.jpg)
Choosing where to audition
Overseas auditions are not available for all courses and principal studies, for example interviews for composers and for the MSc in Performance Science are not available overseas. Application deadlines and audition dates vary between courses and venues, as does the availability of RCM accompanists. We recommend that you check the information below carefully before applying.
Please be aware that the RCM is not affiliated with any recruitment agents in the United Kingdom or internationally. If you need support with your application, you should contact our Admissions team.
How to apply
Applications for most courses are made via UCAS Conservatoires. This applies to all applicants, including international applicants. The only exceptions are if you are applying for our Doctoral Programme or Exchange Programme (see below).
Find out more about how to apply
UCAS Conservatoires application fees - 2026 entry
Using UCAS Conservatoires incurs a £28.95 application fee. This is in addition to our assessment fees. You cannot use another system and both the application and assessment fees are paid online through UCAS Conservatoires. If you encounter any problems with their payment system please contact the UCAS support team.
The main application deadline for most programmes for 2026 entry is 2 October 2025.
Late applications may be considered where places remain for the relevant course and/or principal study. Contact the Admissions Team before submitting a late application.
London audition fees
- Single study instrumentalists or vocalists: £115
- Single study composers: £115
- Single study conductors (postgraduate level only): £115
- Joint principal study (only available to BMus students): £165
Audition fee waivers are available for UK applicants to the BMus course from low income backgrounds. For further information on eligibility criteria please find out more on our BMus page.
London audition dates
Most London auditions will be held between mid-November to mid-December 2025. If places are still available a small number of late auditions may be held in February 2026.
Audition venue in London
London auditions are held at the Royal College of Music in South Kensington, London.
Accompanists in London
The RCM provides accompanists for our live auditions in London, although you are welcome to bring your own if you prefer. You do not normally need to let us know whether you need an accompanist (the only exception is if you are applying for Percussion). You do not need to provide your music in advance – our accompanists are very experienced and can play most standard repertoire. Don’t forget to bring a copy of the part for your accompanist on the day. If using RCM accompanists this must be in hard copy (digital parts are not permitted). You will have time to warm up together before the audition.
Video first round for conductors for 2026 entry
Conductors are assessed on the basis of a video submission in the first instance. Only those applicants are put through to the final round are invited to participate in a live audition, which is only available in London.
You should complete your UCAS Conservatoires application and submit your videos online via the RCM submission portal by the application deadline. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
See the conducting page for further information on how to prepare and submit your video audition.
If you cannot travel to London or one of our overseas audition locations you can submit a video audition instead. Video auditions are normally reviewed alongside the live London auditions in November/December and results released before Christmas. If you audition by video you can still be considered for RCM scholarships.
Application deadline for 2026 entry: 2 October 2025.
Late applications may be considered where places remain for the relevant principal study. Contact the Admissions team before submitting a late application.
- Step 1: submit an via UCAS Conservatoires by 2 October 2025
- Step 2: upload your video audition in the submission portal by 27 October 2025
Restrictions
Special application processes apply for the following courses and principal studies (please see the relevant course information page for details):
- MSc in Performance Science
- MMusEd Teaching Musician
- Doctor of Philosophy
How to audition by video
Candidates should prepare the same repertoire as candidates auditioning in person. Please refer to the audition requirements stipulated by the relevant faculty.
You can choose to submit one long video, or separate shorter videos. At the start of your video(s) please give a short spoken introduction, stating your name and the work you are about to perform (title, composer, movement). Video audition submissions may include more than one file from different performances. Audio only recordings will not be accepted.
Format
- Audio only recordings will not be accepted.
- Video audition submissions may include more than one file from different performances; indivdual excerpts should be uploaded as separate files
- Videos should not be edited or have any effects added.
- Make sure that you clearly label the files with the composer, work and movement.
