Everything You Need to Know About ABRSM Violin Exams
Learn everything about the ABRSM violin exams in this complete guide for 2025. Discover exam levels, the difference between Practical and Performance exams, U.S. exam dates, registration, and the best violin options for each level.
Table of Contents
- What is ABRSM?
- ABRSM Violin Grades Overview
- Exam Types & Structure
- Exam Dates & Registration in the U.S.
- Exam Fees in the U.S. (2025)
- How to Register
- Fiddlover’s Tip for Violin Students
- Final Thoughts
🎻 What is ABRSM?
ABRSM stands for The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, founded in 1889. It’s one of the most respected music examination boards worldwide. Each year, over 600,000 students in more than 90 countries take ABRSM exams — including violin, piano, and many other instruments.
🎼 ABRSM Violin Grades Overview
ABRSM violin exams are divided into:
- Initial Grade (pre-Grade 1)
- Grades 1 to 8
Here’s a simple breakdown:
- 🎻 Beginner (Initial – Grade 2): Basic technique and short pieces
- 🎵 Intermediate (Grades 3–5): Developing tone, control, and style
- 🎶 Advanced (Grades 6–8): High-level repertoire and expressive performance
📚 Exam Types & Structure
There are two exam formats:
1. Practical Grade Exam (In-person)
This exam includes:
- 🎼 Three selected pieces (from the ABRSM syllabus)
- 🎵 Scales and arpeggios
- 👀 Sight-reading
- 👂 Aural tests
2. Performance Grade Exam (Digital)
Video submission only. Perform four pieces — no scales, sight-reading, or aural tests. Upload within 28 days after registration.
🇺🇸 Exam Dates & Registration in the U.S.
Practical (In-person)
- Spring Session: April–June (register in early March)
- Fall Session: October–December (register in August/September)
Check regional availability on the ABRSM U.S. site.
Performance Grade (Digital)
- Open year-round
- Upload performance within 28 days of registration
💰 Exam Fees in the U.S. (2025)
| Grade | Practical Exam | Performance Exam |
|---|---|---|
| Initial | $182 | $131 |
| Grade 1 | $202 | $145 |
| Grade 2 | $258 | $186 |
| Grade 3 | $268 | $192 |
| Grade 4 | $314 | $226 |
| Grade 5 | $321 | $231 |
| Grade 6 | $372 | $268 |
| Grade 7 | $419 | $302 |
| Grade 8 | $488 | $351 |
📌 For Grades 6 and above, ABRSM requires passing Music Theory Grade 5 before taking performance exams.
📝 How to Register
- Visit us.abrsm.org
- Create an account
- Select exam type and grade
- Fill in personal info and pay
- Upload video if doing digital exam
🎻 Fiddlover’s Tip for Violin Students
At Fiddlover Violin Shop, we do not provide tutoring or exam coaching — but we do offer a wide selection of violins for all ABRSM levels.
- Beginner models (Initial–Grade 2): Light, easy to tune
- Intermediate violins (Grade 3–5): Responsive, balanced tone
- Advanced instruments (Grade 6–8): Clear projection, expressive range
🎻 Need help choosing the right violin for your level? Explore our violin collection here.
🎯 Final Thoughts
ABRSM violin exams offer a clear, internationally respected path for musical growth. Whether you’re just beginning or preparing for Grade 8, these exams are an excellent way to track progress and set meaningful goals.
At Fiddlover Violin Shop, we’re here to support your journey with instruments that grow with you — from beginner to advanced.
Fiddlover Violin Shop
Crafted for Every Stage of Your Violin Journey 🎻