Typically a 6 Kyu system is used, going down from the 6^th Kyu beginner to the 1^st Kyu advanced student who is in final stage of training and preparing for advancement to Shodan or Black Belt. Advancement for Dan grades (Black Belts) starts at Shodan progressing upward to 6^th Dan.

The class sensei decides if students will wear colored belts or if all students will wear either white or black belts.  However, the normal progression of belt are:

6^th Kyu  - White Belt

5^th Kyu  - Yellow Belt

4^th Kyu  -  Orange Belt

3^rd Kyu  -  Green Belt

2^nd Kyu  -  Blue Belt

1^st Kyu  -  Brown Belt

Shodan and above  -  Black Belt

The use of colored belts provides the students with visible evidence of their advancement. Perhaps more importantly it advises other people on the mats about the capabilities of the person they are working with.

Lower Kyu gradings are usually conducted informally as soon as the instructor(s) observe the student to be ready for advancement. Normally the Sensei and his assistants decide to watch a student through a class and if they all agree they present the new grade at the end of the class. Typically after the student demonstrates their capabilities for the rest of the class.

1^st Kyu and Dan Grades are always conducted as formal gradings. A qualified panel of Senior Dan Grades is appointed and the student is asked to demonstrate approximately 40-50 techniques, including defenses against weapons, and multiple attackers. Formal gradings are normally conducted two times a year and are open to the public.

Grading Pictures