Grading Rules

Kyu Gradings up to 3rd Kyu may be taken every three months, providing the student is training regularly a minimum of two times per week.

Six months training is necessary for students attempting 2nd Kyu and 1st Kyu with a regular and solid record of training at least twice per week.
A full 1st Kyu student must be training regularly at least two times per week for at least six months before Shodan can be attempted.

1st to 2nd Dan, regular training for a minimum of 2 years.
2nd to 3rd Dan, regular training for a minimum of 3 years.
3rd to 4th Dan, regular training for a minimum of 4 years.
4th to 5th Dan, regular training for a minimum of 5 years.
5th to 6th Dan, regular training for a minimum of 6 years.
6th to 7th Dan, regular training for a minimum of 7 years.
7th to 8th Dan, regular training for a minimum of 8 years

You may only attempt grading examinations if you have fulfilled the training requirements and your licence is up to date.

A temporary grade or Kari grade is in effect a half grade.

Very occasionally the examiner will see an exceptional improvement in a student and invite the student to attempt a double grading. This is however a rare event.


The minimum age for attempting Junior Shodan is 10 years.

The minimum age for attempting Junior Nidan is 14 years.

The minimum age for attempting Sandan is 21 years.