- Each uploaded video file should not exceed 4GB. Acceptable file formats include MP4, MPEG, MPG, MOV, AVI, WMV, M4V, FLV, WEBM, MKV, M2V. Alternatively, you can upload links to YouTube.
Tips for preparing a good recording
- Your video constitutes your audition, so make sure that you are satisfied that it showcases you to the best of your ability.
- You may find it helpful to practice recording yourself and review your performance before filming your final video.
- Film your video in a well-lit location, with your camera placed on a stable surface.
- There are no dress requirements, but you should look professional.
- Make sure the reviewers can see what you are doing! For pianists, it is important that your fingers can be seen.
- Check the quality of your recording before submission.
Video auditions should be submitted via the RCM submission portal below.
Some applicants may be asked to participate in a short video interview after their audition recording is assessed. We will provide further information about this and about when you may need to be available after the submission deadline.
Successful applicants will have plenty of opportunity to speak to their Head of Faculty or other staff to find out more about studying at the RCM and how the College can support them in achieving their musical ambitions.
Application and portfolio submission deadline for 2026 entry: 2 October 2025.
Late applications may be considered where places remain for the relevant principal study. Contact the Admissions team before submitting a late application.
Consideration for scholarships
You will be considered for a scholarship whether attending an interview in person or online.
The application process for composers
Composers are assessed through a multi-stage process, primarily on the basis of their portfolio. Only those applicants whose portfolios demonstrate potential are put through to the second round and invited to participate in an interview, which may be in person in London or online.
Stage 1
- Submit an application via UCAS Conservatoires by 2 October 2025 AND
- Upload your portfolio in the RCM submission portal by 2 October 2025
You must complete your UCAS Conservatoires application and submit your portfolio online via the RCM submission portal by the application deadline. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Stage 2
- Shortlisted applicants will be invited to an interview in person in London or online. Interviews normally take place between mid-November / early December. Composition interviews are not available at our overseas venues.
Stage 3 (Composition for Screen applicants only)
- Shortlisted screen composers will be sent a short practical task to complete and submit before their interview.
See the Composition Faculty page for further information on how to prepare and submit your composition portfolio.
The application deadline for the MSc in Performance Science for 2026 entry is 14 January 2026.
Applications are reviewed by the Faculty after the deadline and shortlisted applicants will be invited to take part in an interview. Interviews for this course are online only.
The application deadline for auditions in Beijing is 2 October 2025.
Video pre-screening is in operation at this venue
Pre-screening videos must also be submitted by the application deadline (2 October 2025). Note this is earlier than the deadline for submission of videos for video-only applications.
Some auditions are not available in Beijing for 2026 entry
Candidates for the following principal studies cannot audition at this venue:
- Composition
- Composition for Screen
- Conducting
- Percussion
- Organ
- Historical instruments
Candidates for the following courses cannot audition/interview at this location:
- Master of Science in Performance Science
- MMusEd Teaching Musician
- Artist Diploma in Opera
- Doctor of Philosophy
Audition dates in Beijing for 2026 entry
Audition dates will be published here when confirmed.
Video pre-screening for performers for 2026 entry
Performers auditioning at the RCM’s overseas audition venues are subject to a two-stage assessment process:
Step 1: applicants submit their application on UCAS Conservatoires and a pre-screening audition video for assessment by the Faculty. Videos must be submitted by the application deadline for your application to be valid.
Step 2: shortlisted applicants are invited to attend a live audition.
If you have already submitted a pre-screening video and you are no longer able to attend a live audition at one of our overseas venues, or if the RCM decides it cannot hold live auditions at your chosen venue, your pre-screening video will be used as your video audition. You will not need to submit another video. Video auditions are assessed on the basis of the video submission and UCAS Conservatoires application; in some instances, applicants may also be asked to participate in an online interview.
Audition venue in Beijing for 2026 entry
Auditions will be held at Steinway Hall, Beijing.
Accompanists in Beijing for 2026 entry
The RCM does not provide an accompanist at this overseas audition venue.
