In Europe, DanceSport qualifications are managed through a standardized system of Class Letters (for skill) and Age Categories.Unlike the US "Syllabus" system (Bronze, Silver, Gold), Europe primarily uses a letter-based promotion system overseen by the World DanceSport Federation (WDSF) and national bodies like the DTV (Germany), FFD (France), or STSV (Switzerland).

In most European countries, you are assigned a "Class" based on your competitive history. You must earn a specific number of points and "placements" (top-tier finishes) to move to the next level.

• Class E (Beginner): The entry point. Usually limited to 3 or 4 basic dances with very strict step restrictions (only basic figures allowed).

• Class D & C (Intermediate): You add more dances (e.g., adding Samba or Slow Foxtrot). Step restrictions still apply to ensure solid technique.

• Class B & A (Advanced): Most step restrictions are lifted. You are now dancing all 5 dances in each discipline.

• Class S (Special/International): The highest amateur level. This is the "Championship" class where couples compete for national titles and in WDSF World Ranking events.

To compete in any "Open" event in Europe, you must have an active WDSF ID Card (also known as a MIN - Member Identification Number).

• WDSF ID: This is a digital or physical card that tracks your results and level across all European borders.

• National License: You usually must first be a member of your local National DanceSport Federation (e.g., ÖTSV in Austria or FIDS in Italy) to apply for the international WDSF card.

European competitions are very strict about age. Your category is determined by the year you were born, not your birthday.

• Juvenile (U12): Reach 11 or younger in the calendar year.

• Junior (I & II): Reach 12–15 in the calendar year.

• Youth (U19/U21): Reach 16–20 in the calendar year.

• Adult: 19+.

• Senior (I through IV): Senior I starts at age 35 (one partner can be 30+). Senior IV is for those reaching 65+.

Europe is known for strict "Invigilation."

• • Syllabus Restrictions: In classes E through C, a judge (Invigilator) watches specifically for "illegal" steps. Using a Class B step in a Class D heat can lead to immediate disqualification.

  • Dress Code: Beginner classes (E-C) often forbid "shining" fabrics (sequins, rhinestones, feathers). Men often wear a simple white shirt and tie, and women wear a plain "practice-style" dress. Championship-style "stones and tailsuits" are reserved for higher classes.