Exams

Around the world, RAD exams are recognised for their quality, and each year, nearly a quarter of a million candidates across the globe choose to take their dance exams with us.

We offer a wide range of exams and assessments to motivate and reward students of all ages and abilities. Our focus is on creativity and musicality, providing opportunities to progress and achieve. It’s not just professional or young dancers who take our exams; age is no barrier to success. At any stage of your life or career you can develop your fitness, musicality and artistry. Our candidates range in age from 2 to 60+!

Quick Guide to Exams

Name of Award What? Who? Assessed? Where?
Demonstration Class (Dance to Your Own Tune) Free content, led by teacher Cadidates age 2.5 - 5 years No, the examiner only observes AEC or RAV
Solo Performance Award (Grades 1 -5) 3 Solo dances, at least 2 from exam syllabus From age 5 Yes, as per Award criteria AEC or RAV
Class Award (Pre-Primary in Dance to Grade 8 and Discovering Repertoire) Class Award syllabus (a selection of exercises and one dance) led by the teacher From Age 5, Discovering Repertoire from age 12 Yes, a broad indication of standard rather than a detailed breakdown AEC or RAV
Examination (Graded, Vocational and Discovering Repertoire) Candidates perform the exam syllabus From age 5, Discovering Repertoire from age 12 Yes, as per exam criteria AEC or RAV
Solo Seal Candidates perform three variations and a virtuoso finale for a panel of judges and an audience From age 15 Yes, by an RAD examiner and a dance professional approved by the Artistic Director RAV or theatre venue

Dance to Your Own Tune

Movement, music, and magic for pre-school children Demonstration class led by the teacher and observed by the examiner. for candidates 2.5 – 5yrs old
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Class Award

For candidates studying Pre-Primary in Dance – Grade 8 and Discovering Repertoire. Following the class award syllabus and including a selection of exercises and one…
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Solo Performance Award

For candidates from Grade 1-5 Includes 3 solo dances including at least 2 from the RAD syllabus assessed by an Examiner For candidates from 5yrs…
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Graded Examinations in Dance Syllabus

Focuses on ballet (including elements of freer and progressive styles, appropriate for today's dancer) and Character Includes Graded Examinations (Primary in Dance – Grade 8),…
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Vocational Graded Examinations in Dance Syllabus

Builds on the elements covered in the Graded syllabus, focusing on the performance of ballet to an advanced standard, and is intended for students who…
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Solo Seal

The Solo Seal is still the RAD's highest Vocational Graded examination and remains a true test of a dancer's ability; though over the years the…
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Discovering Repertoire

We have produced a range of books, CDs, DVDs, and printed music to support each level of Discovering Repertoire.
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Video Exams

Video exams were introduced to offer an alternative for teachers and students wishing to enter exams during the COVID-19 global pandemic when live exams were…
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Entry Forms

  Registration forms Candidate Registration Form School Registration Form Progress reports Dance to your own tune progress report Presentation class progress report Grades 6 –…
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The Panel of Examiners

The RAD has a panel of over 200 examiners across 25 countries. Examiners undergo a demanding selection process followed by further training and quality assurance…
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