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 to eventually 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. 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 is encouraged to purchase a rulebook. The rulebook addresses such questions as coaching and the conduct of candidates at test sessions.

 

Tests are marked on a "pass" or "retry" basis. Some tests have numeric marks associated with them that determine if the test is a "pass" or "retry." These are used to establish a "passing" average, and judges use this number as a basis for the quality of the test. Different tests have different standards for "pass" and "retry," along with different procedures for reskating elements in a test. For details, candidates should consult the rulebook for the particular test to be taken. If a test is marked "retry" a skater may not retake the test prior to the 27th following the date of the original test.

 

For all tests other than adult and masters tests, age is not a factor. To qualify for an adult test, the candidate must be 21 years of age or older. To qualify for masters tests, the candidate must be 50 years of age or older.

There are several classes of tests in the U.S. Figure Skating structure:

 

1.  Moves in the field (standard and adult)

2.  Free skate (or free skating) (standard track and adult)

3.  Pairs (standard track and adult)

4.  Compulsory Dance (standard track, solo, adult and masters)

5.  Free dance (standard track and masters)

 

The order in which tests are taken is important. According to TR 2.02 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.

 

Please refer to the U.S. Figure Skating Rulebook to gain a better understanding of all the test rules and expectations before testing. Further description of the elements of each test is available in the rulebook.

 

 

In order to participate in a test session sponsored by Heartland Figure Skating Club, online registration must be completed and payment received by the deadline.