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 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 Graduation Raw Starting Beginner Raw and Yellow Baptized Beginner Yellow Beginner Raw and Orange Beginner 2nd grade Yellow and Orange Beginner 3rd grade Orange Intermediate Raw and Green Intermediate 2nd grade Orange and Green Intermediate 3rd grade (Top of page)

Adults' Graduation Raw Starting Beginner Raw and Yellow Baptized Beginner Yellow Beginner Yellow and Orange Beginner 2nd grade Orange Intermediate Orange and Green Intermediate 2nd grade Green Advanced Green and Blue Advanced 2nd grade Blue Formed Blue and Purple Formed 2nd grade Purple Instructor Purple and Brown Instructor 2nd grade Brown Professor Brown and Red Foreman (Mestrando) Red Master (Mestre) (Top of page)