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USFS Testing is a way to measure a skater’s progress in skating skills, moves, and overall development. It is an official evaluation where skaters perform specific required elements, and if they pass, they advance to the next level.

If a skater does not pass, they receive a “retry” and are eligible to retest after a set amount of days determined by USFS. 

Skaters should consider testing because it provides a clear way to measure progress, build confidence, and work toward new goals. Testing also helps skaters develop strong fundamentals and can open opportunities for future competitions and advancement within U.S. Figure Skating. Testing isn’t mandatory for all skaters, but it helps set clear goals, track progress, and can be required to compete at certain levels.

Every skater progresses at a different pace, so it is important to consult your coach to determine when you are ready to test and to create the best plan for success.

There is no one-size-fits-all timeline for testing. Skaters begin testing when they have developed the required skills and are ready based on their individual progress, goals, and competition level. The best time to start is different for every skater, so it is important to consult with your coach.

How often a skater tests also depends on readiness, goals, available ice time, and the amount of practice hours leading up to the test. Some skaters may test multiple times per year, while others may test less frequently. Coaches help determine the right timing and create a plan that supports each skater’s long-term development.

Your coach will evaluate your skater’s skills, consistency, and overall readiness, and will let you know when they are prepared to take a test. Coaches use their experience to determine when a skater can confidently perform the required elements at the standard expected.

Skaters should not be attempting tests before they are ready. All tests are held to a high standard, and judges want to see skaters succeed and pass when they step onto the ice. Waiting until a skater is truly prepared helps create the best possible testing experience and outcome.

No. Skaters can choose which disciplines to test in based on their interests, goals, and training focus. However, it is important to note that Singles tests often determine the level at which a skater can individually compete, while Skating Skills tests may determine the level at which a skater can participate on a competitive synchronized skating team.

Typically, higher test levels can create more opportunities for skaters, including collegiate skating, team skating, specialized camp experiences, and future coaching opportunities.

Every skater develops at their own pace, and there is no “right” or “wrong” timeline for testing. Skaters may be at different levels, progressing at different rates, and working toward different goals. Factors such as practice time, lesson frequency, and individual readiness all affect when a skater is prepared to test.

It is also important to remember that while groups of skaters may share similar goals, or even group goals, testing is still an individual process. Each skater’s path and readiness will be different.

The most important thing is that your skater feels confident and fully prepared before taking a test. Do your best not to compare timelines for every skater’s journey is different, and progress in skating is not a race.

Skaters may have the option to test either virtually or at an in-person test session, depending on the test type, availability, and timing. Both options can be effective, and the best choice depends on the individual skater’s needs and goals.

Oka Skating Academy strongly encourages in-person test sessions whenever possible because they provide valuable learning experiences. Skaters gain experience performing under pressure, being surrounded by teammates and friends, and learning how an official test session works. In many cases, skaters may also have opportunities to observe or speak with judges, making it a very different experience than virtual testing.

Virtual testing can also be a great option for some skaters, especially when scheduling, travel, deadlines, or test session availability make in-person testing more difficult.

Result timelines are very different. In-person tests typically receive results within about 20 minutes, while virtual testing results can take anywhere from several days to a few weeks to be returned.

During the test, the skater performs the required moves or program in front of a panel of official judges who evaluate their performance. Before the test begins, skaters usually have a short warm-up period, often around five minutes, to prepare on the ice.

One benefit of in-person testing is the opportunity for a “retry.” If a skater makes an error on one of the required moves, judges may allow them to repeat that element to demonstrate they can successfully perform the skill. In some cases, this can positively impact the final result of the test.

After the test, the skater leaves the ice and waits for results. Judges submit their scores once all skaters in the group have finished. 

The host club then records the results and provides them to your coach, usually shortly after the group is done testing, often within about 20 minutes. Your coach will review the results with the skater and discuss feedback.

During a virtual test, the skater performs their test on video instead of at an in-person test session. Typically, special ice time is needed so the skater can complete the test without interference from other skaters on the ice. A videographer, proctor, and coach are usually required to help ensure the test is conducted properly and meets official standards. Specific forms and paperwork must also be completed before the test can take place.

The skater performs the entire test in one continuous run. There are no retries, and the video must be submitted exactly as recorded with no cuts or edits.

Virtual testing often requires additional planning, scheduling, and coordination compared to an in-person test. After submission, results are not immediate and may take up to a few weeks to be returned.

If a skater does not pass, they receive a “retry.” This means the test performance did not yet meet the required standard, and the skater will have the opportunity to test again after the waiting period set by U.S. Figure Skating.

