Challenge the Standard!

You don't necessarily have to get put back a grade.  If you don't have a prerequisite level of certification needed for the course you're contemplating, you can "skip" a year (or two) by "challenging" the standard or standards you don't have certifications for.

This involves taking the regular written test for the standard/s you're challenging, and also proving your practical skill level on the water.  Time needed, and our fees, vary based on which standards you're challenging, how many at one time, etc.  Call or e-mail us to enquire.

All ASA and US Sailing standards except Basic Keelboat and Coastal Navigation have prerequisites.  It's simple: you need any and all certifications below the level you wish to proceed with.

Challenging the standards can be a cost effective means of proceeding with your sailing education and training, but it's not for everyone.  Many people who have sailed for years are better off taking a good Basic Keelboat course to round out their knowledge and skills.  (Even certified sailors who haven't done it for awhile are sometimes better off taking a refresher course, or even a full-fledged basic course, prior to advancing.)  Talk with us first, and we'll help you figure out which route's best for you.

And if you do have to go "back a grade" first, don't worry: we won't tell your classmates about it!