All referees need to be evaluated by a USSoccer trained and certified assessor to receive feedback on their progress, along with recommendations on how they might improve to better serve their soccer clubs and state soccer associations.   This evaluation is called an “assessment” and it provides feedback to the referee for a specific match. All assessments provide feedback to the referee while some also require a referee to be rated.

Types of Assessments include:

Developmental and Guidance (D&G) Assessments are for feedback only and can be done for any level referee. This is official feedback on improvements you can make to help you get better games or upgrade.

Upgrade Assessments are required in order for a referee to upgrade to Grade 6 and above only. The referee’s performance is evaluated and rated during a match. Referees must pass Upgrade Assessments in order to move to the next higher grade.

Maintenance Assessments are required annually in order for a referee at Grade 6 or above only to retain that grade. The referee’s performance is evaluated and rated during a match. Referees must pass Maintenance Assessments in order to retain the current grade.

For a list of Grades and complete Grade requirements, click here.