GRADUATION SYSTEM
The graduation system was introduced into capoeira by Mestre Bimba, with scarves (a homage to former capoeiristas who wore silk scarves around their neck thus believing to be protected from the cut of razorblades). Even though the scarves were not used by the students, each student kept it after receiving one. Nowadays, the graduation system may vary from one group to another.
The graduation system differs at the beginning for children under 16 years old (only the cord’s tips are colored) and becomes the same as the adults’ when reaching the advanced level.
The capoeirista must attain at least the rank of formado (formed), in order to acquire the right to work as a capoeira teacher.
CHILDREN’S GRADUATIONS
Raw
Starting Beginner
Raw and Yellow
Baptized Beginner
Yellow
Beginner
Yellow and Orange
Beginner 2nd grade
Orange
Intermediate
Orange and Blue
Intermediate 2nd grade
Blue
Advanced
Blue and Green
Advanced 2nd grade
Green
Advanced 3rd grade
Transition to adult graduations.
ADULT’S GRADUATIONS
Raw
Starting Beginner
Raw and Yellow
Baptized Beginner
Yellow
Beginner
Yellow and Orange
Beginner 2nd grade
Orange
Intermediate
Orange and Blue
Intermediate 2nd grade
Blue
Advanced
Blue and Green
Advanced 2nd grade
Green
Formed (Formado)
Purple
Instructor (Instrutor)
Brown
Professor (Professor)
Black
Fore-Master (Contramestre)
Red
Master (Mestre)