Consideration for scholarships in Beijing for 2026 entry
Applicants will automatically be considered for scholarships as well as places. Eligibility for scholarships is based on merit which is determined by performance at audition. There is no need to submit a separate application.
The application deadline for auditions in Hong Kong is November 1, 2025.
Video pre-screening is in operation at this venue
Pre-screening videos must also be submitted by the application deadline (2 October 2025). Note this is earlier than the deadline for submission of videos for video-only applications.
Some auditions are not available in Hong Kong for 2026 entry
Candidates for the following principal studies cannot audition at this venue:
- Composition
- Composition for Screen
- Conducting
- Organ
- Percussion
- Historical instruments
Candidates for the following courses cannot audition/interview at this location:
- Master of Science in Performance Science
- MMus Ed Teaching Music
- Artist Diploma in Opera
- Doctor of Philosophy
Auditions in Hong Kong are expected to be held on 14 January 2026
Video pre-screening for performers for 2026 entry
Performers auditioning at the RCM’s overseas audition venues are subject to a two-stage assessment process:
Step 1: applicants submit their application on UCAS Conservatoires and a pre-screening audition video for assessment by the Faculty. Videos must be submitted by the application deadline for your application to be valid.
Step 2: shortlisted applicants are invited to attend a live audition.
If you have already submitted a pre-screening video and you are no longer able to attend a live audition at one of our overseas venues, or if the RCM decides it cannot hold live auditions at your chosen venue, your pre-screening video will be used as your video audition. You will not need to submit another video. Video auditions are assessed on the basis of the video submission and UCAS Conservatoires application; in some instances, applicants may also be asked to participate in an online interview.
Audition venue in Hong Kong for 2026 entry
Auditions will be held at Cheng Wai Piano Institute, Hong Kong.
Accompanists in Hong Kong for 2026 entry
The RCM does not provide an accompanist at this overseas audition venue.
Consideration for scholarships in Hong Kong for 2026 entry
Applicants will automatically be considered for scholarships as well as places. Eligibility for scholarships is based on merit which is determined by performance at audition. There is no need to submit a separate application.
The application deadline for auditions in Shanghai is October 2, 2025.
Video pre-screening is in operation at this venue
Pre-screening videos must also be submitted by the application deadline (2 October 2025). Note this is earlier than the deadline for submission of videos for video-only applications.
Some auditions are not available in Shanghai for 2026 entry
Candidates for the following principal studies cannot audition at this venue:
- Composition
- Composition for Screen
- Conducting
- Organ
- Percussion
- Historical instruments
Candidates for the following courses cannot audition/interview at this location:
- Master of Science in Performance Science
- MMus Ed Teaching Music
- Artist Diploma in Opera
- Doctor of Philosophy
Audition dates in Shanghai for 2026 entry
Shanghai auditions are expected to be held in November 2025.
Video pre-screening for performers for 2026 entry
Performers auditioning at the RCM’s overseas audition venues are subject to a two-stage assessment process:
Step 1: applicants submit their application on UCAS Conservatoires and a pre-screening audition video for assessment by the Faculty. Videos must be submitted by the application deadline for your application to be valid.
Step 2: shortlisted applicants are invited to attend a live audition.
If you have already submitted a pre-screening video and you are no longer able to attend a live audition at one of our overseas venues, or if the RCM decides it cannot hold live auditions at your chosen venue, your pre-screening video will be used as your video audition. You will not need to submit another video. Video auditions are assessed on the basis of the video submission and UCAS Conservatoires application; in some instances, applicants may also be asked to participate in an online interview.
Audition venue in Shanghai for 2026 entry
Auditions will be held at Steinway, Shanghai.
Accompanists in Shanghai for 2026 entry
The RCM does not provide an accompanist at this overseas audition venue.
Consideration for scholarships in Shanghai for 2026 entry
Applicants will automatically be considered for scholarships as well as places. Eligibility for scholarships is based on merit which is determined by performance at audition. There is no need to submit a separate application.
