Figure skating in the U.S. can be either competitive or recreational, and those learning to skate can choose either route. While competitive skaters are required to participate in the U.S. testing structure in order to compete in qualifying competitions, recreational skaters can also opt to take tests in order to continually challenge themselves and their abilities.

The official tests of U.S. Figure Skating may be taken by all figure skaters who are members of a member club or collegiate club, individual members who are currently registered with U.S. Figure Skating and are otherwise qualified under these rules, as well as by members of a member association of the ISU.

Test sessions can only be held under the auspices and control of a member club. Fees are involved and vary by club. Clubs do not need a sanction to hold a test session.

Sessions are organized and run under procedures outlined in the U.S. Figure Skating Rulebook. Any person who is interested in participating in the U.S. Figure Skating testing structure should review the U.S. Figure Skating Rulebook, and the information on this page to find the types of tests offered, the elements on each test, how tests are marked, which judges are required, age requirements for different test categories and conduct of coaches and candidates at test sessions. 

The order in which tests are taken is important. According to Rule 4002 in the rulebook: “A candidate shall not be eligible to take a higher-level test until all of the preceding tests in the same category have been passed or completed except as otherwise specified in these rules.”

As a way for U.S. Figure Skating to congratulate skaters for passing tests, we will generate a personalized school recognition letter that can be forwarded to teacher(s) and/or principal, school leadership, etc. The letter will be personally addressed to them, will include the skater’s name, the test passed and information about what this test means to the athlete’s skating career and resumé. 

As a member club of US Figure Skating, SC of Huntsville offers skaters the opportunity to test their skating at all levels from Pre Preliminary through Gold in Skating Skills, Singles, Pairs and Preliminary through International in Partnered Pattern Dance, Preliminary through Gold in Solo Pattern Dance, Free Dance, and all Adult Tests in all disciplines. We also offer testing for Skate United.

Test Sessions may be either in person or virtual. In-person test sessions are scheduled at the beginning of each skating “year” usually being held quarterly. Skaters register through Entry-Eeze and pay the stated fees. The SC of Huntsville Test Chair receives the registrations, develops the schedule, secures the appropriate judges, and registers the scores after the session is complete. Skaters perform the test in real time before the judges.

Virtual testing began during Covid. In this form of testing the skater’s test is recorded in video format. The video is uploaded to the Entry-Eeze platform where it is viewed by the selected officials who record their marks and comments. The Test Chair then records the marks into the USFS website (registers the tests) and transmits the results to the skaters and their coaches.  This is an “electronic” process as opposed to In Person testing.

U.S. Figure Skating Rulebook:

https://members.usfsaonline.org/members-only/members/rulebook-and-policies

Virtual Testing Handbook:

https://members.usfsaonline.org/sites/default/files/media-files/Virtual%20Testing%20Handbook.pdf