Several different kinds of tests ar used in the assessment of children with developmental difficulties. Achievement tests measure the extent to which a child has acquired certain information or mastered certain skills. Criterion-referenced tests measure a specific level of performance or a specific degree of mastery. Psychometric tests measure a child's psychological and other developmental traits or abilities. Readiness tests measure the extent to which a child has acquired certain skills for successfully undertaking some new learning activity. Screening tests identify children who are at risk of health problems, developmental problems, and/or disabling conditions. Standardized tests obtain a systematic sample of a child's performance under prescribed conditions, which is then scored according to definite rules, allowing professionals to compare the child's performance to that of other children who have taken the same test.
A skater's skill and progress in basic figure skating and in freestyle skating is measured by taking tests administered by the USFSA or the CFSA. These consist of a series of 12 elementary tests plus a series of more advanced tests for singles, pairs and dance. The final gold medal test requires many years of training to complete. Skaters compete at levels according to test level proficiencies.