Should you choose a 2, 3 or 5-week ski instructor course in Austria?

Snowminds March 19, 2026

Do you dream of becoming a ski or snowboard instructor in Austria but feel unsure which course is the best fit for you?

The courses vary in length, pace, and the amount of preparation you receive before the exam. What they all have in common, however, is one goal: to give you the right skills, experience, and preparation to pass the Austrian Level 1 – Anwärter exam and prepare you for a season as an instructor at a ski school in Austria.

The Anwärter exam is the Austrian Level 1 ski instructor certification, which allows you to teach beginner and intermediate skiers at an Austrian ski school. The exam itself lasts 10 days and tests both your technical level and your teaching abilities. You will be evaluated on your skiing, your understanding of technique, your ability to teach, and your knowledge of safety and theory.

The exam takes place in German. You therefore need to be able to communicate at a conversational level or be willing to learn before the course begins. During the course, you will receive language training in the most important professional terms and teaching situations, and you also have the option to take our German course to be extra well prepared.

The difference between the 2, 3, and 5-week courses is how much time you have to develop your skiing, prepare technically, and get used to the language and conditions before the exam begins. Once you have passed the exam, a seasonal job at a ski school in Austria awaits you.

After passing your Austrian Level 1 (Anwärter), you can choose to take the next step and continue your education with the Austrian Level 2 ski instructor certification, also called Landes. It is not a requirement, but a great opportunity if you want to develop your skills further. Many people choose to take the Landes course towards the end of the season.

5 week instructor course with season

The 5-week course is for those who want to take their skiing to the next level, both on and off piste. It is our most popular course. You get 16 days of training to refine your technique and prepare thoroughly for the Anwärter exam. On average, more than 95% of participants pass. The course is suitable for both those with limited experience and those who have skied their whole lives.

A key reason for its popularity is the strong sense of community. Former instructors often highlight the social bond as something truly special – invaluable during both the training and the season. You can expect team events, shared experiences, and a vibrant social life throughout. The course starts in November, and you can read more about it here.

3 week instructor course with season

A great option if you want to start your season quickly while still receiving solid preparation. You get 6 days of intensive training focused on technique before taking the Anwärter exam, then go straight into your season job. Due to the shorter duration, a strong skiing level and good German skills are required. Choose between departures in November or January, and read more about our 3-week training course here.

2 week instructor course with season

This is the express route to a season. It offers the most intensive preparation, with 2 days of training before the exam. Therefore, a solid foundation in skiing and German is required. The shorter preparation time means the pass rate is lower than on the longer courses. This course has departures in November and January. Read more about our 2 week course here. 

No matter which course you choose, you can expect an experience filled with skiing, community, development, and memories for life. Book the best winter of your life here!

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