LCM Exams
Exam levels
LCM Examinations are offered across a wide range of levels, catering for candidates of all abilities - from introductory assessments for beginners right through to Masters standard qualifications.
1. Early Learning
2. Steps
3. Grades
4. Recital Grades
5. Leisure Play
6. Performance Awards
7. Diplomas
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1. Early Learning
Intended for children aged 3 to 6 years, these exams aim to provide encouragement and a basis for assessment in music and drama/communication at a very early stage of development. They are available as solo exams or group exams, and are conducted in a relaxed environment with the teacher present if desired.
All candidates will receive a report form; this will not include marks, but will award Pass, Merit or Distinction. All children who complete the assessment will be awarded at least a Pass, and will receive a certificate.
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2. Steps
Offered in selected subjects, these pre-Grade 1 exams are an ideal way to introduce pupils to examinations, and provide a useful goal to work towards. Candidates receive a written report and mark, and successful candidates are delighted to receive their first certificate to hang on the wall!
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3. Grades
Graded exams are offered in a wide range of subjects, through a progressive system of 8 levels. Graded exams generate motivation and reward achievement, and the levels are recognised internationally.
In the UK, LCM's graded exams are regulated by Ofqual, DfES and CCEA at Levels 1, 2 and 3 of the Qualifications and Credit Framework, and UCAS points are awarded for higher grades.
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4. Recital Grades
The Recital Grades syllabus offers candidates the opportunity to enter for graded exams focusing entirely, or predominantly, on performance. The exam comprises four pieces (chosen from the graded lists), plus either a fifth piece OR sight reading OR viva voce. Pieces do not have to be chosen from different lists, allowing flexibility in repertoire selection.
In the UK, LCM's recital grades are regulated by Ofqual, DfES and CCEA at Levels 1, 2 and 3 of the Qualifications and Credit Framework.
See the Recital Grades page for full details.
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5. Leisure Play
Available in all music subjects, these are a performance-only alternative to graded exams. They are offered at 8 levels, corresponding in standard to graded exams, and candidates are able to explore jazz, popular or other contemporary styles if they wish. Candidates do not prepare for the additional components of the main grade syllabus; however, Leisure Play exams provide an assessment of standard, as well as being a useful yardstick of progress and a goal to work towards.
As for graded exams, candidates receive a written report form with comments and marks, and successful candidates receive a Pass, Merit or Distinction certificate. [NB Leisure Play exams are not currently regulated by Ofqual.]
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6. Performance Awards
Performance Awards are assessed via DVD submission, rather than attendance at an examination centre. They are performance-only assessments, and may be entered at any time of the year.
See the Performance Awards page for full details.
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7. Diplomas
LCM diplomas are offered at four levels:
- Diploma of the London College of Music (DipLCM)
- Associate of the London College of Music (ALCM)
- Licentiate of the London College of Music (LLCM)
- Fellow of the London College of Music (FLCM)
In the UK, our diplomas are regulated by Ofqual, DfES and CCEA at Levels 4 to 7 of the Qualifications and Credit Framework.
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Certificates are awarded to successful
candidates at all levels
