2026-2027 STAR Event & Competition Updates (Freeskate and Pattern dance)

STAR 1-Gold Freeskate and short programs: The 2026-2027 STAR Quick Reference Guide for Freeskate and Ice Dance are now available.

Notable updates:

Program times for STAR 2-5 are now a maximum time and not +/- 10 seconds. STAR 5 program length has been increased to a maximum of 2:40 and this will allow skaters to keep their STAR 4 program length or have a program length that allows for movement into Juvenile.

Program Content:

STAR 2: Skaters will now have an option between 1W+1T or 1W+1Lo.

STAR 3 and STAR 4:

1Lo+1Lo is no longer mandatory. The turn sequence from STAR 2 is now also included in STAR 3 programs.

STAR 4 Spin options: SSp, CSp, BUSP

STAR 5 and higher:

An artistic spin has been added to STAR 5 to allow for skaters to develop further positions within their spins without a penalty for missing a defined basic position. Skaters are provided with options of step sequences or choreographic sequences at STAR 5 and higher. Coaches can determine which option is best developmentally for their athlete. STAR 5 and higher will now be judged with 3 PC’s. A new Gold short program has been added for the upcoming season.

Ice Dance Categories

The pattern dances for the next four seasons are being provided in the 2026-2030 STAR Dance Quick Reference Guide. This guide includes both partnered and solo pattern dances.

Notable updates: The STAR10/Gold and Diamond pattern dance assessment prerequisite has been revised.

*The Free Dance and Rhythm Dance information will be coming in April