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Frequently Asked Questions
You can find the answers to your questions about the application process, auditioning, financial support and studying at the Akademie below. The support section below is intended to help answer the most common questions prospective students have. Browse through the questions to see if your inquiry has been answered here! If you still have questions that are not covered below, please contact us at admissions@barenboimsaid.de.
Applications and Auditions
How Does the Application Process Work?
Application to the Barenboim-Said Akademie is through our online application portal. Following registration, applicants are prompted to provide personal responses to several questions, attach official transcripts and diplomas, submit links to video recordings of the required pre-screening repertoire and more. Following a careful review process, selected applicants are invited to interview and audition for our faculty in Berlin.
We regret that we cannot enter into discussion of any kind with applicants regarding admissions decisions, nor can we offer feedback on materials at any stage of the admissions process.
Is There An Application Fee?
There are no application fees when applying for any program at the Barenboim-Said Akademie. Applicants simply need to submit their application through our online application portal.
What is the Audition Process?
To be considered for an audition, applicants must submit a completed application which includes video recordings of the required pre-screening repertoire. Following review of the application and pre-screening materials, selected applicants are invited to interview and audition for our faculty in Berlin. Applicants who have been invited to audition have the opportunity to apply for a travel bursary and to request support in applying for any necessary travel visas.
Can I play the same Repertoire in the Pre-Screening and in the Audition?
The repertoire prepared for the pre-screening may be the same for the audition repertoire. Please note that some studios may even require an additional piece for the live audition. See the Audition & Pre-Screening Repertoire page for further details.
Is it Possible to Apply to More Than One Program or Field of Study?
In short, yes you can apply to two studios. Please note that if you wish to be considered for two studios, then you need to submit two separate applications. However, students can only be admitted to one program / studio as it is not possible to double-major at the Akademie.
Can I Double-Major At the Akademie?
In short, no. We ask applicants to apply to a single program one concentration (instrument or composition) at a time. Non-piano students receive piano as a secondary instrument, and piano students, repetition.
May I Apply TO Enter the Akademie Mid-Year?
The Akademie does not offer mid-year or Summer Semester matriculation. Matriculation is only possible in the Winter Semester, with orientation activities and classes beginning in October. Please check the Academic Calendar for information on the semester schedule.
Which English Language Proficiency Tests are Accepted?
PREPRATORY PROGRAM
Though not a requirement for application, we welcome scores from TOEFL Essentials, TOEFL iBT, TOEFL ITP, Academic IELTS, Cambridge Certificate, LanguageCert LTE or Linguaskill General test taken within the last two years. If you have not taken a TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge Certificate, LanguageCert LTE or Linguaskill test within the last two years and are not able to take either test prior to the application deadline, and are invited to audition at the Akademie, you will be asked to take an online proctored English language proficiency test, sponsored by the Akademie.
If you have completed your undergraduate degree from a university where English is the language of instruction within the last 24 months, you will not have to submit a language certificate. In this case, please select the appropriate option in the application form and upload your transcripts and certificates in the pertinent section. Please note, proof must be provided that the entire post-secondary degree was taught in English.
BACHELOR OF MUSIC, MASTER OF MUSIC & ARTIST DIPLOMA
We welcome scores from TOEFL Essentials, TOEFL iBT, TOEFL ITP, Academic IELTS, Cambridge Certificate, LanguageCert LTE or Linguaskill General test taken within the last two years. If you have not taken a TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge Certificate, LanguageCert LTE or Linguaskill test within the last two years and are not able to take either test prior to the application deadline, you may upload proof of enrollment in an upcoming English language placement exam. Scores must be submitted directly to the Office of Admissions (admissions@barenboimsaid.de) by April 15th of the pertinent admissions cycle.
Eligible Bachelor of Music candidates may opt for the Akademie sponsored English language test. Please refer to our English Proficiency Exam section within our Resources page for further information.
If you have completed an undergraduate or graduate degree from a university where English is the language of instruction within the last 24 months, you will not have to submit a language certificate. In this case, please select the appropriate option in the application form and upload your transcripts and certificates in the pertinent section. Please note, proof must be provided that the entire post-secondary degree was taught in English.
I Don't Speak German. Can I Still Apply?
Yes. Although Berlin is an international city and the language of instruction at the Akademie is English, a basic knowledge of German will help new students get around with confidence and better enjoy its many cultural offerings. With this in mind, the Akademie provides German courses to students.
What Level of English do I need to Apply to the Akademie?
The working language of the Barenboim-Said Akademie is English, and once enrolled, students will be expected to communicate, write, rehearse, and participate in classes in English. If a student is offered a place at the Akademie, and Admissions considers that student’s English skills in need of improvement, that student will be enrolled in a mandatory intensive English course either prior to or upon arrival at the Akademie. The expectation is that all students achieve a B2 level of English at the time of matriculation, with the goal of achieving a C1 level within the first year of their studies. Preparatory program students need to have an A2 level, while Bachelor of Music, Master of Music and Artist Diploma students need an overall B2 level.
The Barenboim-Said Akademie acknowledges and identifies language levels as defined by Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL).
Which studios are accepting applications for the 2024-25 Academic Year?
Visit our Process page to find which studios are accepting applications for the next academic year.
I Don't have the Resources to make a Pre-Screening audition Video. Can I simply audition live for faculty in berlin?
The pre-screening audition video is an important component of the application to the Barenboim-Said Akademie. If you have access to a phone with a camera and an internet connection, it should be possible to create an audition video. To make the process easier, please visit the apply page; there you can find a helpful document which clearly outlines the steps you need to take to create an audition video, as well as some helpful tips for getting the most out of your recording.
