What Is a BJJ Grading?
A BJJ grading is the process where your coach assesses your Brazilian Jiu Jitsu skill level and decides if you are ready to be promoted to the next belt. It is based on your technique, consistency, attitude, and how well you perform in real training, not just time spent on the mats.
I Thought I Was Tough, Then I Did My Blue Belt Grading
Eliot Pak - Apex BJJ Blue Belt Grading Survivor
Apex Jiu Jitsu Gradings
BJJ gradings are an exciting part of the journey because they mark real progress, not just time spent training. At Apex BJJ, we use the BJJ Grading System to recognise students who are consistently showing improvement in technique, discipline, and effort on the mats. A grading is not about being the toughest person in the room. It is about demonstrating the fundamentals, understanding key positions, and showing that you can apply what you have learned during live training.
What Happens During a Gyms BJJ Grading System?
The BJJ Grading System typically includes belts and stripes, and promotions are earned through consistency, attitude, and performance over time. During gradings, students are often put through drilling, movement, and controlled rounds that test their ability to stay calm under pressure. This is where confidence is built. You learn to keep going even when you are tired, uncomfortable, or challenged. The BJJ Grading System could start with demonstrating techniques, self defense and even live rolling or sparring
Benefits of BJJ Gradings
Gradings also help students set clear goals. Instead of training with no direction, you know what skills you need to sharpen to reach the next level. Most importantly, BJJ gradings bring the whole team together. They celebrate hard work, growth, and the shared journey that makes Jiu Jitsu more than just a sport.Â
Are Gradings The Same For All Gyms?
No, not all BJJ grading systems are the same. While most gyms follow the traditional belt order and use stripes, the exact requirements for promotion can vary depending on the Brazilian Jiu Jitsu academy, coach, and affiliation. Different gyms may also incorporate self defense into their gradings while others leave that out. Some BJJ schools grade more often with structured testing, while others promote based on consistent performance, attendance, and skill development over time. There are many variations for grading but the key is that promotions should reflect real progress, not just time spent training. For an overall guide check out the IBJJF Graduation System
The Jiu Jitsu Grading Breakdown
A simple guide to how belts and stripes are earned in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, what coaches look for during promotions, and why consistency, performance, and mindset matter just as much as technique.
Belt Levels
The BJJ grading system is built around belt ranks that represent your overall skill level. Each belt reflects your understanding of fundamentals, ability to apply techniques, and growth over time through consistent training.
Stripes & Progression
Stripes are smaller milestones between belts. They show steady improvement and help students stay motivated while building key skills like escapes, control, and clean technique.
Performance
Promotions are not based on drills alone. Coaches watch how you perform during live rounds, how you handle pressure, and whether you can apply what you learn safely and effectively.
Consistency & Character
Attendance matters, but so does mindset. Coaches look for discipline, respect, coachability, and effort. The students who progress fastest are usually the ones who keep showing up and doing the work.
The Apex of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu & Wrestling in Parramatta & Merrylands. Our Parramatta Jiu Jitsu & Wrestling classes provide beginner and advanced BJJ classes for all ages. We have classes for adults, women's BJJ classes and kids BJJ classes all year round. Join the our Jiu Jitsu gym and become a part of the Apex training program. Book a free trial class here
