Aikido Shobukai Burnaby follows the same ranking system as the Yoshinkan Aikido Hombu Dojo (headquarters dojo) in Tokyo.  Students start with a white belt, then progress through six tests spanning 10 levels before finally testing for a black belt (called Shodan or ‘first step’).  Each pre-black belt level is called a Kyu (pronounced “Q”) and progresses from 10th Kyu up to 1st Kyu.  Students wear a white belt from 10th Kyu to 4th Kyu; a brown belt is granted from 3rd Kyu to 1st Kyu. 

From Shodan (1st degree), you progress to Nidan (2nd degree), and then Sandan (3rd degree) up to 10th dan.  Once you attain the level of Shodan, your rank will be registered with the Hombu Dojo, and you will receive an official certificate (written in Japanese) from the Hombu.

When Sensei feels you are ready to test, he will advise you of your test date (usually 2-4 weeks in advance); asking to be tested is considered bad etiquette.