Cancellations

UK & Ireland policy for withdrawals, non-attendance and fee refunds

If a candidate is withdrawn from an exam or doesn't attend, the applicant must notify ABRSM’s office in London immediately in writing and no later than the day of the exam. Notice given only to an examiner, honorary local representative, steward or invigilator isn't sufficient to qualify for a refund.

A candidate who's withdrawn from an exam or doesn't attend may be eligible for a partial refund, but only under the circumstances outlined below.

Illness or injury

A refund of 75% is given provided that the conditions above are met and that the written notification is supported by documentary evidence, i.e. a medical certificate (an official letter from someone in authority like a a head teacher or school nurse confirming the candidate’s illness or injury may also be accepted). The documentary evidence must be sent no later than four weeks after the exam date.

Exceptional personal circumstances

A discretionary refund may be given on compassionate grounds in cases such as bereavement, family crisis or personal trauma, provided that the conditions above are met and that the written notification is supported by full details substantiating the application.

Death or serious indisposition of teacher

A discretionary refund may be given to a candidate whose exam preparation is severely curtailed by the teacher’s death or long-term serious illness. In cases of occasional missed lessons due to the teacher’s minor or short-term illness, or cases of a dispute with the teacher leading to lessons being discontinued, no refund can be made.

Application for such a refund must be made in accordance with the conditions above although it may be made by someone other than the applicant. ABRSM may request details of an independent person who may be contacted by us to verify the application.

Circumstances beyond the candidate’s control

Where a Practical exam is missed due to circumstances beyond the candidate’s control (e.g. a major travel incident or damage to the candidate’s instrument immediately before the exam), as a first recourse ABRSM endeavours to offer an alternative appointment at the earliest opportunity within the current exam session (this may be at any centre within the area).

If this isn't possible, a discretionary refund of up to 75% may be given provided that the conditions in Reg. 10a are met and that the written notification is supported by full details substantiating the application.

Where a Theory exam is missed due to circumstances beyond the candidate’s control, a discretionary refund of up to 75% may also be given provided that the conditions above are met and that the written notification is supported by full details substantiating the application.

A candidate who's withdrawn from an exam may be re-entered in the next exam session. In such cases, a new entry and full payment must be made as entry details/payment cannot be transferred from one period to the next.

A candidate in quarantine for any infection must be withdrawn. If exams are cancelled owing to quarantine, alternative appointments/fee refunds may be offered at ABRSM’s discretion.