The Canadian Collegiate Equestrian Federation (CCEF) was officially founded in 2019 by a former Ontario Collegiate Equestrian Association president, as well as industry professionals across Canada. Affiliated organizations strive to offer students a way to continue riding and competing without the same financial and time commitments traditionally associated with the sport. Prior to the CCEF, province and zone associations ran individually, hosting their own provincial and regional finals. The goal in mind while creating the CCEF was harmony, inclusiveness, and growth to connect all equestrian students across Canada. The CCEF offers a finals for hunter equitation riders ranging in ability, and riders compete on donated horses that they have not previously ridden.
Individual qualifier shows are run by member teams within affiliated associations (AIEL). Each affiliated association offers a large quantity of competitions per season to earn points to accumulate and qualify for the CCEF finals.