The application deadline for auditions in Tokyo is October 2, 2025.
Video pre-screening is in operation at this venue
Pre-screening videos must also be submitted by the application deadline (2 October 2025). Note this is earlier than the deadline for submission of videos for video-only applications.
Some auditions are not available in Tokyo for 2026 entry
Candidates for the following principal studies cannot audition at this venue:
- Composition
- Composition for Screen
- Conducting
- Organ
- Percussion
- Historical instruments
Candidates for the following courses cannot audition/interview at this location:
- Master of Science in Performance Science
- MMus Ed Teaching Music
- Artist Diploma in Opera
- Doctor of Philosophy
Audition dates in Tokyo for 2026 entry
To be confirmed
Video pre-screening for performers for 2026 entry
Performers auditioning at the RCM’s overseas audition venues are subject to a two-stage assessment process:
Step 1: applicants submit their application on UCAS Conservatoires and a pre-screening audition video for assessment by the Faculty. Videos must be submitted by the application deadline for your application to be valid.
Step 2: applicants short-listed by the panel are invited to attend a live audition.
If you have already submitted a pre-screening video and you are no longer able to attend a live audition at one of our overseas venues, or if the RCM decides it cannot hold live auditions at your chosen venue, your pre-screening video will be used as your video audition. You will not need to submit another video. Video auditions are assessed on the basis of the video submission and UCAS Conservatoires application; in some instances, applicants may also be asked to participate in an online interview.
Audition venue in Tokyo for 2026 entry
To be confirmed
Accompanists in Tokyo for 2026 entry
The RCM does not provide an accompanist at this overseas audition venue.
Consideration for scholarships in Tokyo for 2026 entry
Applicants will be considered for scholarships as well as places. Eligibility for scholarships is based on merit which is determined by performance at audition. There is no need to submit a separate application.
The application deadline for auditions in Singapore is November 1, 2025.
Video pre-screening is in operation at this venue
Pre-screening videos must be submitted by the application deadline (November 1, 2025).
Some auditions are not available in Singapore for 2026 entry
Candidates for the following principal studies cannot audition at this venue:
- Composition
- Composition for Screen
- Conducting
- Organ
- Percussion
- Historical instruments
Candidates for the following courses cannot audition/interview at this location:
- Master of Science in Performance Science
- MMus Ed Teaching Musician
- Artist Diploma in Opera
- Doctor of Philosophy
Audition dates in Singapore for 2026 entry
Auditions are expected to be held in Singapore on 11 January 2026.
Video pre-screening for performers for 2026 entry
Performers auditioning at the RCM’s overseas audition venues are subject to a two-stage assessment process:
Step 1: applicants submit their application on UCAS Conservatoires and a pre-screening audition video for assessment by the Faculty. Videos must be submitted by the application deadline for your application to be valid.
Step 2: applicants short-listed by the panel are invited to attend a live audition.
If you have already submitted a pre-screening video and you are no longer able to attend a live audition at one of our overseas venues, or if the RCM decides it cannot hold live auditions at your chosen venue, your pre-screening video will be used as your video audition. You will not need to submit another video. Video auditions are assessed on the basis of the video submission and UCAS Conservatoires application; in some instances, applicants may also be asked to participate in an online interview.
Audition venue in Singapore for 2026 entry
Auditions will be held at Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA), Singapore.
Accompanists in Singapore for 2026 entry
The RCM does not provide an accompanist at this overseas audition venue.
Consideration for scholarships in Singapore for 2026 entry
Applicants will automatically be considered for scholarships as well as places. Eligibility for scholarships is based on merit, which is determined by performance at audition. There is no need to submit a separate application.
The application deadline for auditions in Seoul is October 2, 2025.
Video pre-screening is in operation at this venue
Pre-screening videos must be submitted by the application deadline (October 2, 2025). Note this is earlier than the deadline for submission of videos for video-only applications.
