Grading

​​Juniors and Seniors​

As students progress in karate, they will attempt to move to the next level or "grade". Each grade is represented by different colored belts, starting with white and going through to black belt. Black belt is the sign of an accomplished student.

If students train hard they can achieve provisional black belt in 4 to 5 years. There are also many degrees of black belt, ranging up to 10th Dan, which only a handful of people have ever achieved. In Unsu Kai Karate, provisional black belt is only awarded to students aged 11 or older.

​Students are graded on their technique, attitude, progression and also the performance of formal exercises such as Kata. The times listed here are only a guideline, as each person progresses through karate at their own pace.

​For more in depth information about grading, and to set a date for your first grading (white belt) talk to your class instructor.

Grading events

We hold Beginner & Intermediate Belt Gradings generally 4 times a year, once each school Term, and Advanced Belts twice a year; mid & end of year. Black belt Gradings are typically once or twice a year, but are as required and not on a fixed schedule.

Grading is on an invitation basis only.

To be invited to grade you must:

• Have met the minimum classes since your last grading (or be expected to meet by the Grading day),

• Been training consistently,

• Shown proper dedication to your training within your classes; including focus, effort and good spirit,

• Demonstrated knowledge and proficiency of your kata to your instructors. Importantly, this includes not just your next grading kata, but also maintenance of prior kata as well.

Curriculum