qualifying

A test that must be passed to be eligible for a higher level of study or a professional certification.

A stage of a competition that determines who is eligible to compete in the main event.

A preliminary race or round in a competition where winners advance to the next stage.

An entire competition held to select participants for a more prestigious, final event.

A minimum level of performance required to be eligible to compete.

A position or place in a major competition that is earned through preliminary events.