diplomas at a glance - ABRSM

About this guide
This guide to the Associated Board’s Diplomas is designed to help you decide which
diploma is right for you. It does not replace the full Diploma Syllabus.
Before you start to prepare for your Diploma, you should read the relevant syllabus so
that you are aware of what is required of you both before and during the exam.
The Diploma Syllabus from 2005 is published as three separate syllabus documents,
one for each subject:
● Music Direction
● Music Performance
● Instrumental/Vocal Teaching
All syllabus documents are available at www.abrsm.org/exams/diplomas or by request
from the Associated Board.
Introducing the Diplomas
Entry requirements
The Associated Board’s Diplomas provide assessments for a wide range of musicians
whether studying for a career in music, working as a professional musician, or just looking
for a new challenge.
There are three Diploma subjects:
● Music Direction
● Music Performance
● Instrumental/Vocal Teaching
For each subject there are three levels of Diploma:
● DipABRSM Diploma of The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music
● LRSM Licentiate of the Royal Schools of Music
● FRSM Fellowship of the Royal Schools of Music
The Associated Board’s Diplomas are recognised by musicians around the world and they
are compatible with systems of assessment used in higher education.
All Associated Board Diplomas are letter-bearing. With DipABRSM, LRSM or FRSM after
your name, musicians, employers, pupils and their parents will know that you have a
professional qualification from a respected organisation.
By studying for and taking an Associated Board Diploma you will gain skills, knowledge
and recognition in your chosen field. We hope that you find the experience stimulating,
challenging and worthwhile.
When you enter for a Diploma you will need to show that you have reached the minimum
standard needed to attempt the exam – we refer to this as a ‘prerequisite’.
We allow a range of substitutions, or alternatives, for these prerequisites. You can also
offer appropriate professional experience such as experience as a regular concert
performer or as a successful instrumental teacher.
Further information about prerequisites, substitutions and appropriate professional
experience can be found in the relevant syllabus and at www.abrsm.org/exams/diplomas