Guide to RCM Exams | Fantasia Academy of Music

RCM Exams Explained

What is RCM?

The Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) is Canada’s national music examination system.

There are 10 levels in total, plus the Associate Diploma (ARCT) and Licentiate Diploma (LCRM) levels for advanced musicians.

Why Take RCM Exams?

Structured Progress

Each level provides measurable milestones so students can track their improvement over time.

Motivation and Accountability

Exams are tangible goals that can help motivate students to practice.

Academic Recognition

Completing higher RCM levels can count toward secondary school credits in provinces such as BC and Ontario.

How Do RCM Exams Work?

1. Talk with your music teacher

Have a discussion with your teacher, to determine a timeline and suitable level for the student to take an exam.

2. Book an exam

Register for an exam online by visiting the RCM website. You will fill in the instrument, general date, level, and other information required to book the exam. The price for each exam depends on its type, with higher levels generally costing more than earlier levels.

3. Prepare – this takes months at least!

Practice, practice, practice! Becoming ready for exams usually requires months of preparation, including learning pieces from an approved list of music. In addition to performing the prepared pieces, there is also a technical component (playing exercises and patterns) and musicianship (ear tests and sight reading). Often, teachers will conduct mock exams with their students to practice the exam experience. Have questions? Ask us!

4. Complete the exam

Depending on your type of exam, you may either go in-person to the exam facility or do the exam via video call (Zoom). Ensure you are prepared and dress appropriately – like you are giving a performance. Don’t forget to bring your music books for the examiner to look at!

Exam Components

RCM practical exams usually range from around 15 minutes to an hour in length. The components include:

REPERTOIRE

Perform 3 – 6 prepared pieces (specific number depends on the level)

One piece from each List (category) of the RCM curriculum – e.g. one piece from List A, one piece from List B, etc.

ETUDES

Perform up to 2 etudes, depending on the level

Etudes are typically a bit shorter than repertoire pieces, and focus on a specific skill/technique

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

Students will be asked to play prepared scales, exercises, and chords

Example: the examiner may say, “Play a D Major scale” or “Play E Flat minor tonic arpeggios”

MUSICIANSHIP

Students are tested on their ability to identify intervals, chords, and more by ear

Tests also include “playback” and “clapback” – where the student repeats a piece of music from memory after hearing the examiner play it

Sight reading is required – the ability to play a simple piece of music on sight

Theory Exams

In addition to practical examinations, the RCM also offers written theory tests.

Theory exams are required for students pursuing full RCM certificates at higher levels. Many students start at Level 8, as this level satisfies all the previous level theory requirements. It is also the prerequisite for higher levels. Starting from Level 9, written exams also include Harmony, History, and Analysis:

Harmony teaches how music is structured, including chords, chord progressions, cadences, and basic composition techniques.
History explores major musical periods, composers, styles, and the cultural context of important works. Essay writing is often required.
Analysis focuses on how to recognize musical forms and sections.

Final Thoughts

RCM exams are a great way to measure progress and motivate practice for students.

If you are looking for a piano teacher to help you prepare in Vancouver, Richmond, Burnaby, New West, or Surrey, contact us! We are also happy to answer your questions regarding exam preparation, practice tips, and more.