Strings
Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Classical Guitar, Harp
A wide range of string instrument assessments are available (including Classical Guitar and Harp) suitable for beginners through to advanced levels. Harp candidates from Grade 5 to Certificate of Performance can choose to be examined on either Lever Harp or Pedal Harp.
Grade exams
Grade exams can be taken from Preliminary to Certificate of Performance. Comprehensive exams include a variety of elements, including Technical Work, Aural and Sight-Reading Tests and a General Knowledge section, while Repertoire exam candidates are only required to perform a selection of pieces.
Diploma exams
Diploma exams are available for the advanced performer. AMEB offers Associate and Licentiate Diploma exams.
Peformance evaluations
Performance evaluations are available for students who may want to be independently assessed, but without the formality of an exam. They choose a program of pieces with either a 15- or 30-minute duration and receive a written report, but no grade / result.
Exams and Assessments
| Type of assessment | Face-to-face assessment | Pre-recorded video assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Evaluations | Y | Y |
| Graded exams, Comprehensive | Y | N |
| Graded exams, Repertoire | Y | Y |
| Certificate of Performance /Diploma exams | Y | N |
Some assessments can only be taken face-to-face, while some allow for assessment by pre-recorded video.
Fees - 2026
Preliminary
$110.00
Grade 1
$119.00
Grade 2
$126.00
Grade 3
$140.00
Grade 4
$149.00
Grade 5
$158.00
Grade 6
$179.00
Grade 7
$212.00
Grade 8
$245.00
Certificate of Performance
$273.00
Associate in Music
$425.00
Licentiate in Music
$560.00
All prices are in Australian dollars and include GST.
Syllabuses
Syllabuses are available for the following String instruments.
| String syllabuses | ||
| Cello | Classical Guitar | Double Bass |
| Harp | Viola | Violin |
AMEB string exams are conducted by examiners who are specialists in their field.
Enrolling for exams
Violin, Viola, Cello, Double Bass and Classical Guitar exams are offered in five Metropolitan Practical Sessions and two Regional Practical Sessions. The session dates for Harp exams in 2026 are to be confirmed.
Diploma exams are held at the AMEB Studios in Hawthorn: Associate exams are available in each of the five Metropolitan Practical Sessions; Licentiate exams are offered in July and September.
Exam Requirements
It is essential that teachers and candidates consult the current syllabus for details of specific exam requirements and regulations. AMEB syllabuses are now available as free digital downloads. Choose from a single instrument syllabus, syllabuses grouped by instrument family or the complete Manual of Syllabuses.
Support Materials
AMEB produces a range of publications to support teaching and learning and these are listed in the current Manual of Syllabuses (Music Syllabuses). Supplementary materials are also available to support the development of aural skills, theoretical knowledge, etc. Visit the AMEB shop here.
Stay in touch
AMEB Victoria acknowledges Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as the Traditional Custodians of the land and acknowledges and pays respect to their Elders, past, present and emerging.
