Frequently Asked Questions
Please note: Most of the information about the application process, audition requirements, academic requirements and fees can be found here.
Q: I’m unsure if I’m either good enough to come to audition or if I want to study at a conservatoire, can I book an Advice Audition?
A: Yes. Advice auditions are normally only available during January-June. Please contact
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to request an application form.
Q: Do I need to have achieved ABRSM Grade 8 in both my instrument and theory to get a place?
A: No. You can apply and audition without having obtained Grade 8. As an indication only, applicants are normally expected to have reached Grade 8 standard in their performance, however.
Q: I don’t have Music A Level, can I still apply?
A: Yes you can apply without A Level in Music although we would recommend you to take it.
Q: I am a Scottish candidate, what is the equivalent to an A Level?
A: Scottish Advanced Highers are considered equivalent to A Levels.
Q: I am an international candidate. Do you have any language requirements?
A: Yes. All candidates whose first language is not English are required to submit evidence of their English language abilities before 1 April. Please click on our international student entry requirements page for further information.
Q: Do you do courses in jazz and/or popular music?
A: We do not offer a standalone Jazz programme. However, there is an optional module in jazz on the classical BMus programme that you can take. There is also a two-year Foundation Degree Programme in Popular Music (Session Musician) which is available for September 2012 entry. There is a guaranteed progression route to a one-year course that leads to a BA in popular music at Leeds College of Music. There is also a proposed new 3 year BA(Hons) Popular Music Performance for September 2013 entry onwards.
Q: Do I have to have a degree in music in order to apply for a postgraduate course?
A: No. Postgraduate applicants are required to have a first degree before entry. However, this degree does not always have to be in music.
Q: How do I apply?
A: Applications are normally made online via www.cukas.ac.uk. For details about overseas auditions, research courses and professional development courses, please view the Study Here section of our website.
Q: Can I apply to universities as well as conservatoires?
A: Yes. You can apply to universities on UCAS and conservatoires on CUKAS at the same time. You can hold a guaranteed/firm offer on both systems although a final decision is required before the start of your course.
Q: When do I have to apply?
A: CUKAS ‘Apply’ function is normally available from early July for the following year’s entry. The deadline is 1 October. Late applications are accepted, provided there are places available. Late applicants are advised to contact Admissions to check availability of places before making an application.
Q: Can I apply for two principal study areas/two instruments?
A: Joint Principal Study is not offered on any of the RNCM courses. You will concentrate on one instrument or principal study area during your course. If you would like to be considered for two instruments or Principal Study areas, you will need to make two separate applications and pay two audition fees on CUKAS.
Q: I am interested in both PGDip and MMus, should I make two applications on CUKAS?
A: No, as the audition process is the same. You only need to make one application, pay one audition fee and attend one audition. You can discuss your course options with the audition panel if necessary and change your course choice later. The final outcome will also depend on the academic assessment.
Q: I’m having problems with my CUKAS login. What do I do?
A: You will need to contact the CUKAS helpline on 0871 468 0470.
Q: How much is the audition fee? How do I pay?
A: For 2013 entry, the audition fee for classical singing, composition and performance is £55. The audition fee for the proposed BA(Hons) Popular Music Performance for September 2013 entry is £55. For Foundation Degree Programme (available for September 2012 entry), the audition fee is £40. Auditions fees must be paid to CUKAS at the time of your application. For more information, please visit CUKAS website.
Q: When is the audition period?
A: Currently the main audition period is 1-16 December. This is subject to change.
Q: What are the audition requirements?
A: Audition requirements vary from instrument to instrument. Generally speaking, 2-3 contrasting pieces are required. The audition will last 10-30 minutes including a brief interview. Many of the auditions are in two rounds held on the same day. For further information, please visit the Audition Requirements page on our website.
Q: When will I know the outcome of my audition?
A: If you apply on time and attend an audition during the main audition period, you will receive an outcome via CUKAS before Christmas. If you are offered a guaranteed place, you will also receive an offer letter by email or post.
Q: How do I apply for a scholarship?
A: All applicants are automatically considered for an entrance award/scholarship. You do not need to apply for one. For other scholarship information and bursaries, please visit the scholarships and bursaries page on our website.
Q: What are the term dates for 2012-2013 academic year?
A: 2012-13 academic year starts from 24 September and ends on 7 July. The induction period starts from 12 September 2012.
Q: What are the tuition fees for 2012-2013 academic year?
A: For UK/EU undergraduate students, the fees are £9,000. For other courses, please refer to the 2011-12 fees page on our website for information.
Q: I have been offered a Reserve place, can I accept another offer?
A: You can accept a reserve offer as your 1st choice and a guaranteed or a reserve offer as your 2nd choice on CUKAS.
Q: I’ve been offered a Reserve place, when will I find out if it will be converted to a full offer?
A: Anytime between February-August. We will notify you as soon as the situation changes. Unfortunately most reserves do become unsuccessful.
Q: Can I visit the College before making a decision?
A: Yes we have two Open Days a year, and requests for individual visits may be possible. Please visit our Open Day page for further information.
Last update: May 2012