Do you have to pay for Gradings?

[indigo0086]

I am soon to be statrting kendo/iado, and I was wondering where do you get graded, and how much do you usually pay for gradings, if any. I remember when I was a kid in karate days, I didn't have to pay for anything :smiley: but I knew that my parents did whenever I needed a new belt.

[Ralutin]

I am soon to be statrting kendo/iado, and I was wondering where do you get graded, and how much do you usually pay for gradings, if any. I remember when I was a kid in karate days, I didn't have to pay for anything :smiley: but I knew that my parents did whenever I needed a new belt.

Hi,

Here in the U.S., each regional kendo federation has their own grading schedule, usually once or even twice a year and I believe you'd be paying up to $50, depending on your age and rank. You'll also have to pay for your rank certificate or menjo, which is also a sliding scale ($10-$500) based on the rank you achieve. An extra $10 is tacked on if you want your certificate written in Japanese. Iaido rankings would generally be handled in the same manner, if the school is affiliated with your kendo federation and the AUSKF.

Since you have yet to start your kendo/iaido training, I wouldn't worry about your promotional exams until your sensei/head instructor gives you permission to do so. Also, if/when you do join your kendo dojo, any information regarding promotional exams will be relayed to you when the time comes. Be sure to ask your dojo administrator or your sensei/head instructor, or look up your regional kendo federation website, if they have one.

I hope this helps.