Recorded Exam Submission

RIAM offers a flexible Recorded Exam option for candidates who prefer to submit performance videos rather than attend in-person assessments. This applies across both Music and Drama & Communication syllabi.

Exam Options

When applying, you can choose:

• Recorded Exams (Grade or Recital) – Submit your video performance during one of two designated upload periods.
• Live Exams (Grade or Recital) – Select your nearest centre and note any inconvenient dates (accommodation not guaranteed).
• Online Theory Exams – Choose 'Theory' when applying. All theory exams are conducted online.

Preparing Your Digital Exam

What to Record

• Music: Perform all required pieces and technical elements (e.g., scales, arpeggios) in a single take where possible. 
• Drama: Include all performance elements (drama, poetry, prose, mime, improvisation, sight-reading). No need to record the theory or discussion section.

Refer to your syllabus for full requirements.

Accompaniment (Music Exams Only)

Accompaniment is required for Voice, Strings, and Woodwind/Brass exams. Options:

• Live piano accompaniment
• Pre-recorded/backing track
• A combination of both

Video Recording Guidance

• Position the camera to show full body and facial expression for Drama; hands and instrument for Music.
• Use a single continuous take where possible. Separate takes may be used for different pieces (except for technical exercises, which must be unedited).
• For under-18s: A parent/guardian must be present and briefly introduce themselves on camera (but not during performance).

Helpful Tip: Treat the camera as your examiner – maintain performance standard and expression as in a live exam.

Submitting Your Video

Use the links to upload your performance. You’ll be guided to select the correct upload form based on your exam type (Music or Drama, Grade or Recital).

Required formats: MP4 or MOV
Include candidate name, grade, and subject in the filename.

Upload Windows:

• Choose your upload period during the application process.
• Record in advance or closer to the deadline – your choice.

Please find the links to the submission pages you require to submit your Recorded Video Exam Submission below. Please make sure you choose the correct link for your exam type.

If you require any information regarding the Recorded Exam Submission process or the exam criteria please contact examsoffice@riam.ie

Important: If you are submitting a Grade Exam, You will be asked for your teachers marks when uploading your video. Marking Guidelines for Teachers

Elementary – Grade V only

• Sight-reading  
• Aural 
• Theory 

Grade VI, VII, and VIII

• Sight-reading 
• Aural & Theoretical combined 

If missing or incorrect marks are submitted results will take longer to be released. Please contact examsoffice@riam.ie