There is no concept of belts in Greek martial art as this is Asian in design. However, it is important to recognize accomplished students and especially those senior to oneself. At the beginning and end of each class students line up by seniority to perform the hairetismos (see the Student Handbook for a description).

There are only 3 ranks certified by thaskalos Hill. They are "akritis" (Gr.one who carries on Hellenic traditions), "polemistis" (Gr. Hellenic warrior) and "thaskalos" (Gr. teacher). When the student has satifisfied the rank criteria for each, they are awarded a certificate. Newly accepted students are recognized as a
"neofitis" (Gr. novice/beginner)

The criteria to be recognized as an "akritis" is that the student must have completed at least 40 hours of instruction and show competency in all material presented during these sessions. They must also pass the Traditions of Greek Martial Art Exam.

The criteria for polemistis is quite a bit more rigorous. The student must have knowledge of and display competency in all areas of the entire curriculum (physical, historical, mythological, philosophical, etc). In addition, they must enact a supplemental training routine that includes 3 days of strength training, 2X3 mile runs, and 2 sessions of skills training each week in addition to daily meditation and breathing exercises. In this way, they will show that they have implemented the concept of "areti" as part of their lifestyle. The student must also again pass the Traditions of Greek Martial Art Exam. Upon successful completion of the criteria, the practitioner is awarded their certificate as well as a Spartan Lakonian as a symbol of not only being an akritis, but exemplifying the ideals of ancient Spartan warrior.

After reaching polemistis, the practitioner must become proficient in the use of the mahairi (Gr. knife) and ropolo (Gr. club) as well as the kopis. In addition, he is expected to take on more teaching responsibility; under the watchful eye of thaskalos Hill. When the Hellenic martial artist has displayed the ability to properly teach the art, they will be certified as a thaskalos. They will then be able to spread Greek martial art to their own disciples.