Entry-level tests are often judged by a single judge, who determines the pass or retry result. Higher-level tests are typically judged by a panel of three judges. In those cases, the skater must receive a majority pass, meaning at least two judges award a pass. For example, if two judges give a pass and one gives a retry, the overall result is still a pass.

If a skater receives a retry, the coach and skater review the judges’ scorecards and feedback, then continue practicing and improving the necessary areas before retesting.

Retries are very normal and a common part of the testing process. It does not mean the skater has failed, it simply means the performance on that day was not yet satisfactory. Many successful skaters have received retries and returned stronger the next time.

Simply tell your coach and/or indicate your interest on your enrollment forms. 

Testing is a conversation between you and your coach. In many cases, coaches have already introduced testing skills and elements during regular lessons without the skater even realizing it. Testing is usually a progression that develops over time, typically not a sudden change in training. If your skater is ready and there are no limitations to beginning the process, your coach will start...or continue...teaching the specific requirements for the appropriate tests.

Open communication helps create the best plan for your skater’s goals and progress.

Encourage consistent practice, maintain a positive attitude, and trust your coach’s guidance throughout the process. Celebrate effort and progress, not just results, and help your skater stay confident and motivated. 

Testing can bring nerves, so your support, patience, and encouragement can make a big difference in their experience.

Testing fees vary depending on the host club, test level, and discipline. Typically, you’ll pay a club testing fee plus any associated ice or practice fees. 

For dance tests, there is an additional fee for ‘dance partner practice’ and a separate testing fee for the dance partner. 

Coaches who travel with skaters will charge shared expenses such as mileage, lodging and meals, plus a per-event coaching fee. Your coach can provide a detailed breakdown of all applicable coaching fees.

Your coach will let you know which test(s) your skater should take and when registration opens. Test registration usually opens about one month before the event, but the official schedule is often released only 3 to 7 days prior (for in-person tests). Because each club’s timeline varies and schedules can come out with short notice, it’s important to stay ready and flexible for quick registration.

You will need to complete a Permission to Test Form to submit to the host club. This is done through your programs Test Chair and/or Director.  This leader will ensure your skater is in good standing with the program and all coaches before signing permission to test.

The first step is to let your coach and program director know that your skater is interested in competing. You can also note this on your enrollment forms each season.

Families should communicate their decision to compete fairly early in the season so our coaching team has enough time to properly prepare the skater and their family for competition, including training plans, added communication, choreography, level selection, and overall readiness.

Competitive skaters are expected to take an active role in their preparation throughout the season. This includes regularly practicing the required elements for their program(s), running their programs with music during practice sessions, and consistently working on the skills needed for competition readiness.

Skaters should come to practices and lessons prepared, focused, and ready to learn. Families should also be prepared to communicate with coaches, stay aware of competition deadlines, and support practice habits outside of lessons.

As the first competition approaches, additional preparation opportunities may be offered. At our Williston program location, this includes our annual Comp Prep/Rehearsal Day, where skaters practice warm-ups, entering and exiting the ice, and performing their programs in a setting that mirrors an actual competition. This simulation event is designed to help skaters feel confident and prepared for competition day.

If your skater only has group lessons, they will need to schedule add-on private lessons  with their competition coach. While any member may schedule add-on lessons at any time, most competitive skaters need to purchase a few lessons to ensure adequate one-on-one time with their coach to learn choreography and receive individualized competition preparation.

Once the choreography has been learned, the need for one-on-one lessons often changes based on the skater’s progress and goals. Some skaters may need only a few additional add-ons, while others may choose more support leading up to the competition. Add-on lessons are always available if your skater would benefit from extra one-on-one time before the event.

Competition levels and events are selected based on a skater’s current skill level, confidence, and overall readiness. In general, skaters compete at their highest passed level or sometimes one level above, depending on their progress and preparation. Your competition coach will have a strong understanding of your skater’s current abilities and will help choose the most appropriate level for a positive and successful experience.

For Learn to Skate track events, skaters typically compete at the highest level they have officially passed. A level is considered passed when the skater has successfully demonstrated and mastered all required skills within that level, not just some of them. For example, if a skater has passed Basic 4 and is currently working in Basic 5, they would usually compete in Basic 4.

For higher-level competitive tracks, U.S. Figure Skating testing requirements determine eligibility and affect which levels or events a skater is allowed to enter. Your coach will guide you through those requirements when the time comes.

What a skater wears for competition often depends on the type of event they are entering.

