The IHSA's competitions are affordable because individual colleges host each event and provide the horses. However, this is not the only unique aspect of IHSA competitions. Riders compete in two riding disciplines, english and western, and four different classes, equitation over fences, equitation on the flat, western horsemanship and reining. Horses and riders are paired up randomly by drawing. This enables riders to compete on an even keel and truly test their horsemanship ability.
Levels range from beginner walk-trot through advanced open equitation competition.
At the more advanced levels, competition includes jumping as well as flat work. Riders advance through the levels by accumulating points at the horse shows. Once 35 points have been accumulated, the rider advances to the next level. Once riders qualify at the horse shows, winners compete at the regional finals. The top three winners from that competition go on to the zone finals.