USA-TKJ NATIONAL RANK SYSTEM

In order to establish an adequate progressive achievement system for junior and senior age Judoka, the Ten Class or "Kyu" (for Juniors), the Seven Class or "Kyu" (for Seniors) and the Ten Degree or "Dan" ranks are provided in the United States of America Traditional Kodokan Judo (USA-TKJ) Rank System.

Mudansha Levels (below Black Belt)

RANK - BELT COLOR

For Juniors, 15 years & below -
New Student, White Belt - Tenth Class Rank (Jukyu)
Yellow Belt - Ninth Class Rank (Kukyu)
Orange Belt - Eighth Class Rank (Hachikyu)
Blue Belt - Seventh Class Rank (Shichikyu)
Blue Belt - Sixth Class Rank (Rokyu)
Green Belt - Fifth Class Rank (Gokyu)
Green Belt - Fourth Class Rank (Yonkyu)
Purple Belt - Third Class Rank (Sankyu)
Purple Belt - Second Class Rank (Nikyu)
Brown Belt - First Class (Ikkyu)

NOTE: The above Belt Colors are the recommended USJJF Mudansha Belt Colors. Sensei may vary these lower grade belt colors in accordance with individual Dojo traditions.

For Seniors, 16 years & above -
New Student, White Belt - Seventh Class Rank (Shichikyu)
Yellow Belt - Sixth Class Rank (Rokkyu)
Orange Belt - Fifth Class Rank (Gokyu)
Green Belt - Fourth Class Rank (Yonkyu)
Blue Belt - Third Class Rank (Sankyu)
Purple Belt - Second Class Rank (Nikyu)
Brown Belt - First Class (Ikkyu)

Yudansha Levels (Black Belt)

 RANK - BELT COLOR

First Degree (Shodan) - Black Belt
Second Degree (Nidan) - Black Belt
Third Degree (Sandan) - Black Belt
Fourth Degree (Yondan) - Black Belt
Fifth Degree (Godan) - Black Belt
Sixth Degree (Rokudan) - Black Belt or Red & White Belt
Seventh Degree (Shichidan) - Black Belt or Red & White Belt
Eight Degree (Hachidan) - Black Belt or Red & Black Belt
Ninth Degree (Kudan) - Black Belt or Red Belt
Tenth Degree (Judan) - Black Belt or Red Belt