What levels are there, and how do I move up?
Rule- Australia
- Equestrian Australia
- Dressage
- Ages 8+
- 2026
- Riders
- EA National Dressage Rules
EA levels and the number of current EA tests at each:
- Preparatory: 4 tests
- Preliminary: 3 tests
- Novice: 3 tests
- Elementary: 3 tests
- Medium: 3 tests
- Advanced: 3 tests
Above these are the FEI levels: Prix St Georges, Intermediate I, FEI Medium Tour (Intermediate A and B), Intermediate II, and Grand Prix (including Grand Prix Special and the Under 25 Grand Prix).
A combination can start in only 2 consecutive levels at a time. You move up by upgrading: a horse or pony that gains 40 upgrading points at levels above its current grading moves up to the next level (see the grading question). Participation competitions are limited to a maximum of Elementary level.
Source: EA National Dressage Rules 1 January 2026 (effective 1 January 2026), rules 4.8.1.2, 4.8.2, 4.8.3 and 4.9.
Added 24 Oct 2026