The Introductory Exams can only be taken after completion of the Monty Roberts Introductory Course of Horsemanship and sufficient home / field study.
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 Introductory Course and be eligible to take the Advanced Course.
Classroom written exams will focus upon:
- Horse Evolution
- Behavior
- Sensory Systems
- Language
- Learning Theory
- and Monty's Methods
Practical Exams will focus upon:
- Join-Up
- Dually Halter Work
- Long-Lining
- Trailer Loading
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 Introductory Exam is part of the structured MRILC Instructor Certification pathway. Eligibility is based on demonstrated skill development and credit completion — not course attendance alone.
📊 How Progress Is Tracked
Students earn credits through graded module performance and required assignments.
To qualify for the Introductory Exam, students must:
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Earn a minimum of 975 credits
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Submit 5 LMS videos demonstrating proficiency in:
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Balance Line & Driving Position
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Line Handling Skills
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Join-Up Invitation
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Outside Turns
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A Complete Long Line Session
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All LMS videos are reviewed by the student’s instructor.
Written study materials are provided upon enrollment in the course path. The written exam is given at the end of the final Introductory module.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I don’t have enough credits yet?
Students may submit additional instructor-requested LMS videos (up to 20 credits per video), train at instructor facilities with Certified Instructors, or participate in approved one-on-one training sessions to earn additional credits.
Do I have to take the exam within a certain timeframe?
Yes. Students must take their exam within one year of completing their final module.
After 12 months, students must:
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Retake course modules
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Re-earn required credits
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Resubmit required LMS videos
Only then will eligibility be restored.
Are older structure students affected?
Students who completed modules under the previous structure must complete their exams by the end of 2026. After that deadline, updated course and credit requirements will apply.
If you have additional questions, please contact: