ASA's new student certification fee

Effective October 1, 2007, ASA will require all sailing schools to include a one-time $39 certification fee for students at the Basic Keelboat certification level (ASA 101).

Since many ASA schools have already published and advertised fall course prices, students registering for classes that start after October 1 should check directly with a given school regarding whether the new fee is or is not included in the school's published course price.

The new fee will apply only to Basic Keelboat courses. It does not apply to upper level keelboat, small boat or multihull certification courses.

The fee will allow ASA to greatly improve the benefits for sailing students. Effective October 1, students completing ASA's Basic Keelboat course will receive a one year membership in the American Sailing Association, including benefits such as sailing magazine subscriptions and discounts on sailing gear and sailing charters. Unlike many other sport certification programs in the United States, membership in our organization is not a requirement for maintaining your certification or taking additional ASA courses.

With the implementation of this new program, all students completing any level of ASA certification course will receive a certification card indicating all certification levels that the student has successfully completed. Students at all levels will also gain access to ASA's new online certification system, allowing them to access their certification information and learn about sailing opportunities directly via the web.

On behalf of the entire ASA community, we look forward to being able to continue improving the quality of your sailing experience!