Top 5 Canadian Music Exam Boards: RCM vs ABRSM vs Others
- agnes9731
- 15 hours ago
- 8 min read
When a student or parent asks, “Which music exam board should we follow?” in Canada, the top names that come up are RCM and ABRSM. But beyond those two, there are several other credible boards worth knowing.
While many schools guide students toward certification, Greater Toronto Music School helps each learner choose the exam system that best fits their goals.
In this guide, we’ll look at the best music exam board Canada, including the top 5 music exam boards relevant to Canadian and international students. We’ll also cover why music exams matter, the strengths and trade-offs of each exam board, a comparison of RCM vs ABRSM, along with how Greater Toronto Music School can help.
By the end, you’ll have clarity on which system might be the best path for you and your musical growth.
Top 5 Canadian Music Exam Boards: RCM vs ABRSM vs Others: Quick Menu
The Basics: What Is a Music Exam Board?
Before we get into the details, it’s helpful to understand what a music exam board actually is. A music exam board is an organization that designs structured programs to help students track their musical progress through graded exams. These exams usually test performance, theory, ear training and other core skills.
In Canada, your choice of exam board often depends on your goals and learning style. The Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) is the most popular option for Canadian students, while ABRSM and Trinity College London are well-known internationally. Each one offers a clear pathway to develop your skills, gain confidence and grow as a musician.
Why Music Exams Matter
Before we get into the specific boards, it's helpful to know why so many students choose to take standardized music exams in the first place:
Structure and Measurable Goals
Exams provide you with concrete goals to work for, like Grade 1, Grade 2 and so on. This helps in keeping track of your progress, staying motivated and planning your practice.
National or International Credential
You can use a certificate, diploma or other proof of passing exams to get scholarships, audition for music programs at universities or even get into college.
Becoming a Well-Rounded Musician
Most exam boards want students to do more than just play well. They also focus on theory, sight-reading, ear training and sometimes music history. Learning all these skills together helps you grow into a confident, well-rounded musician.
Benchmarking and Feedback
A proper written report from an examiner tells you what you did well and what you could improve on.
Standardization and Comparability
Exams let students, teachers and schools compare levels of work across studios, regions or even countries.
With all that said, exams are optional. Many great musicians never take formal exams. But for students who thrive with goals, exams can add value when guided well.
The Top 5 Music Exam Boards in Canada
If you or your child are learning an instrument, you’ve probably heard teachers mention different exam boards, names like RCM, ABRSM or Trinity. Each of these organizations offers a structured path to measure progress, earn certifications and motivate students to keep growing as musicians. While they all share a similar purpose, they differ in their approach, style and recognition.
Let’s take a look at 5 of the most respected music exam boards available to Canadian students today.
#1. Royal Conservatory Canada Music
The Royal Conservatory of Music, or RCM, is Canada's most popular and generally recognized music exam system. For more than a century, the RCM, headquartered in Toronto, has helped students enhance their musical skills.
The RCM program is divided into levels, beginning with the "Preparatory" stage and progressing to Level 10, followed by the ARCT diploma, which indicates advanced musical ability. Each level contains performance pieces, technical exercises, sight-reading, ear training and theory sections.
One of the best things about the RCM is how clear and organized it is. Students and parents always know what’s expected at each level, which makes progress easy to see. It’s also highly respected in Canada, with some high schools even giving credit for certain RCM levels.
The RCM mainly focuses on classical music, but over time it has expanded to include more styles. It’s a great choice for students who like a structured, goal-based approach and want to earn a diploma that’s recognized across Canada.
#2. ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music)
The ABRSM, based in the United Kingdom, is one of the world's most prestigious music examination boards. It is known in over 90 countries and has a solid reputation for quality and consistency.
ABRSM exams are separated into Grades 1-8, followed by professional diplomas. Each exam consists of three performance pieces: scales, sight-reading and aural exams. One significant difference from the RCM is that students must complete a Grade 5 theory exam before progressing to the higher performance grades.
Many students appreciate ABRSM for its worldwide recognition. If you plan to study or perform internationally, or just want a credential that’s respected around the world, ABRSM is a great option.
It’s important to note that there are fewer ABRSM exam centres in Canada, so it’s a bit less convenient than RCM, but its global reputation and high standards make it worth considering, especially for students who want to measure their progress against international benchmarks.
#3. Trinity College London (TCL)
Trinity College London is another well-known U.K. exam board that offers a flexible and modern approach to music exams. Like ABRSM, it provides graded exams in both performance and theory, but Trinity stands out for giving students more freedom in their repertoire choices.
Trinity’s syllabus includes classical, pop, jazz and contemporary pieces, which makes it appealing to students who enjoy exploring different genres. The board also offers options to include improvisation or composition, allowing for creativity alongside technical growth.
For students who want a more relaxed, expressive exam experience or who prefer to perform modern pieces, Trinity is a great option. It’s also becoming more accessible thanks to online and recorded performance exams.
#4. London College of Music (LCM)
Next on our list is LCM. The London College of Music provides both in-person and digital music examinations. Like Trinity, it offers both classical and contemporary music options and is well-known for being adaptive to students musical interests.
LCM offers graded exams and diploma programs for many instruments and styles. Its digital exam option is perfect for students who prefer recording their performances at home instead of traveling to an exam centre.
Although it’s not as well-known in Canada as RCM or ABRSM, LCM is highly respected worldwide and a great choice for students looking for a modern, flexible way to take exams.
