Ninja Rank

Academy Student - The academy is where would-be ninja start; they are not actually considered ninja until they graduate. Academy students take formal and practical tests of all sorts and are taught basic ninja skills, such as martial arts, techniques, physical fitness and the way of the ninja.

Genin - Genin are the lowest level of ninja; although, skill levels vary drastically between Genin. Genin are put in three-man cells, and are then assigned a Jonin sensei to mentor them. This is done to teach the Genin teamwork and experience true ninja life under the supervision and protection of an elite shinobi. The make-up of these teams is based on the individual skills of the Genin, so that there will remain a balance between the teams.

Chuunin - are ninja who are qualified to watch over and guide other ninja. Chunin have reached a level of maturity that primarily consists of leadership skills and tactical prowess. Some of them serve as team leaders in charge of small teams who need to make decisions and utilize the skills of the shinobi under their command to the maximum effect.

Special Jounin - A Special Jounin is a Jounin that specializes in a specific area of expertise. ANBU teams, which serve as police and assassination squads, are also Special Jounins.

Jounin - Chuunins who have shown extraordinary amounts of strength and intelligence are promoted to Jounin. This is a high ranking, and one is sent on more difficult missions

ANBU - A specific devision of ninjas designed much like the royal guard of the Hokage. This group performs assasinations, escorts, and act as body guards as well for the current Kage of their village.

Missing Nin - Ninjas who have abandoned their village. As a result, they are marked for death by their village's hunter-nins, who will hunt them ceaselessly until they either die or get their target.

Hunter Nin - Ninjas who hunt down missing-nins to protect their village's secrets. They are also special Jounins.

Kage - The ultimate warrior in a particular village, in other words: the title of referring to the strongest in the village. What they say usually goes. Their power is only rivaled by other Kages.