American Karate Academy 

 

Rank Testing

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Approach and Methodology

We employ a stripe advancement method to meticulously monitor a student's progress through each rank. Each stripe symbolizes one-fourth of their training for that specific belt level. Upon acquiring four black stripes on their belt, the student has mastered the material for that rank. Following a few additional classes dedicated to practice and perfecting the material, the student receives an invitation to an upcoming test.

To progress, students must undergo testing on the learned material, showcasing significant improvement in previous skills and demonstrating the maturity to handle more sophisticated content.

All testing, except for Blue Belt and above, takes place in the classroom at the instructor's discretion.

For Blue Belt and above, testing usually occurs on Saturdays or Sundays and is scheduled individually with Master Clark.

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Testing Fees

Testing sessions are conducted in a format resembling a regular class to ensure that students do not feel overwhelmed. However, attending a testing session does not guarantee automatic advancement; students must actively perform and meet all challenges to progress.

A testing fee is applicable to all tests. We provide students with two opportunities to pass the test without incurring a second testing fee. As students advance, testing fees increase proportionately due to the inclusion of more material in the examination. Additionally, the testing fees cover the cost of any weapons required for training in the next rank, if applicable.

This approach underscores our commitment to maintaining standards and ensuring that students demonstrate proficiency and readiness for advancement in their martial arts journey.

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Testing belts and costs are as follows:

 

Orange (children only): $45.00

Gold and Gold/Black: $55.00

Green and Green/Black: $65.00 (Nun-Chaku included with Green Belt test fee)

Brown and Brown/Black: $75.00 (Escrima Sticks included with Brown Belt test fee)

Red and Red/Black: $85.00 (Jo Staff included with Red Belt test fee)

Blue: $95.00 (Kamas included with Blue Belt test fee)

Black 1st Dan: $225.00 (Knife and sword included with Black Belt test fee)

Black 2nd Dan $450.00

Black 3rd Dan $625.00

Black 4th Dan $975.00

Black 5th Dan $1,550.00

 

Please refer to the Belt Requirement Spreadsheet to learn what you need to know for each belt level.  This will help you in your advancement to the next level of training.

 

 

TESTING FEES ARE DUE AT THE TIME OF TESTING.

THEY CAN BE PAID AHEAD OF TIME OR THE NIGHT OF TESTING.

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