How to Get Started in the National Qualifying Series (NQS)A Simple Parent Guide by Miami FSC
- Janet Johnson
- Apr 3
- 2 min read
If your skater is ready to move beyond local competitions, the U.S. Figure Skating National Qualifying Series (NQS) is the next exciting step.
It may sound complicated at first — but don’t worry. Once you understand the process, it’s very manageable.
Here’s everything you need to know
Who Can Compete in NQS?
For the 2026–27 season, the National Qualifying Series includes:
Singles (Championship Track):
Preliminary (NEW for NQS pathway)
Pre-Juvenile (NEW for NQS pathway)
Juvenile
Intermediate
Novice
Junior
Senior
This is a big update — younger skaters now have a direct path into the qualifying system
Pairs & Ice Dance:
Juvenile
Intermediate
Novice
Junior
Senior
Important for Parents:
Not every skater should enter NQS right away — your coach will guide you on when the timing is right.
Step 1: Start with the USFS Webinar (Don’t Skip This!)
Before you register, U.S. Figure Skating offers free webinars for families:
April 8 – First-time families
April 9 – Returning families
8:00 PM ET
You’ll learn:
How NQS works
How to choose competitions
How EMS registration works
What to expect during the season
Step 2: Choose the Right Competitions
The NQS season runs July through October, with Finals in November.
Work with your coach to:
Confirm your skater’s level
Review the NQS schedule
Select the best competitions
This should always be a coach-led decision
Step 3: Register in EMS
All NQS events are registered through EMS (Event Management System):
Log into U.S. Figure Skating
Click EMS
Go to Competition Registration
Select Qualifying
Choose your event and register
Register early — don’t wait!
Parent Timeline (Quick View)
February–April: Plan + webinar
Spring: Register in EMS
July–October: Compete
November: NQS Finals
Pro Tip
Let your coach pick the events
You manage deadlines, registration, and travel
That’s the winning combo.
Final Thought
The NQS is an exciting step in your skater’s journey. It may feel overwhelming at first — but once you go through it once, it becomes much easier.
We’re here to help every step of the way.
Questions? Message us anytime!
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