#5. Canadian National Conservatory of Music (CNCM)
Last but certainly not least is the CNCM. The Canadian National Conservatory of Music, or CNCM, is a smaller Canadian-based organization that focuses on community music-making and Canadian content. It’s a friendly, inclusive program that encourages students to enjoy the learning process rather than focus solely on scores or rankings.
CNCM’s syllabus includes many works by Canadian composers and emphasizes musical expression and enjoyment. While it may not have the same international recognition as RCM or ABRSM, it offers a welcoming environment for students who want to celebrate Canadian music and progress at their own pace.
For students who want a more relaxed local option, or for teachers who enjoy using Canadian repertoire, CNCM can be a great choice.
RCM vs ABRSM: Which Is Better?
There isn’t one “better” exam board, it really depends on your goals.
Feature | RCM | ABRSM |
Recognition | Widely recognized in Canada | Globally recognized |
Focus | Classical & modern styles | Classical-focused with theory requirement |
Exam Availability | Many centers in Canada | Fewer centers, may require travel |
Flexibility | Structured levels | Slightly less flexible, high standards |
If you want a qualification that’s well-recognized across Canada, RCM is the best fit. Many schools and music programs accept RCM certificates.
If you plan to study or perform internationally, ABRSM is a great choice because it’s respected around the world.
At Greater Toronto Music School, our teachers help students choose the board that best fits their goals. Some start with RCM, then switch to ABRSM or another board as they progress.
🎵 RCM vs ABRSM vs Trinity College London: Comparison Chart
Choosing the right exam board depends on your musical goals, preferred styles, and long-term plans. Here’s a side-by-side look at how the top three boards: RCM, ABRSM, and Trinity compare in structure, focus, and recognition.
Feature | RCM (Royal Conservatory of Music) | ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) | Trinity College London |
Headquarters | Toronto, Canada | London, U.K. | London, U.K. |
Grade Levels | Preparatory to Level 10 + ARCT | Grades 1–8 + Diplomas | Grades 1–8 + Diplomas |
Theory Requirement | Theory optional but recommended | Theory required (Grade 5 before higher levels) | Theory optional |
Exam Format | Performance, technical tests, ear training, sight-reading | Performance, scales, sight-reading, aural tests | Performance, improvisation/composition options, aural skills |
Music Styles | Primarily classical, some contemporary | Classical focus | Classical, jazz, pop, contemporary |
Flexibility in Repertoire | Structured and syllabus-driven | Traditional and structured | Highly flexible with song choice |
Online Exam Options | Yes (select levels) | Limited | Yes (digital and recorded exams) |
Global Recognition | High in Canada and U.S. | High worldwide | High worldwide, especially in modern music |
Best For | Students pursuing Canadian recognition or classical training | Students seeking international credentials | Students wanting flexible, creative, or modern exams |
How to Choose the Best Music Exam Board for You
Here are some simple tips to help you decide which music exam board fits your goals, learning style and future plans:
Consider Your Location and Access to Exams
If you live far from major centers, exam availability matters. RCM tends to have a stronger network across Canada. ABRSM, Trinity or LCM may require travel or remote exams.
Think About Your Musical Goals
Do you want to focus only on classical repertoire? Or include jazz, pop and improvisation? Some boards are more flexible in repertoire and style.
Ask Your Teacher for Guidance
A teacher who has experience with multiple boards can help you pick the right syllabus, pace and strategies. At Greater Toronto Music School, our instructors will tailor exam paths to each student’s strengths.
Music Exam Readiness Checklist
Before registering, use this checklist to evaluate readiness:
✓ Technical Skills: Can you play pieces confidently?
✓ Sight-Reading: Can you read new music fluently?
✓ Ear Training: Can you replicate short phrases by ear?
✓ Theory Knowledge: Are you prepared for theory tests?
✓ Performance Confidence: Can you perform without nerves?
✓ Practice Consistency: Are you practicing regularly?
✓ Teacher Feedback: Have you incorporated guidance effectively?
The FAQs About Music Exam Boards in Canada
You may still have questions, so here are some of the top FAQs we get about music exam boards:
Q: Are music exams mandatory for students?
A: No, music exams aren’t required. Many students learn and improve without taking them. Exams simply give structure and motivation to help you set goals and track your progress.
Q: Can I switch from one exam board to another?
A: Yes, a lot of students switch in the middle of the semester. Teachers can help figure out what levels are right for students and how to make the switch.
Q: Do RCM exams help with university applications?
A: Yes, in many parts of Canada, RCM qualifications (particularly Levels 6-8 or ARCT) are accepted for high school credit or taken into account when applying.
Q: What’s the easiest exam board for beginners?
A: The “easiest” depends on your learning style. Many beginners start with RCM or ABRSM because their levels are clear and structured, while Trinity and LCM offer a bit more flexibility for new students.
Q: Are there online options for music exams in Canada?
A: Yes, there are! The RCM now offers online exams for certain levels, making it easier for students to complete their assessments from home.
Get the Guidance You Need at Greater Toronto Music School
At Greater Toronto Music School, we help students build confidence and skill through personalized lessons and exam preparation. Our experienced teachers guide learners of all ages through technique, theory and performance, ensuring steady progress.
Whether you’re looking into the different board options, preparing for your first exam or advancing to higher levels, we’ll help you reach your goals. Start your musical journey with us today, give us a call or fill out a contact form!
