US Examination Registration Guide
RCM Certificate Program examinations provide a national standard for students, parents and teachers to track and measure progress and achievements. Preparing for and successfully completing an examination builds self-confidence and helps students develop a sense of pride.
2026.27 In-Person Exam Dates
August 2026 Session
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | April 1, 2026 |
| Registration Deadline | May 13, 2026 |
| Theory Examinations | August 7 & 8, 2026 |
| Practical Examinations | July 31 - August 6, 2026 |
November/December 2026 Session
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | September 2, 2026 |
| Registration Deadline | October 14, 2026 |
| Theory Examinations | December 11 & 12, 2026 |
| Practical Examinations | November 28 - December 10, 2026 |
May / June 2027 Session
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | January 6, 2027 |
| Registration Deadline | February 17, 2027 |
| Theory & History Examinations | May 14 & 15, 2027 |
| Practical Examinations | May 16 - June 6, 2027 |
2026.27 Theory Examination Dates
Theory Examinations take place only on the dates stated above and according to the following schedule:
| Subject | Day | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Level 5 Theory | Friday & Saturday | Friday: 9:30 am Saturday: 2:00 pm |
| Level 6 Theory | Friday & Saturday | Friday: 9:30 am Saturday: 9:30 am |
| Level 7 Theory | Friday & Saturday | Friday: 9:30 am Saturday: 9:30 am |
| Level 8 Theory | Friday & Saturday | Friday: 9:30 am Saturday: 2:00 pm |
| Level 9 Harmony | Saturday | 9:30 am–12:30 pm |
| Level 9 History (available May session only) | Friday | 2:00 pm |
| Level 10 Harmony & Counterpoint | Saturday | 9:30 am–12:30 pm |
| Level 10 History (available May session only) | Friday | 9:30 am |
| ARCT Analysis | Saturday | 2:00–5:00 pm |
| ARCT Harmony & Counterpoint | Saturday | 9:30 am–12:30 pm |
| ARCT History (available May session only) | Friday | 2:00 pm |
| Speech Arts Technical Theory Levels 1-4 (Winter & Spring sessions only) | Friday | 9:30 am–12:30 pm |
| Speech Arts History & Literature Theory Levels 1-3 (Winter & Spring sessions only) | Friday | 2:00–5:00 pm |
| ARCT Teacher's Written | Friday | 9:30 am–12:30 pm |
| Keyboard Harmony (available May in-person Session only) | TBA | |
Alternate Theory Examination Schedule
The following exams are offered at these alternate seatings to accommodate candidates who may have a conflict with the original date and time.
| Subject | Day | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Level 9 Harmony | Friday | 9:30–12:30 pm |
| Level 10 Harmony & Counterpoint | Friday | 9:30–12:30 pm |
| ARCT Harmony & Counterpoint | Friday | 9:30–12:30 pm |
| ARCT Analysis | Friday | 9:30–12:30 pm |
US Examination Centers