Certification Programs

The Institute offers three tiers of professional certification in competitive napping.

ICN certification is the recognized standard for competitive napping professionals worldwide. Certified individuals are eligible to judge sanctioned events, coach competitors, and participate in the Institute's formal research programs. Certification is awarded following examination; it is not awarded by application or tenure.

Certified Nap Judge (CNJ)

Entry Level

The CNJ credential qualifies holders to serve on judging panels for sanctioned Sprint Nap and Marathon Nap events. CNJs may not serve as lead judge without additional supervision in their first three events.

Requirements:

✓ Completion of ICN Judging Fundamentals course (12 hours)
✓ Observation of 3 sanctioned events (with certified judge supervision)
✓ Written examination: Rules knowledge, biometric assessment, Relay handoff protocols
✓ Practical assessment: Live judging of one supervised event

Recertification required every 3 years or following any rules revision affecting scored criteria.

Master Napper (MN)

Competitor Credential

The MN designation recognizes competitive nappers who have achieved a defined performance standard across all three recognized disciplines. It is not an honorary title. It is earned through competition. Several applicants have been declined.

Requirements:

✓ Minimum ICN rating of 2,200 in at least two disciplines
✓ Podium finish (top 3) in at least one sanctioned event per discipline
✓ Submission of a performance portfolio reviewed by the Standards Committee
✓ Two letters of attestation from CNJ-certified judges who have observed the applicant compete

The MN designation does not expire, but holders are expected to remain active in competition or transition to the coaching track.

Elite Somnolence Coach (ESC)

Advanced · Required for Head Judging

The ESC credential is the Institute's highest professional certification. ESCs are qualified to serve as head judge at any sanctioned event, coach competitors at the elite level, and develop training programs on behalf of the Institute. All sanctioned events must include at least one ESC on the judging panel.

Requirements:

✓ Active CNJ certification
✓ Minimum 5 years judging experience at sanctioned events
✓ Lead judge role in at least 10 sanctioned events
✓ Completion of Advanced Somnolence Science curriculum (40 hours)
✓ Publication of at least one peer-reviewed contribution to ICN research journals or proceedings
✓ Oral examination before a three-person ESC review board

There are currently 14 ESC-certified individuals worldwide. The Institute considers this appropriate given the standards involved.

Questions about certification pathways or eligibility?

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