Some auditions are not available in Seoul for 2026 entry
Candidates for the following principal studies cannot audition at this venue:
- Composition
- Composition for Screen
- Conducting
- Organ
- Percussion
- Historical instruments
Candidates for the following courses cannot audition/interview at this location:
- Master of Science in Performance Science
- MMus Ed Teaching Musician
- Artist Diploma in Opera
- Doctor of Philosophy
Audition dates in Seoul for 2026 entry
Seoul auditions will be held in November 2025 (exact dates to be confirmed).
Video pre-screening for performers for 2026 entry
Performers auditioning at the RCM’s overseas audition venues are subject to a two-stage assessment process:
Step 1: applicants submit their application on UCAS Conservatoires and a pre-screening audition video for assessment by the Faculty. Videos must be submitted by the application deadline for your application to be valid.
Step 2: applicants short-listed by the panel are invited to attend a live audition.
If you have already submitted a pre-screening video and you are no longer able to attend a live audition at one of our overseas venues, or if the RCM decides it cannot hold live auditions at your chosen venue, your pre-screening video will be used as your video audition. You will not need to submit another video. Video auditions are assessed on the basis of the video submission and UCAS Conservatoires application; in some instances, applicants may also be asked to participate in an online interview.
Audition venue in Seoul for 2026 entry
Auditions will be held at Cosmos Hall, Seoul.
Accompanists in Seoul for 2026 entry
The RCM does not provide an accompanist at this overseas audition venue.
Consideration for scholarships in Seoul for 2026 entry
Applicants will be considered for scholarships as well as places. Eligibility for scholarships is based on merit which is determined by performance at audition. There is no need to submit a separate application.
The application deadline for auditions in Bangkok is November 1, 2025.
Video pre-screening is in operation at this venue
Pre-screening videos must be submitted by the application deadline (November 1, 2025).
Some auditions are not available in Bangkok for 2026 entry
Candidates for the following principal studies cannot audition at this venue:
- Composition
- Composition for Screen
- Conducting
- Organ
- Percussion
- Historical instruments
Candidates for the following courses cannot audition/interview at this location:
- Master of Science in Performance Science
- MMus Ed Teaching Musician
- Artist Diploma in Opera
- Doctor of Philosophy
Audition dates in Bangkok for 2026 entry
To be confirmed
Video pre-screening for performers for 2026 entry
Performers auditioning at the RCM’s overseas audition venues are subject to a two-stage assessment process:
Step 1: applicants submit their application on UCAS Conservatoires and a pre-screening audition video for assessment by the Faculty. Videos must be submitted by the application deadline for your application to be valid.
Step 2: applicants short-listed by the panel are invited to attend a live audition.
If you have already submitted a pre-screening video and you are no longer able to attend a live audition at one of our overseas venues, or if the RCM decides it cannot hold live auditions at your chosen venue, your pre-screening video will be used as your video audition. You will not need to submit another video. Video auditions are assessed on the basis of the video submission and UCAS Conservatoires application; in some instances, applicants may also be asked to participate in an online interview.
Audition venue in Bangkok for 2026 entry
To be confirmed
Accompanists in Bangkok for 2026 entry
The RCM does not provide an accompanist at this overseas audition venue.
Consideration for scholarships in Bangkok for 2026 entry
Applicants will automatically be considered for scholarships as well as places. Eligibility for scholarships is based on merit, which is determined by performance at audition. There is no need to submit a separate application.
The application deadline for auditions in New York is November 1, 2025.
Video pre-screening is in operation at this venue
Pre-screening videos must be submitted by the application deadline (November 1, 2025).
