How often can people do an aikido test?

Question

Does my teacher need to inform me about when the test is? Can I do it by myself in an other place? In Calgary, do you know how often are people doing aikido test?

Answer 1

deont worry about your rank be in peace

Answer 2

Every school is different, but martial arts is martial arts.  Formal testing is usually scheduled, but it's your teacher's discretion.  You will get a better answer from one of the higher level students from your school.  They would know your teachers habits better than any of us.  

In theory, one should be practicing everyday.  Changing up what you practice keeps a variety of things fresh in your mind.  That way when your teacher says, " Show me ......" you can do it without having to think about it.  

Answer 3

Traditionally, ones senei will inform you when you are to be tested.

In the art of peace, aikido, one should not stirve to attain rank, rather, one should work to attain knowledge and ability in understanding ki and how to be one with the same in harmony with the ki of the universe and all that is in it.

All desire, especially those that pertain to ones ego, such as acquiring rank, lead to suffering.

Perhaps it is wiser to empty ones self and simply "be".

Be well, be wise and please, continue to practice the art of peace.

Answer 4

The fact is that there is no rush and students progress at there own pace in their own time. To set time scales on yourself is inadvisable, as you will soon learn that the only true measure of achievement in Aikido is your own understanding and development. At the end of the day you are only competing against yourself, so why put yourself under that kind of pressure!

Then again, gradings are not compulsory but do serve as good motivation for everyone. They help to add structure to your learning and provide a tangible goal for your efforts.  However, you should be aware that Sensei is assessing your ability at each lesson, and you will only be invited to grade if he believes that you are capable of passing.

The link provided is for guidance only.