In 1977, in an effort to spread the study of Shotokan throughout the world, high-ranking members from the Japan Karate Association (JKA) founded the ISKF.
Though the ISKF is based mainly in the United States, affiliated dojos can be found in over forty countries worldwide.
For all kyu (colored belt) tests, the candidate must demonstrate the mandated kata for their rank, karate basics, and sparring.
The ISKF runs an annual training retreat in Green Lane, Pennsylvania, which draws karate practitioners from all over the world.
The biggest collegiate event to date was held at Lycoming College in 2018, had over 80 participants and multiple instructors (including Sensei Hoffman, Vance, Haase, Swanson, Taka-Hashi & Bliss).
However, a majority of the practitioners within the ISKF decided to remain with that organization rather than JKA, including Teruyuki Okazaki, one of the founders.