Kantetsu Ryu Karate Association
Advanced Belt Guidelines

The following guidelines may be modified as deemed appropriate by the governing board.   Meeting the basic requirements of a level does not automatically ensure any candidate will be considered for testing or promotion.

Nidan - Candidates must have at least eight years in the system with a minimum of three years at Shodan.  All Nidan candidates must actively contribute to and promote the system.  The Roman numeral II in gold lettering worn on the left side of the belt designates Nidan status.  In addition to the continual refinement of all previous requirements, Nidan candidates must know the following kata:

Sandan - Candidates must have at least twelve years in the system with a minimum of four at Nidan.  Sandan candidates must be well established within the system and the community.  Four letters of recommendation are required; two being from persons inside the system, and two from independent sources.  The Roman numeral III in gold lettering worn on the left side of the belt designates Sandan status.  In addition to the continual refinement of all previous requirements, Sandan candidates must know the following kata:

Yondan - Candidates must have at least fifteen years in the system, with a minimum of three years at Sandan.  Yondan candidates must also submit four letters of recommendation, with the same provisions as noted for Sandan.  Yondan candidates must submit a written essay regarding any topic related to the martial arts as dictated by the governing board.  The Roman numeral IV in gold lettering worn on the left side of the belt designates Yondan status.  Yondan candidates must have refined all previous requirements to a high level.  In addition, the following kata are required:

Honorary Ranks and Titles