Most skaters choose, at some point, to test through U.S. Figure Skating’s test structure as explained in this testing overview. If you are interested in testing, read through this information, talk to your coach, and then make a plan.

U.S. Figure Skating has a clearly defined sequence of tests for all disciplines as shown on the Prerequisites page. These tests provide a clear path of development for skaters and allow skaters to demonstrate their accomplishments and achieve personal goals. The tests also establish a benchmarking structure for competitive purposes. All U.S. Figure Skating sanctioned competitions group skaters according to the levels of singles, pairs, or ice dance tests they have passed. This allows skaters of similar abilities to compete against each other. Skating skills tests are not used to determine any competition levels.

A panel of U.S. Figure Skating officials judge the tests, and the results become part of the skater’s official record in U.S. Figure Skating. Once a skater passes the last test level in each discipline, they become a U.S. Figure Skating gold medalist in that discipline.

Skaters wishing to participate in this formal testing structure must be members of U.S. Figure Skating. They can either attend an In-Person Test session or film a Virtual Test when they are ready. Fees vary as the host club determines them, but they often include an out-of-club fee and an online registration convenience fee in addition to the actual test fee.

Test sessions are judged by U.S. Figure Skating officials as part of either a single-judge or a three-judge panel. While most tests will have three-judge panels, some lower-level tests (the first and, perhaps, the second test in some disciplines) may have single-judge panels. A three-judge panel will have a designated judge-in-charge who is the judge the skater will communicate with, if needed.

Test Results are provided to the skater, their coach, the test chairperson at both the skater’s home club and the club where they are testing (if they are not the same), and U.S. Figure Skating. The results of the test become a part of the skater’s official record which the skater can be access in the Member section of the U.S. Figure Skating website.

Check out the additional information in this section about testing. It provides more detailed information than what is in this testing overview.