Dan Grade
The Dan Grade system is a distinctive feature of judo with promotion to different ranks based on a variety of different pathways and achievements.
Obtaining a Dan Grade is one of the highest qualifications available to individuals involved in the sport of judo. Dan Grades are typically indicated by a black belt, with higher Dan grades representing more advanced levels of grading.
FAQs
The Dan Grade system is aimed judoka who are 15 years of age and older who have moved on from completing the Kyu Grades system.
Judoka test their ability, by entering for an examination within the Dan Grade system. For that examination players are required to demonstrate superiority over a cross-section of other players competing at the same level. This ensures that successive Dan Grades up to 5th Dan are populated by increasingly skilful players.
For grades higher than 5th Dan judoka wishing to move up a grade must apply to British Judo. A decision is then made on their application by the British Judo Board of Directors.
There are 10 different grades contained within the Grades system, which represented by 3 different coloured belts.
Dan Grade Register
The Dan Grade Register lists all Dan Grade members and Life Members of the British Judo Association.
You are able to search the register by name, club or area.
Below are the resources for the Modernised Dan Grade Syllabus, which launches on 1st January 2026.
If you are looking for the resources for the existing Dan Grade Syllabus, which remains in effect until 31st December 2025, then please click here
Downloadable Materials (For use from 1st Jan 2026)
Competitive Dan Grade Scheme Assessment Guide – for Players and Coaches
Candidate Supplementary Exam Sheet – for Players & Coaches
Guide for Dan Grade Evaluation of Competitive Skills and Technical Exam
(NOTE: Some of the features of the editable Dan grade skills examination forms may not function properly when opened in some online PDF viewers. We recommend downloading the forms first before completing them.)
Competitive 1st Dan Grade Skills Examination
Competitive 2nd Dan Grade Skills Examination
Competitive 3rd Dan Grade Skills Examination
Competitive 4th Dan Grade Skills Examination
Competitive 5th Dan Grade Skills Examination
Dan Grading Requirements
Collecting Dan Grading Points
Links to Kodokan 100 Videos
Technical Dan Grade Scheme Assessment Guide – for Players & Coaches
Candidate Supplementary Exam Sheet – for Players & Coaches
Technical Dan Grade Application Form
Guide for Dan Grade Evaluation of Competitive Skills and Technical Exam
(NOTE: Some of the features of the editable Dan grade skills examination forms may not function properly when opened in some online PDF viewers. We recommend downloading the forms first before completing them.)
