Letter from IHSA - Updated Promotion Process and Winter Sports - Oct 23, 2026

The IHSA Officials Department would like to share important information regarding our new and simplified promotion process.
We have included the Winter Sports FYI link for you to reference as needed: Winter Sports Information Link

Promotion Eligibility

Officials who have officiated a winter sport at their current classification level for at least two school years are eligible to take the Part 2 Rules Exam to advance to the next classification level.

Good news! The promotion process is easier than ever! Officials are no longer required to submit a promotion application or obtain recommendations.

Promotion Exam Information

Testing Window: November 24 – December 1, 2026

To access the Part 2 Rules Exam:(starting November 24th)

Log in to your Arbiter account.

Select the Eligibility tab.

Click View Details.

Scroll to the bottom of the page.

Locate and select the Part 2 Rules Exam link.

Important Exam Reminders

No Time Limit: The exam is untimed. Officials are encouraged to use their rule book, case book, and other available resources.

One Attempt: Officials will have only one opportunity to complete the Part 2 Rules Exam during the 2026–27 school year.

Passing Score: A score of 92% or higher is required to earn promotion.

Immediate Results: Your exam score will be available immediately upon completion.

Classification Updates: Officials who successfully complete the exam will see their new classification level reflected in Arbiter after the testing window closes on December 1.

We encourage all eligible officials to take advantage of this opportunity to advance their officiating careers!

Thank you for your continued dedication and commitment to officiating IHSA contests. Your service plays an important role in supporting our student-athletes and member schools across Illinois.

IHSA Officials Department