Regular gradings take place within the clubs for kyu grades (white belt - brown belt) and Black belt gradings are held once a year

 Note
 Minimum time between kyu grades (white – Brown belt) = 3 months
 Minimum time between Brown & Black belt   = 12 months

The Goshinkwai grading system follows a coloured belt system as follows:

 BeltColour    Grade

 Red                Beginner
 White             6th Kyu
 Yellow            5th Kyu
 Orange          4th Kyu
 Green             3rd Kyu
 Blue               2nd Kyu
 Brown            1st Kyu
 Black              1st Dan
 2 strips  2nd Dan
 3 strips  3rd Dan
 4 strips  4th Dan

Red/white blocked  5th Dan (Graded on merit)

Introduction

There is no formal Grading Syllabus within the Goshinkwai Ryu, however the following is a guideline of techniques that should be attained during the students training.  This, however, does not prevent other techniques being taught to any student or to the teaching of fighting technique (Shinken) as teaching techniques will differ between Dojo’s (clubs).

Note The students commitment to training eg. Amount of time served, and focused approach also contributes to the overall grading and grades can be awarded on these merits alone.

Posture
Defensive stances
Moving into defence posture from directional attacks
Locking technique
Kicking technique
Take down technique

Striking technique
Releasing technique
Breaking of balance
Wrist locks. Left and right
Front snap-kick
Side stamping kick
Take down from locking technique
Take down from front snap-kick ie. Nose rip
Strike to jaw line-using edge of hand
Chop to head region
Escaping from holds
Demonstration of breaking opponents (uke) balance
Throwing technique
Punching technique
Blocking technique
Striking technique 
Parry Technique
Elbow Techniques

Palm of hand blow   (Ear clap)
Sweeping kick to opponents shin
Release from wrist hold
Choking technique
Strangle technique

Eye technique
Breath control
Head twists & Samurai head twist
Strikes using the knee 
Attacking opponents eyes

Demonstration of techniques, without injury or unnecessary contact of the training partner
Foot sweeps  (De ashi harai)
 Finger flick to opponent’s eyes
Straight finger jab to opponents throat
 

For Dan Grades

As previous grades

Multiple atemi

Multiple attacks

 Control

 Katsui

 Mental ability

 Instructional technique  Knowledge of previous grades

Demonstration of techniques, without injury/unnecessary contact of the opponent

 Revival techniques, including:-
 Obstructed breathing
 Groin kicks
 Back strain
 Nose bleeds
 Headache
 Determination, focus and "aggression"
Instruction of techniques and adaptation of technique to suit individual students.