The majority of training for individuals (that is, souls residing in Soul Society) wishing to become Shinigami is done through the Shinigami Academy. It is a six-year academy, during which time its students learn how to carry out their Shinigami duties as well as use their Spiritual Energy properly, fight Hollows, and perform Soul Burials. The four forms of Shinigami combat which each individual must excel in are; Swordplay (Zanjutsu), Demon Arts (Kidou), Hand To Hand Combat (Hakuda) and Footwork (Hohou).
All Shinigami must complete the Academy in order to become a member of the 13 court guard squads, No exceptions.
For a soul type Shinigami to increase his/her status in each form of combat they need only to pass a weekly test given out by the instructor. The tests will be carried out within their respective channels and will be headed by select instructors specializing in a set form of combat. The results of each Shinigami's test scores will not be made public rather be forwarded to them (VIA, PM).
A shinigami must prove moderate to extreme comprehension of all forms of combat before posting their cumulative scores in the graduating roster. The instructors from all four specializations alone will decide the time in which a Shinigami may graduate from the Academy.
Absolutely in no circumstances may any outside influences be tolerated; except the occasional Visits from the Gotei 13.