Hey folks,

I just wondered, in your experience, do exam entries that go in earlier have a better chance of getting the week requested etc? The week I'd be asking for would be an early one, which I imagine would be less popular anyway: just wondering really, does anyone know? I have to coordinate student and accompanist availability, and I'm thinking that if I can get the entry in earlier that might help.

Anyone know?

Sarah

That's a burning question in my mind too!
Logically speaking, abrsm officiers will look at the earlier entries first, isn't it?
Moreover, I sent in the application form one day before the dateline and my date is two weeks before my desired date. That's so horrible.

I would contact your local rep if you can, to find out which dates the exam centre has requested. I know our local centre only usually has a few days worth of exams in the Autumn term, so everyone gets that week whatever they've asked for. (It's almost always the next to last week, so us old hands know which week we're getting. )

Good point, Andante. I *think* our local centre does all the weeks, but I'd best check.

I habitually send in entries on the deadline day, and usually have got either the week I asked for, or only one week away...

I just remembered that there is the option on the form to put in a 'last available date'.

Especially useful if you are looking for an early week.

Yes, I'm hoping they will stick to that one! It needs to be early.

I've sent entries at all times (early and on the closing date!) and I don't really think it makes much difference. I'd say I've had my preferred week almost three quarters of the time, which is what the Board aim for. However, if you ask for a less popular week you are more likely to get it (provided your local centre is examining then).

Oh excellent, that's useful to know!

They don't look at any of the entries until after the closing date - I know this for a fact because they've told me!

Violinia

I think it depends on the centre.

I have two centres that I can use. The nearest is small and only opens for two or three days in the exam period. So if I opt for that centre the dates are constrained by when they are open.

The other centre is in the nearest city. They are open for the whole period. When I've gone there, I've been given my requested dates.

So, I would find out from your local rep whether that centre offers the full complement.

Thanks,

Karen