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Fair access guidelines for Music Theory exams

Introduction

These guidelines contain information for candidates with specific needs taking an ABRSM Music Theory exam. 

They bring together information for candidates with a wide range of specific needs in one place for convenience.  

Before reading these guidelines, we recommend you also read our Specific Needs Policy.

We are  grateful to the British Dyslexia Association for their guidance relating to candidates with specific learning difficulties (SpLDs). 

While we aim to enable access to our exams for all candidates, there may be instances where we are not able to meet your needs or where a Music Theory exam is not the most appropriate option. If you are considering a Music Theory exam in order to take a Practical or Performance Grade 6 or above, you may wish to consider alternative prerequisite qualifications such as our Practical Musicianship exams or  Grade 5 in a solo Jazz instrument. 

Grades 1 to 5

Music Theory Grades 1 to 5 are online exams. You can find general guidance on our Online Music Theory guidance page.  

Grades 6 to 8

Our Music Theory exams at Grades 6 to 8 are paper-based and you can take them at one of our Public Venues or at a Private Visit arranged by the applicant. 

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