Dan testing requirements 3-10
 
3rd Dan Kihon: Foundational techniques specified by examiner Kata: Student’s favorite Kata Kumite: Jiyu Kumite * Examiners test for understanding and proficiency in the standard techniques of karate. 4th Dan Kihon: Foundational techniques specified by examiner Kata: Student’s favorite Kata; also Sentei Kata (from Heian Shodan to Tekki Shodan) specified by examiner Kumite: Jiyu Kumite * Examiners test for understanding and mastery of all karate techniques; for an understanding of the philosophy of karate; for an ability to apply these fundamentals and functional aspects in practice; and for an ability to instruct 5th Dan Kata: Student’s favorite Kata; also Sentei Kata (from Heian Shodan to Tekki Shodan) specified by examiner Kumite: Jiyu Kumite General: Question and Answer Session * Examiners test for high-level mastery of karate techniques, and the ability to apply technique in one’s own unique way 6th Dan Kata: Student’s favorite Kata Kumite: Jiyu Kumite General: Question and Answer Session; Research Dissertation (about techniques) * Must demonstrate high-level mastery of both the physical and mental aspects of karate training 7th Dan Kata: Student’s favorite Kata Kumite: Jiyu Kumite General: Question and Answer Session; Research Dissertation (about techniques) * Must demonstrate extensive, matured mastery of both the physical and mental aspects of karate training 8th, 9th, 10th Dan Recommendation of Instructors Committee * Must demonstrate total mastery of the secrets of karate, both physical and mental, and show an extraordinary level of spiritual development