A illustration of a collection of different instrument outlines in black against a blue background

Feedback, Complaints & Appeals

At RIAM Exams, we are committed to delivering a fair and positive experience for every candidate. We welcome all feedback and take complaints seriously, using them to help improve our services.

Whether you're seeking clarity on a result, have concerns about an exam experience, or simply want to share your feedback, we’re here to listen.

Appeals: Exam Results

If you wish to formally appeal an exam result, we have a structured process in place. Appeals are reviewed by senior examiners not involved in the original assessment.

Please note:

  • Appeals for ‘live’ exams (in-person) cannot lead to mark changes, unless a clear administrative error (e.g. calculation) has occurred.
  • Appeals for ‘recorded’ exams and written Theory & Harmony exams can result in revised marks following independent review.

How to Submit an Appeal

  1. Complete the Exam Appeals Submission Form below.
  2. Include the following:
    • Name of the candidate
    • Name and contact details of the person submitting the appeal
    • Relationship to the candidate (e.g. teacher, parent)
    • Exam/application number
    • Venue (write "Online" if it was a video exam)
    • Brief reason for appeal (up to 150 characters)
  3. After submitting the form, forward the candidate's mark sheet as a .jpg or .pdf in reply to the automatic confirmation email.
    Please do not send original documents by post.

Important: Appeals must be received within 21 days of receiving the result sheet. Submissions after this date will be reviewed internally, but we cannot guarantee a formal response.

Exam Appeal Submission Form

What Happens Next

Once we receive your appeal or complaint:

  • You’ll receive an acknowledgment within 30 days (feedback) or 40 working days (appeals).
  • A senior member of staff or examiner—independent of the original assessment—will conduct the review.
  • We may contact you for further information.
  • You will be informed of the outcome once the review is complete.

Appeal Outcomes

For Live Exams:

  • The examiner’s work is reviewed, including marking consistency and commentary.
  • If appropriate, the examiner may be asked to provide a response (this may or may not be shared with the appellant).
  • The outcome may result in:
    • Original mark upheld, or
    • Appeal upheld, with the original exam fee refunded or credited towards a future exam.

For Recorded Exams:

  • The performance is reassessed by a senior examiner.
  • Marks may be revised where appropriate.
  • Outcomes:
    • Original mark upheld, or
    • Revised mark issued

Feedback or Complaints

If you have a concern about your exam day, the venue, the examiner, or any other aspect of your experience, we encourage you to get in touch as soon as possible.

Please email exam.feedback@riam.ie and include:

  • Your name, address, and contact details (mobile and/or email)
  • Whether you’re submitting the complaint on behalf of yourself or someone else (e.g. a student)
  • The name of the candidate and, if possible, their candidate number or date of birth
  • The exam venue and date
  • A brief summary of your feedback or complaint (up to 150 characters)
  • If your feedback concerns a specific individual, please include their name (if known)

For exam day issues, please contact us within 7 days of the exam. We aim to respond within 40 days.

Final Note

Your feedback helps us maintain a fair, transparent, and high-quality exam experience. We truly value your input and thank you for taking the time to get in touch.

Corporate Policies

Our corporate and safeguarding policies support all aspects of our exam delivery. You can view them here.