International - Frequently Asked Questions

·         I'm brand new to this - what do I do?  I suggest reading this page, downloading the Athlete Handbook and reading it.  There is a lot to learn about competing internationally and it can be found here.  If you are still confused about anything after this, please contact Corinne Greenman at 719-866-4511 x4 or

·         What's the FIE and why do we follow their rules?  The FIE is the International Fencing Federation.  They govern the sport of fencing globally.  They are recognized by the International Olympic Committee as the organization that manages Olympic Fencing.  We follow their rules because of this.

·         What international competitions are out there?  There are several different types.  Most importantly are the FIE competitions.  They have two levels, Senior and Junior.  Cadet international competitions are usually a different country's version of one of our NACs.

·         How do I sign up for these competitions?  You must complete the "Request for Entry" form.  This form has detailed explanations of how to sign up and who is eligible.  It is important to remember that submission of the "Request for Entry" form does not guarantee acceptance to compete at the competition.

·         So, just who is eligible for these anyway?  First, it depends on your weapon, then on your age level.  There is a chart on the "Request for Entry" form that details who is eligible.  It is based on the USFA point standings that are current as of the deadline for entry for each competition.  Those fencers selected for these competitions must have a current FIE license.

·         OK, how do I get an FIE license?  The FIE license form is available here.  Please complete it and fax or mail it in.  If we do not have a copy of your passport on file, it should accompany your form.  If you do not have a passport and are in the process of getting one, please indicate that on your form.  Licenses are ordered by the USFA and fencers are emailed a confirmation.  Receiving the actual license can take 4-6 weeks after processing, as the license must come from Europe to the USFA office and is then mailed out to you.

·         Where do I find a list of these competitions?  Calendars for each weapon can be found here.  Designated competitions are in bold.

·         How many fencers can go to these competitions?  For all Junior World Cups the USFA can send 12 fencers and 12 fencers only per weapon.  There is no exception to this FIE rule.  For Senior World Cups - 12 fencers regardless of weapon.  For Senior Grand Prix competitions - 8 fencers regardless of weapon.   

·         What is this designated competition business?  The National Weapon Coach designates certain competitions for each level.  These are then called "designated competitions".  These are the competitions that will count towards Group II points for team selection and point calculation.  Non-designated Junior World Cups are not eligible for USFA points.  Non-designated Senior World Cups are eligible for USFA Senior Group I replacement points.

·         Whoa!  Points?  What's that all about?  Discussing the USFA's point system could take several hours and lots of typing.  Rather than recreate it here, points are discussed in depth in the Athlete Handbook.  After you've reviewed the relevant chapters, if you still have questions, please contact Corinne Greenman at 719-866-4511 x4 or .

·         How do I know you received my "Request for Entry" form?  You can include a fax/email confirmation sheet with your form, just like with a NAC entry form.  You can also check the International section of this site.  From this page, click your weapon's squad page and then on the level of the competition.  You'll find a list of all the competitions for that level and who's signed up.  These lists are updated every few days.

·         OK, I'm on your list - am I going??  Well, you've got to wait until after the deadline for entry.  1-2 business days after the deadline, you'll receive an email from Corinne Greenman.  This will have the list of all the fencers, alternates, referees (if known), coaches (if known), and those fencers not eligible.  Attached will be the information from the organizer on the competition.  The website will also be updated with this information.

·         I'm listed as a fencer - now what?  Congratulations - you are confirmed to compete!  Review the information, buy a ticket, make a hotel reservation, and go win a gold medal!  The National Office takes care of registering you.  You pay the entry fee in cash at registration.  Sometimes there is a coach or team leader designated for the competition that can help with logistics.  If there is one for your competition, it will be listed in the email.

·         I'm an alternate - do I go just in case? - NO.  Alternates are listed and called up if needed prior to 10 days before the competition.  Should one of the fencers withdraw, the first alternate will be contacted.  Further information can be found in the "Request for Entry" form.

·         I'm not eligible, can I still go?  This is decided on a case-by-case basis.  Details regarding exceptions can be found in the "Request for Entry" form - are you realizing that this is an important form?

·         I need to withdraw - what do I do?  Withdraws must be received in writing (fax, mail, or email).  Send them to Corinne Greenman at or via fax to 719-632-5737  Voice mail is not acceptable.  The deadline for a withdrawal is 21 days prior to the first day of competition.  Fencers withdrawing after the deadline or who do not show at the competition will be fined $1500.  Exceptions to this fine may be considered if the fencer is withdrawing due to an injury or illness that prevents the fencer from competing.  Medical documentation from a doctor and a written request to waive the fine is required for consideration.  Repetitive infractions may not be considered.  Further details can be found in the - you guessed it - "Request for Registration" form.

·         What about travel?  For the most part, travel is on your own.  Sometimes there is a coach or team leader designated for the competition that can help with logistics.  If there is one for your competition, it will be listed in the email confirming your participation.

·         There is a registration form with the organizer info - do I fill that out?  NO.  The USFA registers all fencers.  You can just ignore that part of the information.

·         What if I need a visa?  You are responsible for determining if you need a visa and obtaining it.  Ask your travel agent or visit the government's website regarding visas.