Thank you for your interest in the 2027 Seattle Basic Alpine Climbing Course.
This application includes:
-
Welcome and application information
-
Contact information
-
Eligibility confirmations
-
Four scored short-answer questions
-
Small Instructional Group placement information
-
Demographic information
-
Review, submission, and confirmation pages
Demographic and Small Instructional Group-placement answers are collected primarily for placement and program-planning purposes. Some responses may also be considered during application review. Whenever possible, names and other identifying information will be hidden during short-answer scoring.
Each short-answer response is limited to 150 words. We are looking for specific examples, actions, and honest reflection. We are not evaluating grammar, spelling, vocabulary, or writing style. Outdoor examples are welcome but are not required.
Important Dates
-
Application deadline: October 16, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time
-
Scholarship applicants: Please submit your scholarship application no later than October 16, 2026. Mountaineers Scholarships
-
Admission letters: Successful applicants will begin receiving admission letters on November 2, 2026.
-
Registration: Registration for successful applicants will be open November 3–13, 2026.
-
Additional admissions: If spaces remain open, additional admission letters will be sent beginning November 13, 2026.
-
Cancellation: The course fee, less $10, is refundable through December 13, 2026. No refunds will be issued after December 13, 2026.
Course contact: Kelsey Hoffman
Email: basic.climbing@gmail.com
Before You Begin
You may complete this application in one sitting or use Save and Continue Later to return before the deadline.
The four short-answer questions allow responses of up to 150 words each. You may draft your answers directly in the application or in a separate document. If you leave before submitting, use Save and Continue Later and retain the return link sent to you.
Selection and Lottery Process
Each short-answer question is evaluated from 0–4 by at least two independent reviewers.
Reviewer scores are averaged. If two reviewers differ substantially on a response, an additional reviewer may evaluate it.
After scoring is complete, the highest-scoring qualified applicants will enter the admission lottery.
Each applicant in the lottery pool will receive a computer-generated random number. Initial admission offers and waitlist positions will be made in lottery-number order.
Submitting an application does not guarantee admission.