Japan karate Association / World Federation
Ranks and Grades
Our ranks and grades Match JKA Japan Head quarter
However, there is still color differences between some regions.
but the soul system of the requirements almost the same.
| Rank | Color | Requirements
|
| 10th Kyu | White | 1 Month Training |
| 9th Kyu | Red | 2 Months Training (kids level) |
| 8th Kyu | Yellow | Heian Shodan + Kihon + Gohan Kumite |
| 7th Kyu | Orange | Heian Nidan + Kihon + Gohan Kumite |
| 6th Kyu | Green | Heian Sandan + Kihon + Ippon Kumite |
| 5th Kyu | Blue | Heian Yondan + Kihon + Ippon Kumite |
| 4th Kyu | Purple | Heian Godan + Kihon + Ippon Kumite |
| 3rd Kyu | Brown | Tekki Shodan + Kihon + Ippon Kumite |
| 2nd Kyu | Brown | Bassai Dai + Kihon + Ippon Kumite |
| 1st Kyu | Brown | KankuDai + Kihon + Jiyu Ippon Kumite |
| 1st Dan | Black |
Enpi + Jion + Kihon + Jiyu Kumite |
| 2nd Dan | Black |
Jitte + KanKuSho + GanKaKu + BassaiSho + Kihon + Jiyu Kumite |
| 3rd Dan | Black |
NijuShiho+GojuShihoSho+Sochin+Hangetsu + Kihon + Jiyu Kumite |
|
DAN 4th to 10th |
Black | ANY and ALL |
What is the belt exam?
The more experienced you are, the farther you get. For every level you achieve you may apply for your next belt.
The belt exam is divided into 3 parts: Kihon, Kata, and Kumite.
Kihon- basic techniques
Kata- forms
Kumite- sparring
When can I apply for the next exam ?
There should be a minimum period of 3 months between each Kyu exam.
There should be a minimum period of 6 months to 1 year between 1st Kyu and First Black belt (ShoDan).
There should be a minimum period of 1 year between 1st black belt (Shodan) and second black belt (Nidan)
There should be a minimum period of 2 years between 2nd black belt (NiDan) and the third black belt (SanDan)
What is my exam techniques? what is required ?
All explained in the chart above, however
Here is a link from Tokyo Head Office, it has the techniques that you are required to qualify in your exam.
For Dan (black) or Kyu (color) ranking requirements (Black belts) - posted from JKA HQ Please click here.
However, This is the minimum requirements for your exams, JKA Examiners, may add or modify them.
What is the results of the exam?
This is the international and Japanese way of examination results.
- Pass : You pass and get ready for more practice and for your next grade.
- ReExam : You re-exam a particular part of the exam after 4-6 months.
- Faild : You will have to repeat the exam in full after 4-6 months
Belt recognizing ?
The following are JKA HQ rules:
We do recognize your belt, if it’s JKA or from any national federation under WKF umbrella.
Any private Karate organizations, clubs, groups or none JKA or WKF certificates is not recognize at all.
You have to register your NONE JKA belt with JKA - after a 6 months waiting period or maybe re-exam.
Recognition is up to 3rd DAN only, please call and discuss with us.
What is the Fees for any Rank, grade or qualification ?
Please read the Fees page for any expected fees you may pay.
Notes
ONLY Shotokan Karate art is recognized. We don't recognize any non-national federations’ belts such as private clubs,
dojos, or groups who are not registered or affiliated internationally under any approved federations. (JKA or WKF)
You can still apply for our exams and register with us.