A ski instructor course is a big investment, so is it really worth the money? This guide breaks down the real costs, benefits, and opportunities of training with Winter Sports Company – from course fees and accommodation to future job prospects – to help you decide if it’s the right path for you.

A Ski Course v Ski Internship

Both ski internships and full instructor courses offer great value, but in very different ways.

Ski Internship

  • Lower upfront cost compared to a full course.
  • Includes guaranteed work placement, so you earn while you train.
  • Once work begins, you’ll be responsible for covering your own accommodation and meals – though wages usually balance these expenses.
  • Runs for a full season, ideal if you have several months free and want hands-on experience straight away.

Ski Instructor Course

  • Higher upfront cost but includes all accommodation, meals, and resort living expenses.
  • Structured training with more contact hours before your exams.
  • Opportunity to achieve Level 1 and Level 2 certifications within the same season.
  • No guaranteed job on completion, but you leave with qualifications and experience that open doors to paid work worldwide.
  • Flexible options like our 8-week fast track make it ideal for those with limited time.

Price Guide:

Ski Instructor Training Costs

A ski instructor course in Canada with the Winter Sports Company offers far more than a regular ski holiday. Instead of a week on the slopes, you’ll spend an entire season immersed in world-class ski instructor training, delivered by highly qualified Level 3 and Level 4 coaches. These are some of the most experienced professionals in the industry, and their training is designed specifically to prepare you for your ski instructor certification exams.

To put the value in perspective:

  • A full-day private ski lesson in Canada costs around $600.

  • Twelve days of training would total $7,200 (over £4,000).

  • That figure doesn’t even include accommodation, meals, or flights.

By choosing a Winter Sports Company ski instructor course, you’ll gain access to consistent, structured coaching from elite instructors at a fraction of the cost. Everything is included in one package, from world-class training to accommodation in resort. Making it the most affordable and effective way to earn your internationally recognised ski instructor qualifications while enjoying an unforgettable season abroad.

👉 Ready to become a ski instructor in Canada? Explore our ski instructor courses and start your journey today.

The Hybrid Internship

6 Week Advanced Level 3 Ski Instructor Course

 

Ski Season Accommodation

Accommodation in ski resorts is rarely cheap. While you might find a budget hostel for a short holiday, living in-resort for several weeks of instructor training requires a higher level of comfort and stability.

To give an idea of the costs:

  • 3 weeks accommodation (25 November – 16 December 2024) in the same lodge we use would cost around $4,853 CAD if booked directly.

  • That price covers only the room – no training, no lift pass, no meals.

By booking through Winter Sports Company, your accommodation, meals, and resort living costs are included in the course price, often working out to a significant saving. The longer the course, the greater the overall value:

  • 8-11 week courses provide far better per-week savings than short stays.

  • You’ll also benefit from living with fellow trainees, creating a supportive community atmosphere throughout the season.

11 Week Level 1 & 2 Ski Instructor Course

11-13 Week Level 1,2 & 3 Ski Instructor

Ski Season Lift Pass

A season lift pass at a major resort is a big expense on its own – often running into the thousands. With Winter Sports Company, your lift pass is already included in the course price, so you won’t face that additional cost.

What this means for you:

  • Full-season access: Ski and ride as much as you like, even beyond your training schedule.

  • Flexibility: If you extend your stay after your course, your pass remains valid for the whole season.

  • Extra perks: Season pass holders often receive discounts on food, drinks, retail, and other amenities in-resort. (Who doesn’t love a cheap après beer?)

It’s one more way WSC ensures you get maximum value from your time on the mountain.

Ski Instructor Exam Fees And Membership

To become a qualified ski instructor, you’ll need to pay exam fees as well as the annual membership fee to your governing body (e.g., CSIA in Canada, BASI in the UK). These costs are often overlooked when planning a season.

With Winter Sports Company:

  • Many of our courses include the cost of Level 1 and Level 2 exams, plus membership fees, in the course price.

  • This means no surprise expenses partway through your training.

  • We also handle the admin and logistics, so you can focus on your skiing instead of paperwork.

By bundling these essential fees into your package, we make the process simpler, less stressful, and better value overall.

Pre season training

 

Ski Employment Opportunities

The value of a ski instructor course doesn’t end with certification. Many graduates go on to secure their first jobs through connections made during training.

With Winter Sports Company, you’ll benefit from:

  • Global contacts: We work with ski schools across Canada, Europe, New Zealand, and Japan.

  • Built-in networking: You’ll train directly with senior ski school staff, making it easier to build relationships and stand out for future roles.

  • Support after graduation: We provide guidance and introductions to help you take the next step into paid employment.

  • Proven results: Past trainees have successfully turned their course into long-term careers – check out our case studies for real examples.

By combining top-level training with direct industry links, our courses give you a strong foundation for finding work at home or abroad.

Is A Ski Instructor Course Worth The Money?

We understand that seeing a price tag of several thousand pounds for a course or internship can feel daunting. But when you break it down, the value becomes clear:

  • Included essentials: Accommodation, meals, lift pass, and professional training are all bundled into the price.

  • Comparable costs: Booking all of these separately in a premium ski resort would often cost as much – if not more – than a course with us.

  • Flexible payments: Pay a deposit to secure your place, then spread the remaining balance in smaller instalments or as a lump sum before travel.

  • Peace of mind: Having savings set aside means you can relax and enjoy your season without worrying about unexpected expenses.

What truly sets Winter Sports Company apart is our personal service. From the moment you book until well after your course ends, we’re here to support you, not just as a provider, but as a partner in your journey.

Ready to take the next step? Contact us here to explore courses, payment options, and start planning your season on the slopes.

FAQs

How Do I Become A Ski Instructor In Canada?

To become a ski instructor in Canada you must successfully pass the Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance (CSIA) Level 1 instructor course as a minimum requirement. To increase your employability and work internationally, you need to obtain your CSIA Level 2 after further training. Similarly you can achieve a secondary pathway through the newly formed Professional Ski Instructors of Canada (PSIC). Both governing bodies’ qualifications and prior training programmes are available through the Winter Sports Company. Getting a ski instructor job in a resort will be achievable with these certifications and guidance.

How Quickly Can You Become A Ski Instructor?

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.

Can Anyone Be A Ski Instructor?

If above 15, given the right attitude and ability, anyone can be a ski instructor. Training through a provider like the Winter Sports Company can ensure a speedy journey to becoming a ski instructor. Embarking on an intense training programme is a surefire way of learning the correct methods and, more importantly, understanding one’s strengths and weaknesses so that the student can improve through learning, practising and teaching the techniques and skills associated with a ski instructor.

What Is A Ski Season CV?

A ski Season CV is specifically tailored to successfully finding a job within the ski industry. It needs to detail your previous snow experience, your existing qualifications, your previous work placements. This can be tweaked to provide information to future employers for roles both on or off the slopes including chalet host, ski instructor, hospitality, or lift operations to name a few. Some countries call it a resume, some a C.V so research the general format that employers are used to seeing and align your attributes to the role in question.

Emma Dyson

Author: Emma Dyson

Often referred to as the Admiral, she is the glue behind the scenes. Keeping the beating heart of the WSC pumping ensuring all operations are covered. With over 2 decades of experience with complex logistics and planning you will be glad that she is on your team. Found between the UK and Canada.

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