Adult and Teen Testing

Testing is available to students near the end of each quarter of practice. However, students may have opportunities to test in the middle of a quarter if they are ready. We emphasize moving forward with good practice rather than testing.

Adults test starting with 6th kyu, and continuing through until they reach 1st kyu. Students then test for shodan, first degree black belt. Tests are held as a measure of what the student has learned since the last test, and as a community celebration of each student's growing knowledge and skill. The value of rank is downplayed at One World as we prefer to simply value each others' achievements.

For students in grades 6-8, the option is given to either test under the requirements for children, or to test as adults. Most kids in this age group pick the chilren's requirements as they are less challenging and the students receive colored belts. As young students move into ninth grade, or at age 14, they test into the adult ranking system at a level which is commensurate with their skills.

Minimal fees are assessed for testing. These fees are used strictly to cover the costs of colored belt purchases and to provide scholarship for students needing help to attend camps and seminars. It is important for students to understand that they receive the gift of the expertise of others who began training before them, which is very integral to a successful test. Without skillful partners, a good test is nearly impossible. Supporting scholarship is a way for testing students to give back to the community.