The test structure, considered the foundation of U.S. Figure Skating, determines a skater’s competition level. Test sessions featuring panels of U.S. Figure Skating officials are hosted by clubs across the country and offer skaters the opportunity to highlight their abilities and advance to the next level. When a skater passes the final test in a given pathway, he or she earns the designation of U.S. Figure Skating Gold Medalist.

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Tests are available in moves in the field, free skating, pairs and ice dance, and a separate track is available for adults age 21 and older. As a skater advances, the tests become more difficult, so each test passed is a definite cause for celebration.