The idea behind this format is to most objectively test horsemanship skills, while incurring minimal cost to the college participants. Riders must randomly draw the name of a horse from a hat just prior to their competitions. Competitors are not allowed to warm up the horses, but instead are judged from the moment they mount. Riders are placed in divisions based on their skill and experience. During competitions, riders accumulate individual points and, in addition, each team designates a rider in each division whose points count towards team competition totals.
Beginners are as important in team standings as advanced riders.
Riders qualify for nationals by either being a part of the team with the most points in its region by the end of the season or by earning enough individual points to qualify for regionals. From regionals, riders who place first, second, or third advance to zone competition, where they must place first or second to earn a spot at nationals. NMSU's equestrian team uses 41 equestrian program horses. The team's facility, which has two arenas, is at the western-most end of NMSU's main campus. Community College, the University of Denver, the University of Colorado, United States Air Force Academy and the University of Wyoming.