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Rank Testing

Black Belt Schools International does rank testing for members each year.   The purpose is to give independent school owners a legitimate avenue for rank advancement and promotion.   

2025 Rank Testing Format

Instructor Rank Testing for third degree and up.  Since we are international we have gone to a video testing format.  To test for your next rank you must submit an application.  If approved you will then follow the qualifications, submit the lesions of recommendation as well as a 20 minute testing video

Please review the requirements (scroll down) to see if you qualify for testing.   These include a panel of Black Belt Schools International Board of Directors. 

Past testing board members:

"Superfoot" Bill Wallace

Diego Perez: Tae Kwon Do 8th degree black belt

Steve DelCastillio: representing Krav Maga

Greg Silva: President of BBSI and Grand Master

​Derek Frader - 6th degree black belt

Apply for rank testing

click here to fill out the testing application online

 The Current Testing Board Includes:

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Grandmaster Greg Silva

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Grandmaster Diego Perez

Rank Testing Pre-Qualifications

  • 2nd degree:  Two years continuous training after receiving black belt and required testing curriculum
  • 3rd degree:  Three years continuous training after receiving 2nd degree black belt and required testing curriculum. Letter of recommendation from one or your 1st degree black belts.
  • 4th degree:  Fours years continuous trying after receiving your third degree black belt and required testing curriculum. Letter of recommendation from a second degree active student you promoted and 4 letters of recommendations from active first degree black belts.
  • 5th degree:  5 years continuous training after receiving your fourth degree black belt and required physical testing. Letter of recommendation from a third degree black belt you promoted, a recommendation from a second degree black belt and first degree black belt. ​
  • 6th degree through 10th degree black belt:  A minimum of 5 years between ranks. Letters of recommendations from a Master Instructor of higher or equal rank.  Two  letters of recommendation from students of third degree and above. 
  • 8th degree - 50 years and older
  • 9th degree - 60 years and older



​All applicants will include a performance video.  Traditional martial artists will demonstrate 3 forms, a weapons form,  5 minutes of self defense, 5 minutes teaching and a 2 minute talk about your martial arts passion and goals. 

Videos will be reviewed and you will receive a response within 1 week.   Once approved for advancement we will issue a media announcement and send you your new rank certificate.  Additional announcements will be made on numerous FaceBook martial arts groups.

Testing fees are inclusive  $295.00

​To get started fill out the application.

Next you will receive a link for registration and payment.

Submit your video and receive a call from GM Silva

Once approved you will receive your media announcement and certificate.
Copyright © 2017-2025 Black Belt Schools International
  • Home
  • Membership
    • Membership Information
    • Membership Application
  • Rank Testing
    • Testing Information
    • Testing Application
  • Find a School
  • PHOTOS
  • BBSI Instructor Certification
  • Marketing Tips
  • Members Only
  • SHOP
    • Order The Silva Solution
    • Elements Curriculum