Online Theory Exams
Dates & Times for Theory Exams, Summer 2023
- Preparatory Grade to Grade V (Music) : Monday 15th May, 12pm - Thursday 18th May, 10pm (exam candidates can login and begin their exam anytime)
- Grade 6, 7, 8 and Senior Certificate (Music) : Saturday 13th May, 12pm - 6pm (exam papers must be downloaded in advance, then completed and uploaded during this period)
- Senior Certificate (Drama) : Saturday 13th May, 12pm - 6pm (exam candidates can login and begin their exam anytime)
Preparatory Grade to Grade V (Music) Information
Exams are timed, a countdown clock will begin as soon as the candidates click 'START'. You can find how much time you have left in the top right hand corner of the screen.
Candidates will be presented with 50 questions, and are expected to attempt all before submitting. Candidates do not require a Theory resource paper, and will not be expected to upload pictures of worksheets.
Once candidates have answered or viewed each of the 50 questions, in order, they will be able to review and edit answers before submitting their exam.
Candidates who successfully complete their online exam and click submit will receive a result immediately.
Whilst practice papers are free and readily available without logging in, candidates who have applied for an exam will be expected to follow a logging in process. You will be contacted prior to the exam with logging in information.
Preparatory to Grade V Practice Papers
In order for teachers and candidates to become more familiar with the online theory experience we have created free to access practice papers. These can be accessed by anyone, wether or not you are booked for an upcoming exam. Teachers may wish to use these as a useful learning tool to test their own students, in advance of sitting an upcoming RIAM Exams Theory assessment.
RIAM Exams Practice Theory Papers
RIAM Exams Practice Theory Papers
Grade 6, 7, 8 and Senior Certificate Music Theory
Exam papers must be downloaded in advance and completed between 12pm - 6pm on Saturday 13th May 2023. Once your paper has been completed you must scan the document and upload before 6pm on the same day.
Candidates should follow this step-by-step process:
- Download the correct Grade paper from the links immediately below
- Print the paper off in advance, and then complete the paper from 12pm on the 13th May
- Upload a scanned version of your completed exam by 6pm on the 13th May, to the link further below
Past Papers (Winter 2022):
Grade 6, 7, 8 and Senior Certificate Theory Paper Upload Link
Grade 6, 7, 8 and Senior Certificate Theory Paper Upload Link
Information for Speech & Drama Theory
- The paper will be provided completely online, you do not require a Theory Resource Paper
- The format and question type of the exam will remain as before, but answers must be typed onto the online system
- You are recommended to have a pencil/pen and paper, read the questions on the screen online, and prepare your answers on paper
- You will be permitted to login in advance to test the system, and we will contact you with details
- Younger candidates should have the help of a parent/guardian in helping them navigate the system and assist in the uploading of answers
- Candidates aged 16 and under should have an adult present when completing the exam
- We provide accessible options for special needs candidates, please contact examsoffice@riam.ie if you require further information on this
Information for Music Theory
You will need access to;
- A smartphone, tablet, or PC that has good internet access. We recommend you use a tablet or computer to access the system
- Paper and pencils (Grade 6 to Senior Certificate only)
Preparatory Grade to Grade V Music, and Senior Cert Drama Theory
- Questions that can be answered on the screen (by typing letters/numbers)
Grade 6, 7, 8 and Senior Certificate Music Theory
- Questions that can be answered on a paper, downloaded in advance, and uploaded after completion
- There is no specialised music notation software required for the exam, or additional specialised hardware
- Younger candidates should have the help of a parent/guardian in helping them navigate the system and assist in the uploading of answers
- Candidates aged 16 and under should have an adult present when completing the exam
- We provide accessible options for special needs candidates, please contact examsoffice@riam.ie if you require further information on this
- You can login in advance and trial a test paper, as many times as you wish
- Exam papers must be printed off and completed
- Candidates should complete the exam on the day, within the given duration
- Completed exam papers should be scanned and uploaded for correction
- Please ensure you check your answers, and that your writing is clear enough for scanning