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Return to Equestrian Studies

International Education Pathways

IHSA covers 400+ U.S. colleges; the walk-on system requires no personal horse.

400+
IHSA covers U.S. universities
Walk-on service requires no horse.
$10K-$50K/year
NCAA Division I Scholarship
Elite Exclusive Channel
$29,800/year
Annual Membership Fee
Includes China Event + Asian Open
15-50K
Total spending in 5
Total Cost for American English Riding

Top 3 International Education Pathways

Choose the study abroad path that fits you best: one journey, three destinations.

IHSA Interscholastic Equestrian Association

The largest collegiate equestrian organization in the U.S., covering 400+ universities. Our walk-on program lets you join a team and compete without owning a horse. IHSA results can boost your college application.

Key Benefits:IHSA covers 400+ U.S. colleges

Eligibility Requirements

  • AQHA/APHA Level 1+ Certified
  • Experience competing in the China Open or Asian Open
  • TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+
  • GPA 3.0+

Target School

Southern Methodist University (SMU)Texas A&M UniversityUniversity of GeorgiaAuburn UniversityUniversity of Kentucky
Scholarship Amount:Combined Application Bonus + Partial Scholarship

NCAA Division I Equestrian Scholarships

The NCAA Division I offers full or partial scholarships to top equestrian athletes. A Level 5 World Championship rating is required for this elite pathway.

Key Benefits:NCAA Division I athletic recruitment only

Eligibility Requirements

  • APHA/AQHA World Championship Eligibility
  • Champion of National-Level or Higher Competitions
  • TOEFL 100+ / IELTS 7.5+
  • SAT 1400+

Target School

Southern Methodist University (SMU)Texas A&M UniversityUniversity of GeorgiaAuburn UniversityFresno State
Scholarship Amount:$10,000 - $50,000/year (full or partial)

Dual-campus credit transfer

Credits earned at our Kentucky campus transfer directly to partner high schools and universities in the U.S., saving 1–2 years in tuition. AIEA credits are recognized by institutions including Broward College and the University of Kentucky.

Key Benefits:Authentic cross-border educational resources

Eligibility Requirements

  • Complete AIEA Level 2+ course
  • Pass the Academic Ability Assessment
  • English proficiency meets academic requirements
  • Complete at least 1 years of Kentucky residency

Target School

Broward CollegeUniversity of KentuckyNetwork of Top U.S. Private High Schools
Scholarship Amount:Save 1-2 years of tuition

Preparation Timeline

Plan scientifically, progress step by step

1

Early Stage (ages 10-12)

Complete AQHA Level 1 Foundation Certification
Start systematic English learning (target TOEFL 60+)
Participate in the China tournament to gain competitive experience (2 times per year; points can be re-earned).
Maintain a GPA of 3.5+
2

Advanced Stage (Ages 13-15)

Earn AQHA/APHA Level 2 Certification
Participate in the Asian Open and achieve a ranking
TOEFL 80+ or IELTS 6.5+
Attend the AIEA Kentucky Summer Camp (2-4 weeks)
Start preparing for the SAT/ACT
3

Sprint Phase (16-18 years)

Earn Level 3-4 Advanced Certification (US State-Level or World Cup)
Achieved outstanding results in international competitions (AQHYA, APHA World Cup)
TOEFL 100+ / IELTS 7.5+, SAT 1400+
Complete your personal statement and recommendation letters
Try out for the equestrian team at your target university (IHSA walk-on or NCAA D1)

Start Your Global Education Journey

Professional advisors create personalized study-abroad plans. Invest 20–50K USD to pursue three American equestrian pathways simultaneously.

Book a Consultation