USNF Standards for Dan Examinations

 

 

 

Grading Basis

1st Test

2nd Test

Minimum Age

Waiting Period

Basics

Waza

Match

Lead Practice

Written

Exam

Shodan

People who have mastered basic techniques and how to use them in a match

·     Jo-ge buri

·     Datotsu:

o   Men, Sokumen, Sune, Do

Shikake-Oji

#1 thru #5

·     Uchikaeshi

·     Kakari Geiko

·     Gokaku Geiko

 

Yes

13 years

(Junior High School and up)

Should have
1 kyu

2 dan

People who can see the chances for striking and have forceful techniques

·     Happo buri

·     Datotsu:

o   Men, Sokumen, Sune, Do, Kote

Shikake-Oji

#1 thru #8

·     Uchikaeshi

·     Kakari Geiko

·     Gokaku Geiko

 

Yes

16 years

(High School and up)

At least 1 year after Shodan

3 dan

People who have mastered match methods and can instruct beginners

·     Happo buri

·     All strikes

Shikake-Oji

#1 thru #8

·     Uchikaeshi

·     Hikitate Geiko

·     Shiai

Yes

Yes

19 years

At least 2 years after 2 dan

4 dan

People who have mastered advanced techniques, and possess the ability to referee

·     Happo buri

·     All strikes

Shikake-Oji

#1 thru #8

All Japan Kata

#1 thru #5

·     Uchikaeshi

·     Hikitate Geiko

·     Shiai

·     Referee*

Yes

Yes

22 years

At least 3 years after 3 dan

5 dan

People who understand the logic of techniques, and who are honest and steadfast

·     Happo buri

·     All strikes

Shikake-Oji

#1 thru #8

All Japan Kata

#1 thru #7

·     Uchikaeshi

·     Hikitate Geiko

·     Shiai

·     Referee*

Yes

Yes

25 years

At least 3 years after 4 dan

 

* Refereeing in the 4 dan and 5 dan test is not required for candidates already possessing Official Referee Certification