Exam timings
How long do exams take?
You can check timings for face-to-face instrumental and singing exams and Music Theory exams on this page.
Digital Performance Grades and ARSM diplomas – candidates preparing for digital exams should check the syllabus for the maximum programme time for their exam.
For digital exams, the exam slots on our online booking service will be one minute longer than the times shown here for face-to-face Practical Grades and ARSM exams.
Candidates with specific needs – extra time may be available for candidates with certain specific needs. Please check our specific needs pages for details.
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Face-to-face instruments and singing |
Music Theory** |
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Keyboard subjects |
Singing |
Harp and Organ |
All other subjects |
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Prep Test |
10 mins |
10 mins |
- |
12 mins |
- |
|
Initial Grade |
12 mins |
13 mins |
17 mins |
12 mins |
- |
|
Grade 1* |
12 mins |
13 mins |
17 mins |
12 mins |
90 mins |
|
Grades 2 & 3* |
12 mins |
15 mins |
19 mins |
14 mins |
90 mins |
|
Grades 4 & 5* |
15 mins |
15 mins |
22 mins |
17 mins |
120 mins |
|
Grade 6 |
20 mins |
20 mins |
25 mins |
20 mins |
180 mins |
|
Grade 7 |
25 mins |
25 mins |
30 mins |
25 mins |
180 mins |
|
Grade 8 |
30 mins |
30 mins |
35 mins |
30 mins |
180 mins |
|
ARSM |
40 mins |
40 mins |
40 mins |
40 mins |
- |
|
Performance Assessment |
15 mins |
15 mins |
20 mins |
15 mins |
- |
* NB an additional three minutes is applied to Jazz exams.
**Grade 6 to 8 Music Theory candidates may leave at any time after 40 minutes if finished early. Grades 1-5 Music Theory candidates can end the test at any time.
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Ensembles |
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|---|---|---|
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Instrumental/Vocal & Jazz |
Choral Singing |
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Primary/Initial Ensembles |
17 mins |
20 mins |
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Intermediate Ensembles |
23 mins |
22 mins |
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Advanced Ensembles |
30 mins |
25 mins |