← Black Belt Testing
2027 candidate guide
Build the habits of your next rank.
Eligibility is based on your time in practice and performance. Work with your sensei, increase your regular training where possible, and use additional classes to improve your skills.
Prepare now
- Review Uechiryu history, terminology, traditions, and curriculum.
- Strengthen the basics through regular, deliberate training.
- Take opportunities to train with instructors at other association dojos.
- Prepare for the preview, performance review, written examination, provisional “Ho” status, and graduation.
2027 testing dates
| Date | Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| February 6, 2027 | Black Belt Testing Preview | Neil Stone’s Karate Academy Hollis, NH |
| April 3, 2027 | Black Belt Testing Review — Level One, Level Two, Shodan, and Nidan Candidates | Buzz Durkin’s Uechi Karate School Atkinson, NH |
| April 10, 2027 | Black Belt Testing Review — Level Three, Level Four, Sandan, Yondan, and Godan Candidates | Buzz Durkin’s Uechi Karate School Atkinson, NH |
| June 5, 2027 | Post-Review Black Belt Testing | Buzz Durkin’s Uechi Karate School Atkinson, NH |
| September 10, 2027 | Master’s Testing | At UechiCon |
| September 12, 2027 | Black Belt Graduation | At UechiCon |
Candidate classes
General cross-training is scheduled for January–March 2027, followed by detailed cross-training in May–June 2027. Confirm individual class times with the host dojo.