Taking the ABRSM Online Music Theory Exam? Here’s What to Expect

For students taking ABRSM Music Theory Grades 1–5, the exams are conducted online. While the process may seem unfamiliar at first, understanding the steps beforehand can help students feel more confident and prepared on exam day.
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In this guide, we share what students should expect before and during the online exam, along with helpful tips to ensure a smooth experience.

​Before the Exam: Preparing Your Setup

Before exam day, students should make sure everything is ready.

You will need:

• A computer or laptop (phones or tablets are not allowed)
• A photo identification, such as the ABRSM Candidate ID form or passport
• Blank writing paper, if needed during the exam
• A completed system check to ensure your computer works with the exam software

​It is recommended to complete the system check in advance to avoid technical issues on the day of the exam.

​Starting the Exam

When the student is ready to begin, they can click “Start Music Theory Exam” on the ABRSM dashboard or booking details page.

Students will have three hours to complete the entire process, including the setup and the exam itself.

​During the setup stage, students will:

• Download and install the PSI Bridge exam software
• Test the microphone and camera
• Close any applications that are not allowed during the exam
• Agree to the privacy agreement, as the session will be recorded for review by a proctor

​This process helps ensure that the exam is conducted fairly and securely.

Identity and Room Checks

Before the exam begins, students will need to complete a few verification steps.

​These include:

• Taking a photo of their identification
• Taking a photo of themselves for identity verification
• Completing four room scans using the computer camera

If the computer cannot be moved, students may use a phone to record the room and then play the video back to the computer camera. After that, the phone must be placed out of reach.

During the Exam

Before starting the exam, students must show both sides of their blank writing paper to the camera.

​Exam durations are:

• Grades 1–3: 90 minutes
• Grades 4–5: 120 minutes

​Students may encounter different types of questions in the exam, including:

• Multiple choice
• Drag and drop
• Fill in the blank
• Matching questions

​If students are unsure about a question, they can flag it and return to it later.

​Breaks During the Exam

Students are allowed one 5-minute toilet break during the exam.

​Before leaving the desk, they should either:

• Say clearly to the camera: “I am taking a toilet break”, or
• Write it on a piece of paper and show it to the camera.

If Technical Issues Occur

Occasionally, technical issues may happen during an online exam.

​If this occurs, students should remain calm and avoid clicking “End Test” or “End Session.”
Instead, they can:

• Close the exam software
• Re-access the exam through their ABRSM account

​If further assistance is needed, students can contact PSI support through the Live Chat feature.

After the Exam

When the exam is completed, students should:

• Tear up any paper used during the exam in front of the camera
• Click “End Test”
• Then click “End Session”

​Once this is done, the exam submission will be complete.

​Final Tips for Students

Preparation and familiarity with the exam format can make a big difference.

​Students are encouraged to:

• Try the ABRSM online practice exam to become familiar with the question format
• Manage their time carefully during the exam
• Avoid spending too much time on a single question
• Ask their teacher whenever they are unsure about a concept

Feeling a little nervous before an exam is completely normal. With preparation and practice, students can approach the exam with confidence and focus on doing their best.

At Learn 2 Play Music Academy, we support students not only in learning music theory but also in preparing for their exams with confidence. From understanding the syllabus to navigating the online exam process, our teachers ensure that students are familiar with the digital exam format and know what to expect on exam day.

​We also help students take their exams at the right time, ensuring they feel well-prepared, confident, and motivated to succeed. If you're unsure about your child's readiness, our teachers can assess their progress and provide professional advice on the next steps.

Thinking about registering for an exam?
📱 Send us a message on WhatsApp at 8044 3928 today to schedule a trial assessment.
We’ll be happy to guide you and your child on the best path forward.