BASI Level 4 ISTD: the top of the system
BASI Level 4 ISTD is the final stage of BASI's instructor system, with Level 4 Teaching and Technical courses that need Level 3.
- What it is: The highest level in BASI's instructor system.
- What you need first: The BASI Level 3 qualification in your discipline. Ski Level 4 Teaching also needs 200 hours of teaching experience.
- Cost: Not published on BASI's course pages. Lift passes aren't included.
- What's next: Coaching pathways.
This is the summit of BASI's system: the Level 4 International Snowsports Teaching Diploma.
The courses
- Level 4 Teaching (4 days): high-level, learner-centred coaching. For snowboard, BASI calls it the final teaching module in its pathway. Skiers need 200 hours of teaching, ideally logged in the mountains between Level 3 Teaching and this course.
- Level 4 Technical, ski (4 days): short turns, long turns and bumps at the highest level, on a performance ski.
- Level 4 Technical, snowboard (5 days): high-end riding across every strand, with video feedback. Bring a transceiver, shovel and probe for the variable strand.
- Level 4 Freeride, ski (3 days): steeps and variable snow in lift-accessed off-piste, on a wider ski. Bring a transceiver, shovel and probe.
Source: Ski courses and Snowboard courses, BASI, checked October 2026.
Governing body: Snowsport England in England, Snowsport Scotland in Scotland and Snowsport Cymru Wales in Wales. They set the standards for skiing and snowboarding, so they're the official places to find out more. Instructor qualifications also come from BASI.
Typical prices, checked October 2026. The club or coach sets and bills the price.
The club map lists some of the UK clubs for this sport. It is a starting point, so check with the club before you travel. To have a coach found for you, use the enquiry form.
