The Vocational Graded Syllabus

Students wishing to study for the Vocational Graded syllabus should have the type of body that can respond to demanding study. Students must also be able to concentrate for long periods of time and be able to accept and welcome constructive comments and correction.

Entry Requirements
Candidates are eligible to take a Vocational Graded Examination as long as their age meets the minimum age requirement. There are no upwards age limits on any Vocational Examinations.

If candidates have achieved a distinction in Intermediate or any of the Advanced examinations, they may enter for the next examination one year younger than the minimum ages stated below:

Where do I take my examinations?
The Royal Academy of Dance holds Vocational Graded Examinations in approved venues throughout the world. The number of venues depends on the average number of candidates who undertake the examinations during a year. Some countries will only have one venue whereas others will have a number of venues. Representatives of the Royal Academy of Dance will be present to assist the candidates for examination.

Methods of Assessment
A practical examination will take place in the studio with other candidates in the group, conducted by an examiner of the Royal Academy of Dance.

Students must meet the published assessment criteria and therefore demonstrate they can confidently proceed to the next level. All candidates will pass an examination if the required standard has been attained.

If successful, the examiner will award one of three pass classifications (pass, merit or distinction) based on the performance seen on the day in accordance with the published assessment criteria.

Qualifications
Each candidate will receive a 'Result Form' showing the marks achieved. The marks achieved can be correlated to the criteria indicating to the students, teachers and parents the strengths of the candidate’s performance and the areas that need improvement. Successful candidates will receive a Certificate bearing their name and level of attainment.

Successful completion of the Intermediate examination give eligibility to the Academy's Certificate in Ballet Teaching Studies (CBTS) and two degree programmes offered by the Academy and validated by the University of Surrey. Vocational Graded Examinations qualifications are accredited in England, Wales and Northern Ireland by the QCA, DELLS and CCEA respectively and can be included in candidates Records of Achievement for Vocational Schools, Universities and Colleges of Higher Education and Employment.

It also provides eligibility for affiliate student membership of the Royal Academy of Dance, click here for more information on membership.

Successful completion of the Advanced 2 (formerly Advanced) examination gives eligibility for candidates who have reached the age of 18 years or over to apply to become an Associate of the Royal Academy of Dance and use the initials ARAD after their name.

Click here for the Handbook for Teachers: Vocational Graded Examinations

Entry Forms

Click here for form VEF1

Click here for form VEF2

Registration Forms

Please click on the links below.

Pupil Registration Form