Download A.K.I. Grading Syllabus

General Pre-requisites for Gradings

1. Annual membership fees and keiko fees must be up to date.
2. Propective students must know the dojo and grading etiquette (correct bowing sequence, tidy keikogi, respectful behaviour, willingness to clean the dojo etc).
3. They must also be proficient with the technical syllabus and associated Japanese terminology for the attacks and techniques required for the grade being attempted. For each particular grade, emphasis will be placed on the techniques listed, plus a selection from previous grades.
4. An application form (Appendix 1) is to be submitted to the grading panel by the studentﾕs instructor in advance of the test, demonstrating that the required number of keiko, length of time between grades and number of gasshuku for the grade being attempted.have each been satisified. Grading fees (Appendix 2) should also be paid in advance of the test and these are non-refundable in the event the student is unsuccessful. NB: Dispensation can be given by the panel for required length of time, number of keiko, and attendance at camps for talented people who join from other Aikido groups, and in rare cases of exceptional talent. Dispensation may also be given for poor attendance at camps by students living in remote areas.
5. Students must be willing to accept the judgement of the grading panel and teachers with regard to gradings. Responsibility for the quality of a test is to be taken by the student being tested and their teacher.
6. In the case of gradings for shodan and above, notice should be given to the grading panel 9 to 12 months before the test by the studentﾕs instructor. The panel requires time to get to know the student in order to judge properly. Students being graded to shodan and above should also be known to Takeda Shihan or the daisenpai, wherever possible.
Furthermore, as dan gradings are registered with Aikikai Honbu Dojo in Tokyo, special paperwork is required. These forms must be completed and submitted to the grading panel along with the grading fee in Japanese yen one month prior to the test.
7. Tests for sandan and above are taken with Takeda Shihan at the A.K.I. Honbu Dojo in Yokohama, Japan.

Aikido Kenkyukai International Australia Grading Protocol

1. Make sure you are well presented and that your dogi is clean.
2. Sit quietly and attentively in seiza while watching others test.
3. When your name is called, more forward swiftly and line up in seiza, facing the shomen.
4. At the panelﾕs instruction, bow to the shomen (the front of the dojo). Turn and bow to the panel, then turn to face your uke.
5. Listen carefully and attentively to instructions. Once the first technique has been called, bow to your uke and say, "onegai shimasu".
6. Each technique should be performed omote (front version) on the right and left, then ura (rear version) on the right and left and finished with osae (a pin), wherever possible.
7. Tests should be sharp, energetic and vigorous while the mind remains calm. Do your best and show your spirit - this is most important.
8. Upon completion of the test and at the panelﾕs instruction, bow to your uke and say, ﾒarigato gozaimashitaﾓ. Then turn and bow to the panel, and finally to the shomen.
9. Move swiftly back to the edge of the mat and sit in seiza.

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