two male and two female students taking their RAD exams in character skirts

RAD | Dance exams

Dance exams

Every year, nearly a quarter of a million candidates are entered for our dance exams by their RAD Teachers, in over 80 countries across the globe.

We offer a wide range of dance exams and assessments to motivate and reward students of all ages and abilities and provide opportunities for progression and achievement. It’s not just professional or young dancers who take our exams and age is no barrier to success. You can develop your fitness, musicality and artistry at any stage of your life. Our candidates range in age from 2 to 80+!

Recognised for their quality, Graded and Vocational Graded RAD exams and solo performance awards are awarded as qualifications accredited on the frameworks outlined below.

RAD maroon flourish

Graded Exams –
Primary to Grade 8

The content is based on the development of classical ballet technique with the inclusion of character dance from Grade 1. All students who are successful at RAD exams receive a security-enhanced certificate and a medal.

Solo Performance Awards –
Grade 1-7

Students perform three solo
pieces in the exam and have the opportunity to bring in different dance genres and choreography.

Vocational Graded Syllabus – Intermediate Foundation – Solo Seal

With an emphasis on technique, musicality and performance, these exams are designed for students who want to study classical ballet in greater depth.

Discovering Repertoire – Level 2-4

A qualification split into three units which students can take over a period of time. There is a class unit and two units based on the development of solo repertoire variation. 

For those students who feel the pressure of accredited ballet exams is not appropriate for them, we also offer a range of unaccredited assessments enabling all students to receive recognition for their achievements. These also provide great practice for exams should the student choose to move towards those in future.

young students taking RAD exams

Demonstration classes

Based on our pre-school dance curriculum, Dance to your Own Tune, demonstration classes involve a short performance from each student who then receives a certificate of participation as a mark of their personal achievement.

Class Awards –
Pre-Primary to Grade 8

Class award syllabus (a selection of exercises and one dance), led by the teacher.

Class Awards from Pre-Primary in Dance to Grade 7 are conducted by the teacher or an assistant, with the examiner assessing the class. For Grade 8, the examiner conducts the class and this follows the same format as the exam.

Before your exam

We know that dance exams can be nerve-wracking, so to help make them easier for you, we’ve compiled all our most important information into one place.

Find out everything you need to know before taking your exam, from fees to uniforms, to timetables.

After your exam

Congratulations on completing your RAD exam. To learn more about what happens after, see the link below for a more detailed breakdown.

Find information on the next syllabus/stage, certificates and medals, special consideration, and accreditation.

Information for dance teachers

Focus on Exams

Focus on Exams is our digital publication with features on all things exam-related. Published three times a year, it offers information for teachers, students, and examiners along with all the latest updates from our Exams team.

Alongside practical tips and resources, you’ll discover inspiring stories from fellow dancers worldwide who have achieved their own exam milestones. Gain insights from experts, learn techniques to help you refine your skills, and find motivation to overcome any challenges that come your way. Focus on Exams is more than just a resource; it’s a community dedicated to helping you succeed and celebrate each accomplishment on your dance path. Dive in and make every step toward your exam count!

3 young dancers looking into an RAD studio

Safeguarding at the RAD

If you have any worries at all about your wellbeing and safety, or that of a student, teacher, or a member of staff, you can find help and guidance on safeguarding here, along with information on who to contact.