What are the BSA technical official grades, and how do I qualify as an umpire?
Rule- South Africa
- Badminton South Africa
- BWF Laws of Badminton 2027
- BSA Technical Officials
- Umpires
- Service judges
- All ages
- 2027
- Officials
Badminton South Africa's technical officials committee (BSATO) sets these grades in its commissions, in effect from 1 July 2026. Every grade needs an active BSA number and affiliation, in good standing, to a province or corporate.
| Grade | Entry | Course | Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|
| BSA Line Judge | — | Simplified Laws of Badminton, line judge aspects | Practical at the course |
| Candidate Umpire (under 16) | — | Simplified Laws | Practical at a tournament |
| BSA Accredited Umpire | 16 or older | BSATO-approved Laws course and Instructions to Technical Officials | Theory exam 70% plus practical at a BSA sanctioned tournament |
| BSA Certificated Umpire | Accredited Umpire for 3+ years and active | Advanced Laws course | Theory exam 80% plus advanced practical by a trainer and two assessors at the SA U19, SA Open and Melvill Cup or SA Internationals |
| BSA Accredited Referee | Accredited Umpire for 2+ years and active | BSATO Referee course | Practical at a BSA sanctioned tournament |
Updated 22 Oct 2026