How long is a figure skating program?
I · Intermediate · Competition and scoring · 1 of 8A short program lasts 2 minutes 40 seconds and senior free skating 4 minutes, with 10 seconds allowed either way. A skater must take the starting position within 30 seconds of being called. Going outside the time window costs a point for every 5 seconds. Elements started after the allowed time earn nothing.
How it works
- Short program: 2 minutes 40 seconds, senior and junior.
- Free skating: 4 minutes for seniors, 3 minutes 30 for juniors.
- Rhythm dance: 2 minutes 50 seconds; free dance 4 minutes (3 minutes 30 junior).
- Allowance: 10 seconds either way.
- Timing: from the first movement to a complete stop.
- Outside the window: minus 1.0 for each 5 seconds or part of it.
- Late elements: started after the time plus 10 seconds, they have no value.
- Call to start: 30 seconds to take position; after 60 the skater is withdrawn.
The glossary has the program duration, the late start, the short program, the free skate, the deduction and the program.
Tricky cases
A skater takes 45 seconds to reach their position. What happens?
A late-start deduction of 1.0, since they were between 1 and 30 seconds late.
A program finishes 30 seconds short. Is it scored?
No. A program 30 seconds or more under the required range gets no marks.
A jump is started after the time runs out. Does it count?
Not if it starts after the required time plus 10 seconds.
When does the clock start?
When the skater (either partner in pairs or dance) begins to move.
Why the rule exists
A fixed time puts everyone on the same stage, so more elements cannot be squeezed in by skating longer. The call-to-start limit keeps the event on schedule.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Senior free skating | 4 minutes | ISU 502 |
| Junior free skating | 3 minutes 30 | ISU 502 |
| Pattern dance | Final pose within 20 seconds of the last set step | ISU 707 |
From the rule book
ISU, Sports Rules: Single & Pair Skating and Ice Dance (as of 12 June 2026), rules 350, 353 (1)(n) and 502. Checked 14 October 2026. Official documents: the ISU Sports Rules and the season's ISU Communications.