For events such as freeskate/singles, program-with-music, elements, most skaters wear traditional skating attire: typically a skating dress for girls or a performance shirt and pants combination for boys. Skaters usually pair this with beige tights (if applicable) and clean, polished skates. The outfit should be comfortable, allow full movement, and complement the performance and music without being distracting.

For events such as Showcase, attire is often more of a costume. The outfit should connect to and reflect the character, theme, or emotion the skater is portraying in the performance.

Skaters also wear our program jacket at competitions. It is perfect for practice ice, keeps skaters warm around the rink, and proudly represents their home program.

Best advice: consult your coach on what to wear for each event. They will have recommendations based on the event type, program style, and what will help your skater feel confident and prepared!

For our Williston program, we choose the competitions our program will attend as a group based on the overall season schedule and what best supports our skaters and families. When selecting events, we consider factors such as avoiding back-to-back competition weekends, minimizing conflicts with other important events, allowing adequate preparation time, and reasonable travel distance.

While there are many competitions available throughout the season, attending an event individually can be a different experience than attending with your teammates, coaches, and fellow program families. Both options are perfectly fine, but we strongly value camaraderie, community, and team support. We believe those shared experiences are an important and special part of the competitive journey.

Group attendance can also be more practical for families. When coaches attend events with multiple skaters, coaching fees and travel-related costs can often be shared among participating families rather than covered entirely by one family. Our coaching team may also choose to attend additional competitions when schedules allow.

Yes, your skater may attend other competitions individually, even if they are not part of Oka’s planned program schedule. However, it is best practice to consult your competition coach first so training, lesson plans, and preparation remain aligned with the event timeline and goals.

If this is something your family is considering, the first step is to speak with your coaching team so expectations are clear on all sides.

At Oka, we follow a primary/secondary coaching structure. Your designated competition coach is the primary coach for that discipline and wears the “decision hat” for competition planning, level selection, choreography, overall program direction, and attending events with the skater when possible.

A skater may also have different primary coaches in other disciplines. For example, a skater may have one primary competition coach and a different primary skating skills coach.

A secondary coach may work with the skater on specific skills and elements, but does not typically make final decisions regarding competition levels, choreography, or the skater’s overall competitive direction.

When each coach has a clear role and communication is strong, a team coaching approach can be very beneficial for the skater.

Competition registration is completed online through the event’s official website. Parents or guardians are responsible for registering their skater.

Our director shares competition announcements, deadlines, and registration details for the events our program plans to attend, with members who are on track to compete. This means the skater and family have already discussed competition plans with their coach and/or director and have decided to compete (the decision is made well before most registrations opens, as U.S. Figure Skating program requirements are posted before the season begins). 

When registering, be sure to confirm your skater’s level and events with your coach to ensure the entry is correct. After registration is submitted, the coach and program director receive a confirmation request. A skater must be approved by both the coach and director and be in good standing with the program.

Families are also often able to purchase practice ice during registration, which we highly recommend. Practice ice sessions are usually 10–20 minutes and give skaters time to get comfortable on the ice, prepare for events, and work with their coach before competing.

Competition costs vary based on the host club, location, and number or level of events entered. Typically, families pay an entry fee for each event, along with any optional practice ice fees. Prior to the competition, there may also be costs for music preparation, skate sharpening, and any needed attire or accessories such as costumes, tights, guards, or extra laces.

Coaching fees may include shared expenses such as mileage, lodging, and meals, along with per-event coaching fees and practice ice support while on site. Your coach can provide a detailed breakdown of any applicable coaching costs.

At Oka, we do our best to communicate these expected costs to families ahead of time so you can plan and be prepared.

Many schools may consider a competition an excused absence if proper documentation is provided. However, school attendance policies vary, so it is important to check with your school in advance so there are no surprises.

U.S. Figure Skating offers a school absence request process for members. Families can complete the required form  to request an official school absence letter to share with their school.

Be sure to allow enough time for processing and communicate with your school early if travel will be required.

Yes. Our Williston program currently offers competitive skaters the opportunity to perform one of their competition programs at our annual Showcase event at the end of the main season. This gives skaters another chance to perform, celebrate their hard work, and share their progress with family, friends, and the community.

Competitive skaters also often build strong friendships and meaningful connections through the extra time spent together at the rink, practices, and events throughout the season. Those shared experiences can create a special sense of camaraderie and support.

That said, being a competitive skater is absolutely not the only way to feel connected or successful within our program. Many wonderful skaters choose not to compete and still enjoy friendships, growth, performances, and a fantastic skating experience with Oka.