Pre-Gold Singles Test
- Level
- 7 of 8
- Formerly
- Junior free skate
- Program length
- 3:40 maximum
- Competition level
- Junior
The Pre-Gold singles test was the Junior free skate test until July 2023. It asks for four different double jumps, one of which must be one of the hardest doubles: a double flip, double Lutz or double Axel. The combination spin must go through all three basic positions: upright, sit and camel.
The judges expect a performance that is very good in all respects, focused on power, flow, edge quality, line and footwork control, with a well-built program skated to the music with rhythm and expression across the full ice.
Passing it, with the Pre-Gold skating skills test, qualifies a skater for Junior competitions.
What's on the test
Skated as a program to music of the skater's choice (vocal music is allowed).
Jumps
Six jump elements, including at least:
- One single Axel
- Four different double jumps, one of which must be a double flip, double Lutz or double Axel
- One two-jump combination in which both jumps have at least two rotations
- Up to three jump combinations, or two combinations and one jump sequence; each is limited to two jumps, except one may have three.
- Extra jumps may be added without penalty; jumps with more rotations count toward the requirements.
- No jump may be included more than twice.
Spins
Three spins with different IJS codes:
- One combination spin, with or without a change of foot: at least 10 revolutions, in all three basic positions with at least 2 revolutions in each; may have a flying entry
- One spin in one position: at least 6 revolutions; may change feet; may have a flying entry
- One choreographic spin: at least 3 consecutive revolutions on one or two blades; may change feet; may have a flying entry.
Sequence
- One choreographic sequence: at least two different movements, such as spirals or spread eagles, linked by steps and turns. The pattern is free but it must be clearly visible, and no jumps or spins may be included in it.
Before you can take it
How it is marked
Each judge marks elements, skating and program from −3 to +3, where 0 is the passing average for this level. A judge's total decides their result: pass 0 to 3, honors 4 to 6, distinction 7 to 9. A majority of the judges must pass the skater.
Up to two different elements may be reskated if needed, and extra elements may be added without penalty. Going over the time limit costs one point for every 10 seconds, or part of 10 seconds, over.
Source: 2026-27 Singles Test Requirements chart (version 1.0, 02/27/26); U.S. Figure Skating 2026-27 Rulebook. Requirements change from season to season, so check with your coach or club test chair before you test.