level will significantly increase your employability and offer many other gateways to earn a considerably well-paid salary.
If you are a capable skier, simply attending a three- or 5-day course and examination will entitle you to become a level 1 ski instructor upon successful completion. If you still need to gain sufficient skills, then a standard timeframe to train to this level can be around 3-4 weeks for Level 1 and another 5-7 weeks for Level 2. The Level 2 exams are completed within six days after the preparation and training.
Gaining your basic ski instructor certification, with the correct existing skills, costs as little as $480 or £350. However, achieving those skills, should you need training, can cost considerably more as accommodation, lift passes, transportation, and food must be factored in whilst training and completing your exams. These costs can be in the region of £3500-£8500 for your Level 1 or Level 2, depending on the quality and duration of the programme.
With most governing bodies within the ISIA (International Ski Instructors Association) which has 38 nations conforming to an international standard, the accepted format of 4 Levels of skiing consists of the following. Level 1 instructor course teaches a basic introduction to skiing and assumes the instructor can parrallel ski. An introduction to children is often introduced at this level. Level 2 concentrates on more advanced techniques and allows you to instruct intermediate skiers. Level 3 Is a much higher certificate, centering around advanced technique on challenging terrain in all conditions. . Finally most governing bodies except the New Zealand system have a Level 4 which is the final level allowing the instructor to teach any level of skier.
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