White Belt (Beginner)
Establishing a training routine. Absorbing any knowledge you can, wherever you can.
Learning attitude is established.

Blue Belt: Average Total Years Training (1 - 3 years)
A blue belt can survive all positions, perform basic submissions like the arm bar, triangle, and kimura. They can impose positions like side control, mount, and back mount. Much of a blue belts Jiu Jitsu will be isolated. Forming connections and technique sequences will come later. 

Purple Belt: Average Total Years Training (4 - 5 years)
A purple belt has a more cerebral and methodical approach to Jiu Jitsu. As you begin to represent a higher level of Jiu Jitsu, clumsy and erratic motions are no longer tolerable. Top and bottom games should be effective. A game plan or style will begin to develop. A greater degree of athleticism will be important to step into the rank of purple. 

Brown Belt: Average Total Years Training (7 - 8 years)
As a Brown Belt you are serious about your Jiu Jitsu. A special focus should be paid to your style of Jiu Jitsu. You should be able to convey and explain concepts of BJJ. Start expanding your knowledge. You should be able to tap into different techniques and styles of Jiu Jitsu that can complement and enhance your game when your usual style is not working. You are now a role model for the academy and may start teaching classes. 

Black Belt: Average Total Years Training (8 - 10 years)
As a Black Belt you will have an extremely comprehensive understanding of BJJ. You should have a wide array of techniques and sequences at your disposal, a consistent training schedule, and the ability to teach the techniques you’ve learned. The greatest key to earning your blackbelt is to refine all these principles and more. Demonstrate to your coaches that you are not only a student, but an authority figure within the academy with a positive attitude.