Each year hundreds of dance students nervously enter their dance examinations. Mastering the complex repertoire can feel overwhelming, but the reward is a strong sense of achievement and the opportunity to advance to the next level. As always practice makes perfect, so here are some valuable tips and tricks to help you excel in your dance exam preparation!

Rehearse at home with the syllabus music

Learning the exam syllabus can be challenging, but taking initiative is key to reducing stress. How? By becoming as familiar as possible with each exercise before your exam. This process requires time and practice. We recommend rehearsing not only in class but also at home using the syllabus music, for several important reasons. Dancers often grow accustomed to their regular studio environment, so it's beneficial to practice in different locations where the flooring, mirrors, and space might feel unfamiliar. You may notice certain phrases or rhythms in the music that help with timing and counts. Consistent practice with the music will also make the movements second nature, as they transition from your mind to your body.

Matilda wears the Alda Velvet Leotard and Darcey Half Tutu in White.

Attend mock exams and masterclasses

Most dance schools offer mock exams or masterclasses which are highly beneficial for those dancers wanting to gain more confidence on the day of the exam. Students will dress in exam uniform attire and treat a scheduled session in a studio as a practice exam alongside their peers. In this process, students are assessed by their teacher and/or can even attend masterclasses for key advice led by examiners. The more you put into your mock exam or masterclass, the more you will be able to get out of it. With the help of some comments and feedback from your teacher and examiners, students can grasp whether they may need to refine areas such as their head direction for grand battements at the barre or their preparation for a turning jeté. Don’t forget that as much as dance exams focus on technique, musicality and knowledge of the syllabus, your performance abilities also come into consideration. A mock exam is the great chance for you showcase your personality and expression.

Purchase the correct syllabus uniform

Teachers will make students aware of what uniform attire is required on exam day. Uniforms differ depending on the syllabus taught at your dance school, your age group and the style of dance being studied. While some syllabi mandate specific styles and colours of leotards and skirts to be worn, others require head pieces and/or props. Be sure to double check that you have the correct attire ahead of the mock exam. Lastly, to ensure students feel well supported, it’s important to stock up on undergarments, hosiery, shoes and accessories needed for your exam.

Mackenzie wears the Charlotte Leotard, Emily Skirt and Satin Hair Bow in Ballet Pink, Classic Dance Tight - Footed in Theatrical Pink and Harper Ballet Shoe - Full Sole in Pink.

Learn exam theory

Face corner two. Can you explain what allegro means? Please demonstrate third position using your arms. Sound a bit familiar? Theory becomes another part of the exam process and like anything, requires some revision. As theory generally differs depending on the style and level of dance studied, it’s best to check that the theory is relevant to you. We also suggest pairing up with a friend and testing each other, this way you can learn off one another and become well prepared ahead of the exam day.

We encourage all dancers to participate in dance exams throughout the course of their dance journey. It not only helps student’s form initiative, drive and commitment, but assists in shaping the dancer they become in later years by building the foundations. It’s also a time for teachers to identify their current capabilities and provide guidance resulting in student growth. We wish all students the best of luck throughout the upcoming exam period!

Article by Lara Divitcos

Photography by Elly Ford