Some auditions are not available in New York for 2026 entry
Candidates for the following principal studies cannot audition at this venue:
- Composition
- Composition for Screen
- Conducting
- Organ
- Percussion
- Historical instruments
Candidates for the following courses cannot audition/interview at this location:
- Master of Science in Performance Science
- MMus Ed Teaching Musician
- Doctor of Philosophy
- Artist Diploma in Opera
Audition dates in New York for 2026 entry
Auditions in New York are expected to be held on 4 and 5 February 2026
Video pre-screening for performers for 2026 entry
Performers auditioning at the RCM’s overseas audition venues are subject to a two-stage assessment process:
Step 1: applicants submit their application on UCAS Conservatoires and a pre-screening audition video for assessment by the Faculty. Videos must be submitted by the application deadline for your application to be valid.
Step 2: applicants short-listed by the panel are invited to attend a live audition.
If you have already submitted a pre-screening video and you are no longer able to attend a live audition at one of our overseas venues, or if the RCM decides it cannot hold live auditions at your chosen venue, your pre-screening video will be used as your video audition. You will not need to submit another video. Video auditions are assessed on the basis of the video submission and UCAS Conservatoires application; in some instances, applicants may also be asked to participate in an online interview.
Audition venue in New York for 2026 entry
The DiMenna Centre for Classical Music, New York
Accompanists in New York for 2026 entry
If you require an accompanist and cannot bring your own the RCM can provide an accompanist for you. You do not normally need to let us know whether you need an accompanist or to provide copies of the music in advance. Please remember to bring a hard copy of the music for the accompanist, digital music is not permitted.
Consideration for scholarships in New York for 2026 entry
Applicants will automatically be considered for scholarships as well as places. Eligibility for scholarships is based on merit, which is determined by performance at audition. There is no need to submit a separate application.
The application deadline for auditions in Australia is October 2, 2025.
Video pre-screening is in operation at this venue
Pre-screening videos must be submitted by the application deadline (October 2, 2025). Note this is earlier than the deadline for submission of videos for video-only applications.
Some auditions are not available in Australia for 2026 entry
Candidates for the following principal studies cannot audition at this venue:
- Composition
- Composition for Screen
- Conducting
- Organ
- Percussion
- Historical instruments
Candidates for the following courses cannot audition/interview at this location:
- Master of Science in Performance Science
- MMus Ed Teaching Musician
- Doctor of Philosophy
- Artist Diploma in Opera
Audition dates in Australia for 2026 entry
To be confirmed
Audition venue in Australia for 2026 entry
To be confirmed
Accompanists in Australia for 2026 entry
The RCM does not provide an accompanist at this overseas audition venue.
RCM accompanist availability at this venue is to be confirmed. You are, of course, welcome to provide your own accompanist.
Consideration for scholarships in Australia for 2026 entry
Applicants will automatically be considered for scholarships as well as places. Eligibility for scholarships is based on merit, which is determined by performance at audition. There is no need to submit a separate application.
Non-UCAS Conservatoires applications
Doctoral programme
Application deadline for 2026 entry: 27 November 2025
Applications should be submitted directly via the RCM’s online submission portal, Get Acceptd. Doctoral applicants are assessed through a two-stage process, initially on the basis of the research proposal. Only those applicants whose proposals demonstrate potential are invited to an online interview. For full details on the application process and guidance on preparing a research proposal, see the PhD course page.
Exchange programme
Application deadline for 2026 entry: 31 March 2025
Applications should be submitted directly via the RCM’s online submission portal, Get Acceptd. No live auditions are required, but applicants must submit a recorded audition or composition portfolio. For full details on the application process and guidance on preparing your application see the Exchanges course pages.
Audition requirements
Audition requirements are set by each faculty. Further information can be found by following the links below.
Composition audition requirements
Conducting audition requirements (postgraduate level only)
Historical Performance audition requirements
Keyboard audition requirements
Speak to our Admissions team
If you would like to talk to someone about applying to the Royal College of Music, our audition process or our expected standards, feel free to contact our friendly Admissions team who will be happy to advise you.
Royal College of Music
Prince Consort Road
London SW7 2BS
United Kingdom
Registered charity No. 309268
