As the 2026 Winter Olympic Games approach, the excitement surrounding one of its hallmark events, figure skating, continues to grow. Renowned for its perfect blend of technical precision and artistic expression, figure skating captivates audiences worldwide. A common question arises: how is scoring conducted in figure skating, and what constitutes a “perfect” score in this sport?
Under the current International Judging System (IJS), which is employed at major international competitions, there is no definitive “perfect score.” Instead, skaters earn cumulative points that are based on the difficulty and execution of each element in their routines, as well as their overall presentation. Every jump, spin, and sequence carries a specific base value, indicative of its complexity. Judges then apply a Grade of Execution (GOE) ranging from -5 to +5 to refine these scores, adding or subtracting from the base value. To ensure fairness, the system eliminates the highest and lowest GOEs before averaging the remaining scores.
Alongside the technical elements, skaters are evaluated on three program components: composition, presentation, and skating skills. Each of these aspects is rated on a scale of 0.25 to 10. Similar to the GOE process, the highest and lowest scores in these categories are also discarded before averaging. Ultimately, these two cumulative scores are added together to produce a segment score, which encompasses both the short program and the free skate or dance, culminating in the final competition score.
The previous scoring methodology, known as the 6.0 system, allowed for an actual perfect score of 6.0 but was retired from Olympic competition in 2004. Although it remains in use at some local and beginner U.S. Figure Skating events, the 6.0 system posed challenges due to its reliance on subjective comparisons without assessing individual elements. In contrast, the IJS enables judges to focus on the distinct qualities of each performance without depending on memory to compare arbitrary placements.
With this advanced and transparent scoring system, skaters and fans alike can appreciate the intricate details that contribute to performance evaluations. As the world’s top 142 skaters prepare to showcase their skills in Italy, understanding this scoring framework enhances the viewing experience and adds depth to the appreciation of figure skating as a competitive sport. As athletes aim for their best performances, the journey towards excellence in figure skating continues to inspire audiences around the globe.