Arts, music & chess · The Royal Conservatory of Music

Royal Conservatory of Music Certificate Program Exams

Graded music and theory exams used across Canada. For the January 2027 practical exams, register by November 3, 2026.

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Grades
K–Grade 12
Format
In-person practical exam with an examiner, and written theory exams on set dates.
Cost
Fees depend on the subject and level. See RCM's Canadian fee page.
Official site
www.rcmusic.com

Key dates

  • ConfirmedDec/Jan session registration deadlineTue, November 3, 2026
  • ConfirmedTheory exams (December 11–12)Fri, December 11, 2026
  • ConfirmedPractical exams (January 18–30)Mon, January 18, 2027
  • ConfirmedApril piano-only session registration deadlineTue, January 5, 2027
  • ConfirmedPractical piano exams (April 12–17)Mon, April 12, 2027
  • ConfirmedMay/June session registration deadlineTue, March 2, 2027
  • ConfirmedTheory and history exams (May 14–15)Fri, May 14, 2027
  • ConfirmedPractical exams (June 7–26)Mon, June 7, 2027

What it is

The RCM Certificate Program is a graded system of music exams, from beginner levels up to ARCT. Practical exams test playing or singing, and theory exams start at Level 5.

In Canada, 2026–27 has four in-person sessions: August 2026, December 2026/January 2027, April 2027 (piano only) and May/June 2027.

Theory exams are held only on set dates. In the December session they are December 11 and 12, 2026.

RCM also offers Speech Arts exams, with some theory and history papers in the December and May sessions.

A good fit if: Children taking private music lessons who like clear goals and a certificate for each level.

How to register

  1. Register online through the RCM website. Your child's music teacher can help choose the right level and session.
  2. December/January session: registration is open September 9 to November 3, 2026.
  3. April 2027 piano-only session: register November 10, 2026 to January 5, 2027.
  4. May/June 2027 session: register January 12 to March 2, 2027.

How to prepare

  • Work from the RCM syllabus for your instrument and level with a teacher.
  • RCM's website has practice theory assessments.
  • Leave a few months between registering and the exam for polishing pieces, technique and ear tests.

For grade-by-grade options see Kindergarten, Grade 1, Grade 2, Grade 3, Grade 4, Grade 5, Grade 6, Grade 7, Grade 8, Grade 9, Grade 10, Grade 11, Grade 12.

Common questions

When is the RCM exam registration deadline for winter 2027?

For the December 2026/January 2027 session, register by November 3, 2026. Practical exams are January 18–30, 2027.

When are the RCM theory exams in 2026–27?

December 11–12, 2026 and May 14–15, 2027. There are also August 7–8, 2026 dates, which have already passed.

Is there an RCM exam session in April 2027?

Yes, for piano only. Practical piano exams are April 12–17, 2027. Register November 10, 2026 to January 5, 2027.

What comes next

Arts, music & chess

Vancouver Kiwanis Music Festival

Metro Vancouver's large music competition festival, with feedback from adjudicators. Solo registration runs November 2, 2026 to January 18, 2027.

K–Grade 12Entry fees vary by class

Sources

Last checked October 2, 2026. Dates can change, so always confirm with the organizer.