How do grading and upgrading points work, and how does a horse move up a level?

Question

Accepted Answer

A horse or pony must be registered with EA, and the rider must hold a Competitor Licence / Dressage Performance Card, to acquire upgrading points. Points are earned only at levels above the horse's current grading, in Official Competitive competitions from Elementary level up, when you score 61% or more. Points depend on percentage only, not placing. Points: 61% to 62.999% = 1; 63% to 64.999% = 2; 65% to 66.999% = 3; 67% to 68.999% = 4; 69% to 70.999% = 5; 71% to 72.999% = 6; 73% and over = 7. A horse or pony that gains 40 upgrading points at levels above its grading is upgraded to the next level. To upgrade from Advanced to FEI, at least 30 points are needed. Grading is assessed at the closing date of entries, and a rider competing a horse below its graded level commits an offence under the EA Disciplinary By-Law. Freestyle, Young Horse and Participation competitions do not award upgrading points. Source: EA National Dressage Rules 1 January 2026, rules 4.8, 4.8.3.2, 4.9 and 4.9.1.