What do I need to keep my certification as an Xcel or Level 1-5 judge each year?

Xcel Bronze/Silver/Gold

• Take an Xcel judging course and pass the exam (minimum 70%) every four years or at the start of a new code.
• Judge at least 50 routines from 3 different competitions.
• Complete at least 5 CPE hours, at least 1 of them course hours.
• Complete at least 2 observation hours, unless you qualify for an exemption.
• Be assessed at least once in a quad (4 years).

Levels 1-3: the same, with a compulsory judging course and exam (minimum 70%) every four years or at the start of a new code, and the 50 routines can be any level from 1-3.

Levels 4-5: the same, with a Level 4/5 course and exam (minimum 70%), and a minimum of 30 of the 50 routines must be Levels 4-5.

An Xcel or compulsory judge is expected to be a panel member, submit a full score, justify execution deductions if the Apparatus Head Judge asks, and use judging scripting for all routines.

Source: Alberta Gymnastics Women's Judges Handbook 2025-2026.