LCM Exams
The grade ladder
The steps from the introductory exams up to the advanced grades.
Step 1–2
Introductory exams for young children and beginners: a gentle, enjoyable first taste of the exam experience.
Grades 1–3
The foundations: reading, sound technique and short pieces. Level 1 in the UK qualifications framework.
Grades 4–5
Intermediate: longer, more characterful pieces, with developing technique and expression. Level 2.
Grades 6–8
Advanced: a substantial repertoire and a mature interpretation. Level 3, and they carry UCAS points in the UK.
What is LCM Examinations?
London College of Music Examinations (LCME) has been examining music and the performing arts since 1887. It is owned by the University of West London, which awards its qualifications; our students’ certificates carry the university’s name. Exams are held across the UK and in many countries around the world.
Graded exams are regulated by Ofqual, the official regulator of qualifications and examinations in England. That mark, which also appears on our students’ certificates, shows that these are trusted qualifications recognised within the national framework.
The levels
The journey begins with Step 1 and Step 2, introductory exams designed for young children and beginners. Then come the main levels, Grades 1 to 8. In the UK qualifications framework, Grades 1–3 sit at Level 1, Grades 4–5 at Level 2 and Grades 6–8 at Level 3, and Grades 6–8 also carry UCAS points for university applications in the UK. Beyond Grade 8 lie the performance and teaching diplomas.
For students who would rather focus purely on playing, there are also Recital Grades; in piano, the programme is made up entirely of pieces.
What happens in the exam?
In a standard graded exam the student performs pieces chosen from the exam lists. This is the largest section: in piano exams it accounts for 60 per cent of the total marks. The remaining marks are shared between technical work such as scales and arpeggios, sight-reading (playing a piece seen for the first time), aural tests and a short discussion about the pieces performed.
How is it marked?
Exams are marked out of 100:
- Distinction: 85–100 marks
- Merit: 75–84 marks
- Pass: 65–74 marks
In person or digital
LCM exams can be taken in person at an exam centre, or digitally: either by sending a video recording of the programme or in a live online exam. Digital exams are also recognised by Ofqual and carry the same formal standing as in-person exams. The certificates our students received in the winter 2023 session came from LCM’s digital exams.
Results and the report
After each exam, students receive not just a result but a report with section-by-section marks and the examiner’s comments, and successful candidates receive a certificate showing their result. Because the report sets out strengths and areas to develop through independent eyes, it is a valuable guide to the next goal.
Exams are conducted in English. We go over the basic musical terms that may come up in the discussion during lessons, so that language never stands in your child’s way.
Preparing at Soleil
First we agree on the right level for the student. Pieces are chosen early and allowed to mature over several months, while technical work, sight-reading and aural tests progress through short, regular practice in every lesson. As the exam approaches, we hold run-throughs that recreate real exam conditions.
Our aim is not just a good mark. We want your child to go into the exam prepared, calm and confident, and to carry on loving music just as much afterwards.
Our students’ results
Grades and results from the LCM exams our students have sat.
- exam results
- 4
- Distinction
- 3
2023 · 4 students
Piano, Grade 3
- 3 timesDistinction
- 1 timeMerit
Frequently Asked Questions
If there is anything else you would like to know, write to us and we will get back to you soon.
What are LCM exams?
London College of Music Examinations (LCME) is a British music exam board, part of the University of West London, that has been running exams since 1887. Its graded exams lead to internationally recognised qualifications regulated by Ofqual in the UK. Students progress step by step from Step 1 to Grade 8, and each exam is awarded a Pass, Merit or Distinction.
Where and how are the exams taken?
LCM exams can be taken in person or digitally; for a digital exam, a video recording of the programme is submitted. Since sessions, centres and entry arrangements can change, we share the current options with you when entries open. Our students’ winter 2023 certificates came from digital exams.
Come for a trial lesson
Let’s take your child’s first step into music together. In a trial lesson your child meets the instrument and their teacher, and together with you we look at their interests and the right place to begin. You can reach us by phone, WhatsApp or the contact form.