ABRSM

[kuska]

Hello,

anyone know how grades in ABRSM exams are calculated? I mean are they 1:1? I saw there are only 6 of them so I wonder? Is it one year for one grade or more?

[tinyhands]

There are 8 initial ABRSM grades then there are diploma and masters level after that. I think the rough school of thought is 1 year per grade up to about grade 6 then it could be about 2years each grade from 6-7 then 7-8. Remember you also can't go past grade 5 practical without grade 5 theory, for this reason some people that take the exam route look to exam boards like Trinity instead ( as you don't need to sit theory) There are also spilt opinions on whether to go down the exam route at all, however I think grade 6 and above go towards UCAS points in Uk ( for entry to University) The problem can be people ( especially children being rushed through their grades) sometimes only learn for the exam, missing out a whole wealth of pieces and styles to be explored.

[avanchnzel]

Hi. The grades at ABRSM are directly equated into GCSE and A Level music in the UK. At GCSE, at least Grade 4 is expected for performance. At AS level, Grade 5, and A2, grade 6 and so on. The DipABRSM is the equivalent of 1 undergraduate year at a conservatoire, the LRSM 3 years, and the FRSM a master's.

The diplomas do not count towards any UCAS points because they're over level 3 qualifications (see the national qualifications framework). Only level 3 or less counts towards UCAS points which I personally think is ridiculous. I had an LTCL (Trinity's equivalent of LRSM) by time of application and that counted to nothing. Of course it's a great boon in applying to a music degree anyway when they find out. The UCAS application is not just one number.

As for the graded exams I find them to be painstakingly boring and slow anyway, so rush away at them! Having a Grade 8 will really complement your UCAS application as it shows you can be dedicated and committed.

[kuska]

Thanks for the answer. That makes sense right now.