Ranks and belts

Taekwondo Belt Requirements by Style

Every belt test asks for forms, kicks and basics. The forms change by style, and the standards change by school.

Reviewed by Daniel Reyes, 4th dan Kukkiwon, 18 years teaching  |  Last checked: October 26, 2026

A taekwondo belt test usually has five parts: basics, a form, one-step or self-defense drills, sparring at higher belts and a short oral or written check. WT and Kukkiwon schools teach Taegeuk 1 to 8 from 8th gup to 1st gup. ITF schools teach patterns from Chon-Ji to Choong-Moo. ATA schools teach Songahm forms and add weapons and breaking. Your school sets the exact pass mark.

What every test has in common

  • Basics: stances, blocks, strikes and kicks, done in lines or across the floor.
  • A form: the set pattern of moves for your rank.
  • Drills: one-step sparring, self-defense or kicking combinations.
  • Sparring: light or full-contact, usually from blue or red belt up, with full gear.
  • Breaking and knowledge: a board break at some belts, plus belt-level terms, rules and manners.

The belt test guide covers what to expect on the day and how to prepare.

WT and Kukkiwon schools

These schools count down through 10 gup ranks, then test for 1st Dan. The forms are the eight Taegeuk forms. A common school layout runs like this:

  • 10th and 9th gup: basics only.
  • 8th gup: Taegeuk 1 (Il Jang).
  • 7th gup: Taegeuk 2 (Ee Jang).
  • 6th gup: Taegeuk 3 (Sam Jang).
  • 5th gup: Taegeuk 4 (Sa Jang).
  • 4th gup: Taegeuk 5 (Oh Jang).
  • 3rd gup: Taegeuk 6 (Yook Jang).
  • 2nd gup: Taegeuk 7 (Chil Jang).
  • 1st gup: Taegeuk 8 (Pal Jang).

Black belt tests add the Black Belt forms (Koryo and above), breaking, sparring and a written part. See the WT and Kukkiwon belt order for the belt colors and stripes, and Kukkiwon certification for the Dan process.

ITF schools

ITF schools teach patterns (tul). Each gup grade has one pattern:

  • 9th gup: Chon-Ji.
  • 8th gup: Dan-Gun.
  • 7th gup: Do-San.
  • 6th gup: Won-Hyo.
  • 5th gup: Yul-Gok.
  • 4th gup: Joong-Gun.
  • 3rd gup: Toi-Gye.
  • 2nd gup: Hwa-Rang.
  • 1st gup: Choong-Moo.

Tests also include step sparring, free sparring, self-defense and theory. The ITF uses the sine wave motion, a rise and fall in each technique, which gives ITF patterns a different look from WT forms. Read the ITF belt order for the belt sequence.

ATA schools

The ATA uses its own Songahm forms and a belt ladder with more steps and stripes than WT or ITF. Tests usually add board breaking, weapons at higher belts, and a written or oral part. The ATA belt order lists the belts. Because ATA schools set their own stripe tests, ask your instructor for the written syllabus.

Why your school may differ

Even within one style, schools set their own pace, pass marks and extra requirements. Some require attendance minimums, a set number of classes between tests or a cost for each test. Ask for the syllabus in writing and check test fees before you sign. Our cost calculator includes belt test fees.

Frequently asked questions

What do you need to pass a taekwondo belt test?

Basics, the form for your rank, drills, sparring at higher belts and a short check on terms. The exact pass mark is set by your school.

Which form is first in WT taekwondo?

Taegeuk 1 (Il Jang), usually taught at 8th gup.

Which pattern is first in ITF?

Chon-Ji, taught at 9th gup.

How many belts are there in taekwondo?

WT and ITF count 10 gup grades before black belt. Schools often add stripes or extra colors. The ATA has its own ladder.

Do all belt tests include sparring?

No. Sparring usually starts at middle belts. Some schools skip it for young children.

Is a belt from one school accepted by another?

Often yes within the same style, but the new school may ask you to test again.

Sources