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Apply to Sun Valley Ski Academy and See your Dreams Take Flight
Sun Valley Ski Academy isn’t just looking for student-athletes who ski or snowboard fast—we want kids who will bring energy, passion, and a positive attitude to our tight-knit community. We’re all about the right fit. Our Admission Committee looks for student-athletes who are not only dedicated to their sport but also ready to dive into everything our unique environment has to offer—both on and off the mountain.
We consider your academic drive, teacher and coach recommendations, transcripts, standardized testing, and interviews with key staff members. But we also want to know what makes you you. What sparks your curiosity beyond skiing or snowboarding? How do you handle challenges? What kind of teammate are you?
At the end of the day, we’re looking for student-athletes who thrive in a dynamic, demanding, and supportive environment—and whose families share our vision for a well-rounded, high-performance education. If that sounds like you, let’s talk! Contact Program Director Jonna Mendes at 208.720.0512 or via email.
Seeing is Believing
Do you think Sun Valley Ski Academy might be the perfect fit for you? The best way to find out isn’t by scrolling through a website—it’s by experiencing it for yourself. We strongly encourage student-athletes to visit because, trust us, once you’re here, you’ll get it.
A visit isn’t just a quick campus tour—it’s a full immersion into life at SVSA. You’ll sit in on classes, meet our Admissions team, chat with the SVSA Program Director, and connect with the Head Coach of your ski or snowboard program. You’ll check out Rufus M. Brown Hall (the dorm) and see what your room might look like as a boarding student, check out our wax room, and the Julia Argyros Training Center—places that will quickly start to feel like home. And of course, you’ll do what we do best: train on Baldy, hit the terrain park, or glide on the Nordic trails with our team and coaches.
There’s no better way to picture yourself here than by actually being here. So come see what makes Sun Valley unlike anywhere else. We can’t wait to show you around!
Ready to Apply? Follow These Steps.
- Visit Us!
- Complete an Application
- Complete SSAT testing
- Upon acceptance, register with the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation
The SVSA Difference
As an SVSA athlete, you will:
Find meaningful academic challenge at Community School;
Train as a member of Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation, benefitting from a world-class coaching staff and superior and varied training conditions;
Have flexibility and support to pursue intensive training and competition schedules;
Participate in Sun Valley Community School’s signature Outdoor Program, exploring the landscape of the West through trips that make the most of the area’s stunning wilderness areas and connect you with your school community.
When I came and toured, I felt really comfortable. People are really friendly and you get a real feel for how everyone actually acts—people are genuine here.
Sophia '19, SVSA Cross Country Athlete