Key Factors
1. Pre-screening videos:
• Different schools and majors have different repertoire requirements for video submission. The preparation of audition repertoire normally takes at least one to two years for preparation. Therefore, early planning is strongly advised.
• Audition performance is the main deciding factor in a successful application, with the video being the focal point in most schools’preliminary selection process. Thus it is crucial that audition repertoire be prepared with the guidance of a qualified teacher that understands and can meet the rigorous requirements of prestigious schools.
2. Live Audition:
• After the pre-selection, most music schools will also require a second round of interviews and live performances.
• Students must demonstrate their intelligence and eagerness to learn in their interviews.
• The live performance should not only reflect the applicant's superb technical skills, but also highlight their personality as an individual.
3. Recommendation Letter:
• Recommendation letters from renowned teachers can become a deciding factor should the performance level of candidates be particularly high in a given year.
• A strong recommendation letter may help examiners overlook flaws if the recommendation clearly articulates the student’s progress and capability of improvement.
4. Background Qualifications:
• The results of various domestic and international competitions that students have participated in
• Various solo, ensemble concerts, benefit performances and other musical activities that students have participated in
• Music summer camps, master classes that students have attended
• A portfolio demonstrating participation in the above mentioned activities gives a quick and effective overview of the student’s experience. Visiting international summer camps can also introduce students to famous musicians, many of whom sit on the selection committees of prestigious schools.
5. English Tests:
• Students studying in high school in a country where English is not their native language must take language tests such as TOEFL or IELTS.
• A student studying in an English-speaking country for four years of high school may be exempted from English language tests.
• Canada's top universities require IELTS scores of not less than 6.5 points, TOEFL scores of not less than 90 points.
• Music schools have slightly lower TOEFL and IELTS score requirements than comprehensive universities, but a minimum score must still be met.
• It is important to begin English language study as early as possible, not only to meet testing requirements, but also to ensure one fully participate in coursework when accepted.
6. Academic Requirments:
• Music schools generally have lower requirements for academic GPA than universities.
• Different schools have different academic requirements so early planning is recommended to ensure that the requirements are met.
• The current trend is that music and art colleges are starting to look for more well rounded individuals as candidates for study, meaning academic achievement is becoming more of a factor in the deciding process.