Testing Guidelines

Minimum Time Limit between Examinations

7th Kyu to 4th Kyu
Belt tests may be taken at three month intervals.

3rd Kyu to 1st Kyu
Belt Tests may be taken at six month intervals

1st Kyu to Shodan
Students should have trained constantly for a minimum of one year from the date of obtaining the grade of 1st Kyu. It is expected that the student must have trained for at least three years continuously and be over 14 years of age.

Shodan to Nidan
Students should have trained constantly for a minimum of two years from the date of obtaining the grade of Shodan and be over 18 years of age.

Nidan to Sandan
Students should have trained constantly for a minimum of three years from the date of obtaining the grade of Nidan.

Sandan to Yondan
Minimum of four years should have elapsed since the date of obtaining the grade of Sandan. This grade is on the recommendation of a senior ranking member.

Nomenclature
Shodan to Nidan – Senpai

Sandan to Yondan – Sensei

Godan to Nanadan – Shihan

Hachidan – Hanshi

Each golden stripe on the black belt indicates Dan grade.