The Examination regulations

Structured Progress
In Kyokushin Karate we measure progress by belt grades (Kyu). From the white beginner's belt to the 1st Kyu, every step has clear content: stances, fist and foot techniques, Kata and Kumite.
In the Shinzen Dojo Berlin, we examine according to the official regulations of the IKO World Zen-Kyokushin. Select a belt below to see the complete grading requirements.
More than just a belt
Examinations in Kyokushin Karate are not an end in themselves. They structure your path, measure your progress and confirm your skills – both physically and mentally.
Structured development
Each belt builds on the previous one – clearly defined techniques, kata and kumite for every grade.
Measurable progress
Examinations give you honest feedback and make your development visible – step by step.
International recognition
As a member of the IKO World Zen-Kyokushin, your grades are recognised worldwide.
Mental discipline
Preparation trains focus, perseverance and respect – values that go beyond the dojo.
Select your Belt grade
Each belt has its own page with all exam content – stances, techniques, kata, kumite, and conditioning. Click on a belt to see the full requirements.
0. Kyu
White belt
Entry level
View requirements10. Kyu
Orange belt
3 months of active karate training
View requirements9. Kyu
Orange belt
3 months of active karate training
View requirements8. Kyu
Blue belt
6 months of active karate training
View requirements7. Kyu
Blue belt
6 months of active karate training
View requirements6. Kyu
Yellow Belt
6 months of active karate training
View requirements5. Kyu
Yellow Belt
6 months of active karate training
View requirements4. Kyu
Green Belt
6 months of active karate training
View requirements3. Kyu
Green Belt
6 months of active karate training
View requirements2. Kyu
Brown Belt
1 year of active Karate training
View requirements1. Kyu
Brown Belt
1 year of active Karate training
View requirementsReady for your Kyu examination?
If you have mastered the examination content of your level and the waiting period has been fulfilled, register directly.
The path to Dan grade
Dan examinations are conducted exclusively under the authority of World Zen-Kyokushin representatives. From 4th Dan at international camps. 8th Dan and higher are determined by Soshi Hasegawa personally.
The intensity of the kumite is adjusted to the age.
Requirements from 1st Dan
Preparation time
Variable depending on Dan grade (min. 1 year)
Lead course
Lead karate course under supervision
Breaking test
Wood or brick breaking test
Minimum age
From 3rd Dan min. 35 years
Confirmation
From 18 years repetition for adult Shodan
Referee
Referee training
Association member
Active member in the IKO World Zen-Kyokushin
Trainer license
Instructor training
Course instruction
Course instruction in the Dojo
Required documents
- Completed black belt application form
- Passport photo (digital)
- Belt length in cm
- Name in Japanese (Katakana)
- Email for PayPal invoice
- Complete delivery address (certificate + belt)
Exam fee does not include travel and examiner costs. No guarantee for currency fluctuations.
Ready for the black belt?
Dan examinations require preparation, proof of participation and the recommendation by Sensei.
The Examination process
Six clearly defined steps – from the initial idea to the passed exam.
Registration
Submit exam application in good time – at least 2 weeks in advance.
Preparation
Intensive training of the required techniques and kata.
Training
Regularly 3× per week in the months before the exam.
Examination
Kihon, kata, and kumite in front of the examination board.
Result
Direct evaluation by the examiners – honest feedback.
Certificate
Official certificate and new belt – recognized worldwide.
Registration
Submit exam application in good time – at least 2 weeks in advance.
Preparation
Intensive training of the required techniques and kata.
Training
Regularly 3× per week in the months before the exam.
Examination
Kihon, kata, and kumite in front of the examination board.
Result
Direct evaluation by the examiners – honest feedback.
Certificate
Official certificate and new belt – recognized worldwide.
Targeted preparation?
The training planner creates a personalised weekly plan for you with the examination content of your Kyu grade — including Kata, Kihon and Kumite focus.
The examination fees
Fixed fees according to World Zen-Kyokushin regulations. Certificates are included in the price.
10th + 9th Kyu
30 €
Children & youth
35 €
Adults
8th + 7th Kyu
35 €
Children & youth
40 €
Adults
6th + 5th Kyu
40 €
Children & youth
45 €
Adults
4th + 3rd Kyu
45 €
Children & youth
50 €
Adults
2nd + 1st Kyu
50 €
Children & youth
55 €
Adults
On request
Fees vary according to Dan grade
Examination fees according to World Zen-Kyokushin regulations. Certificates are included in the examination fee. Adults pay a €5 surcharge per Kyu grade.
Required documents
- Passport photo (current)
- Examination application (for the first examination)
Now to the Register for grading
If you have mastered the examination content and the waiting period has been fulfilled, register directly for the examination.
Frequently asked questions
Get to know Kyokushin in training
Anyone who wants to get to know Kyokushin not just by reading about it but in practice can visit the Shinzen Dojo Berlin training sessions. Adults train in Berlin-Schöneberg, children and teenagers in Berlin-Steglitz.
Ready for your next examination?
If you have mastered the examination content and the waiting period has been fulfilled, register directly for the examination.
Ready for your examination?
Training tips, examination preparation and Kyokushin knowledge – curated for your path to the black belt.
No spam · Unsubscribe anytime · Consent can be revoked at any time
Read more

Staying fit in winter: Karate, nutrition and healthy training routines
Staying fit through the winter with Kyokushin Karate: At the Shinzen Dojo Berlin, regular exercise, a good warm-up and sufficient recovery go hand in hand. Read why dry clothes after training, a clean karate gi and well-maintained equipment are important. We also provide practical tips on broth, herbal tea with honey and a balanced diet. We explain when Vitamin C, Vitamin D or magnesium might be useful and why you should rather take a break from training if you have a cold.
Read more
IFK German Open 2026: A first competition that remains in memory Black belt
A white belt, his first tournament and straight away an experienced black belt as an opponent: For Victory Ogbonna, the IFK German Open 2026 became a special experience. In Naunhof, the 27-year-old from Shinzen Dojo Berlin competed for the first time in the Kumite +90 kg category. After regular fight time and extra time, he lost by Waza-ari, but showed fighting spirit and got back up after a hard head strike. A first competition, an important experience – and definitely not the last.
Read more
First World Zen-Kyokushin German Summer Camp 2026 at Werbellinsee
Three days of Kyokushin Karate, intensive training sessions, grading and true community: From August 28 to 30, 2026, the first World Zen-Kyokushin German Summer Camp took place at Werbellinsee. Karateka of different generations and grades trained Kihon, combinations, Kata and Kumite together. A review of a special weekend full of training, challenges and shared experiences.
Read more

