The exams are the next step on the pathway towards becoming a Certified Instructor the Advanced Exams can only be taken after completion of the Monty Roberts Advanced Course of Horsemanship and sufficient home / field study.
You will be tested on your knowledge and overall experience in Monty’s concepts. The emphasis here is on practical work and the goal is to develop in you the mindset of a horse trainer.
- You will gentle wild or untouched horses
- Introducing wild or untouched horses to being handled, haltered and led
Another group of horses will go through the starting process:
- Initial trust building and desensitizing
- Introducing the tack and long-lining
Throughout you will be encouraged to read each horse and respond appropriately, adjusting your approach for each individual and dealing with problems as they arise.
When our Certified Instructors determine that you are ready, you will return for practical and written exams, at successful completion of which, you will graduate from the Advanced Course.
Once you have placed the order for your space in the upcoming course, our Monty Roberts Certified Instructors will contact you to confirm receiving the order and also answer any questions you may have regarding participation. We will also provide additional enrollment paperwork which will need to be filled out and submitted prior to attending.
While accommodations are not provided onsite, we do have connections with many local area hotels in Solvang, and Buellton. Please review our Transportation and Accommodation worksheet found here.
Progress Tracking & Credits
The Advanced Exam represents the highest level of evaluation within the MRILC Instructor Certification pathway. Eligibility is determined by completion of all prior requirements and instructor assessment of readiness.
📊 Eligibility & Progress Requirements
To qualify for the Advanced Exam, students must:
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Complete the Introductory Course
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Earn 975 credits
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Submit 5 LMS videos
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Pass the Intro Exam (written and practical)
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Complete the Intermediate Course
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Earn 1,125 credits
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Pass the Intermediate written exam (minimum 75%)
Advanced Exams are not automatically tied to course completion. Students may be required to demonstrate readiness through additional video submission and instructor evaluation before being approved to sit for the exam.
🎓 What Happens After Passing the Advanced Exam?
Students enter a two-year Continuing Education status as a Junior Instructor.
During this period:
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Assist a Certified Instructor
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Teach alongside them
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Participate in structured mentoring
This mentorship replaces the former internship program.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is there still an internship program?
No. The internship has been replaced with the two-year Junior Instructor mentoring period.
Do I have to complete the exam within a certain timeframe?
Yes. Students must take their Advanced Exam within one year of completing their final module.
After 12 months, students must:
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Retake required modules
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Re-earn required credits
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Resubmit required videos
What about students under the older structure?
Advanced students following the previous structure must complete their exams by the end of 2026. After that deadline, the revised module structure and updated requirements will apply.
If you have additional questions, please contact: