Entrance exam

During the entrance exam, you will demonstrate your experience and level in music production. We will assess how quickly you can work with music software and hardware, as well as your musical knowledge and listening skills. We are also interested in your ideas for the future – and how you plan to use the programme to realise them.

You don’t need extensive experience yet; what matters most is that you have a solid foundation and can learn quickly.

The entrance exams take place between March and July. You will receive an email in advance with the exact date and time. The exam consists of an intake interview and a music theory test. 

Intake interview

The interview lasts 30 minutes and includes:

• A test of your ability to work with music software and hardware.
• A keyboard skills test – basic piano or keyboard ability is an advantage.
• A conversation about your motivation letter and productions. 

Music theory exam

If your intake interview and productions meet the required standard, you will complete an oral music theory test lasting 15 to 30 minutes. We will mainly look at your current experience and potential for growth. 

Admission requirements for music theory

You can find the full details in the Music Theory Requirements overview.

Tip: start early with ear training, sight-singing, notation, rhythm reading and writing, and harmonic listening. Also practise your general music theory knowledge to prepare well. 

Outcome and validity

At the end of the entrance exam, the Board of Examiners (made up of at least two lecturers) submits its recommendation to the Exam Board of the ArtEZ Academy of Music. The Exam Board checks that the procedure has been followed correctly and decides whether or not you will be offered admission. You may be placed on a waiting list. You will receive the results in writing.

A positive admission decision is valid only for the programme you applied for. If you wish to apply for a programme or specialisation at another location, you must register separately. Admission is valid only for the academic year immediately following the entrance exam. If you wish to start a year later, you can submit a written request to the Exam Board to keep your results valid for one additional year.

If you disagree with a negative admission decision or believe that incorrect procedures were followed during the admissions process, you may lodge an appeal with the Exam Board.