Qualifying

Exhibitors have several opportunities to earn invitations to the AQHYA World Championship Show.

Earn Qualifying Points

  • Earn the required number of qualifying points for the desired class during the 2025 AQHYA World Show qualifying period, May 1, 2025, to April 30, 2026, and pay the standard entry fee. This qualifying achievement will be added to the horse’s permanent AQHA record.
  • View qualifying point requirements.

Qualify as an Affiliate (State/Provincial) Invitee

  • AQHYA exhibitors will also have the ability to work through their respective affiliate to enter the AQHYA World as an affiliate qualifier. This qualifying method will not be added to the horse’s permanent AQHA record. View the list of advisers.

Level 1 Champion of Champions

  • Youth exhibitors at the 2026 AQHA East, West and Cattle Level 1 Championships earn invitations to the Level 1 Champion of Champions held during the 2026 AQHYA World Championship Show in the seven core classes plus halter. The core classes are western pleasure, showmanship, western horsemanship, hunter under saddle, hunt seat equitation, trail and ranch riding.

  • Additional qualifying opportunities are available for Level 1-eligible halter exhibitors. If a horse/exhibitor combination did not show in their halter class at the 2026 AQHA East or West Level 1 Championships, they can also qualify by showing at 4 AQHA events or earning at least 0.5 point.