Dan Grading Pathways Reopen: Time-Served & Vocational Gradings Now Live

Hi there,

Your route to Dan grade progression is back – rebuilt from the ground up.

We're pleased to announce that both our Time-Served and Vocational Dan Grading pathways are now fully operational, following an extended development period to ensure we got this right.

Why the delay?

When we temporarily closed applications in July, we anticipated reopening in November. That timeline extended as we committed to building something properly – not just a quick fix, but a robust, scalable system that maintains the high standards BMABA is known for.

Our reputation in martial arts rests on not handing out grades to anyone who asks. We've always placed stringent requirements on both time-served and vocational gradings, and we weren't prepared to compromise that by rushing a half-finished system out the door.

The new platform handles high-volume applications, integrates with our quality management framework, and ensures every grading receives the rigorous attention it deserves.

What's available?

Time-Served Dan Gradings – For senior practitioners (4th Dan+) who have dedicated years to their art but lack access to traditional grading pathways. No technical examination – instead, your continued contribution and community support speaks for your progression.

Apply for Time-Served Grading →

Vocational Dan Gradings – Merit-based video assessments for those facing geographical, financial, or political barriers to in-person gradings. Reviewed by independent examiner panels with full anonymity protocols.

Apply for Vocational Grading →

What to expect

We're anticipating high demand, particularly for time-served gradings. The new system is built to handle this, but please allow reasonable processing times as our Executive Committee and Board of Trustees review applications bi-weekly.

Both pathways are delivered within our ISO 9001:2015 UKAS-accredited Quality Management System, ensuring nationally recognised, quality-assured certification.

For senior grades: Become an examiner

We're also recruiting examiners for our vocational grading panels. Earn £25 per grading credited to your myBMABA wallet while supporting politics-free grade progression. You can apply to adjudicate any grading for which your grade is either a direct match, or a familial match.

Register as an Examiner →