Please keep in mind that we do not expect applicants to provide us with professional-level recordings. Rather, the most effective video recording is one in which we are able to see and hear an accurate representation of your best work.
I Can't Find the Contact Information of a Facutly Member.
Unfortunately, we do not disclose the contact information of faculty members. You will be able to meet teachers personally if you are invited to audition in Berlin. Still, we are glad to forward any questions or inquiries you may have with our faculty members, but we can’t guarantee a response.
Can I Request A Trial Lesson with a Faculty Member?
While the Admissions office is happy to facilitate such lessons whenever possible, we are not able to do so until we have received your application. Please note that due to individual policies for trial lessons and busy schedules, we cannot guarantee an appointment with any faculty member. Once you have submitted an application to the Akademie, we are happy to forward your request for a sample lesson with the corresponding Faculty.
Can I Apply as a Transfer Student to the Akademie?
Yes. Admission to a higher semester is possible for applicants who have already started their undergraduate studies in the same field at another higher education institution. Transfer applicants must submit the Application for Admission to Higher Semester form along with the rest of their application materials via SlideRoom. To receive this form, please reach out to the Admissions Office at admissions@barenboimsaid.de. Transfer applications will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis after successful submission of academic transcripts from their previous undergraduate studies.
IS THERE A STIPEND DURATION FOR TRANSFER APPLICANTS FOR THE BACHELOR OF MUSIC PROGRAM?
The stipend duration will be aligned with the expected length of instrumental instruction, not the length that it would take to finish the entire undergraduate program. Transfer applicants will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis after successful submission of academic transcripts from their previous undergraduate studies.
Can I Apply for Credit Recognition at the Akademie?
Yes. The deadline to submit the Credit Recognition Application form is four weeks before the start of the subsequent semester (October 1 for the Winter Semester and March 1 for the Summer Semester). In case the deadline is missed, credit recognition for the subsequent semester is no longer possible. Please reach out to our Admissions Office at admissions@barenboimsaid.de for more information.
How many ECTS do I need to start the Master of Music at the BSA?
Candidates holding a three-year or a four-year Bachelor of Music degree are eligible for admission. However, the Master of Music is only awarded with 360 ECTS accumulated between bachelor’s and master’s study, with at least 120 ECTS earned during master’s study.
If you obtained less than 240 ECTS in your previous studies, your period of study may be extended up to an additional year until you have accumulated the remaining ECTS required for MMus. degree conferral.
I don’t feel ready to have an advanced Humanities course at the BSA, is there a possibility of taking a lower course level?
On a case-by-case basis, Master of Music students may enroll on Bachelor of Music humanities courses and will receive further assignments.
I am currently pursuing my final Bachelor of Music degree and do not yet have my degree; can I still apply?
If you do not yet have your bachelor’s degree certificate at the time of application, please attach your enrollment certificate, Transcript of Records and provisional degree certificate from your current university stating your prospective graduation date. Please note that all documents not issued in English or German will have to be submitted in original language along with a professional translation.
Life at the Akademie
Are there Health or Counseling Services available To Students?
Yes, all Preparatory Program and Bachelor of Music students at the Barenboim-Said Akademie are automatically enrolled in comprehensive German health insurance plans. Students are also provided with a list of doctors, counselors, and other health professionals approved by the Akademie, and during Orientation receive guidance on visiting the doctor, applying for health insurance and more. Students who are already covered by adequate German-mandated health insurance plans may opt out of Akademie-sponsored insurance.
It is mandatory for all enrolled students to provide proof of health insurance during their studies at the Akademie. Although we do not cover the health insurance costs for Master of Music and Artist Diploma students, we will be happy to guide students on their possibilities to apply for statutory health insurance or private health insurance based on the applicable legal framework.
As part of an overall commitment to student-musician health and wellness, the Akademie offers access to Alexander Technique courses, a free confidential counselling service, as well as other mind-body techniques or therapies.
What are the General Housing Arrangements for Students?
The Barenboim-Said Akademie has student housing facilities in the Mitte district of Berlin, located in relatively close proximity to the Akademie. The properties are furnished, shared accommodations. Shared spaces are occupied by two students who share a common living space, kitchen, and bathroom. Students may elect to share an apartment with other current or incoming Akademie students whom they know or they will be paired randomly.
Do I receive Housing in Berlin?
All Preparatory Program and Bachelor of Music students enrolled at the Akademie are eligible for shared student housing, at no additional cost. Bachelor of Music students are eligible for student housing only for their first two academic years of their undergraduate studies. The length of housing for transfer students is adjusted according to their placement in the bachelor program. For example, transfer applicants for the Bachelor of Music program will be eligible for student housing for only one academic year if they are projected to start in the second academic year of their undergraduate studies.
Master of Music and Artist Diploma students are expected to find their own housing in Berlin.
DO I RECEIVE A STIPEND OR SCHOLARSHIP?
Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Music and Preparatory Program at the Akademie receive a means-independent, non-repayable monthly stipend currently amounting to 861€/month. There is no need to apply for the stipend separately. However, students enrolled in the Master of Music or Artist Diploma program are not eligible for the stipend.
Bachelor of Music and Preparatory Program students who do not live at student housing will receive an additional 200€/month.
Is Orientation Attendance Mandatory?
Yes, if admitted to the Akademie, students are expected to be present for the entire orientation period. Attendance for orientation is mandatory for all incoming students. Please check the Academic Calendar to see when the next orientation period is planned.
Students may be exceptionally exempt from attending (part of) the orientation program with prior approval for absence from the Dean. To apply for approval of leave, please get in touch with the Office of Admissions at least 2 weeks before the start of orientation.
We recommend that students enrolled in the Master of Music and Artist Diploma program arrive at least during the orientation period to make sure they can fulfill the enrollment requirements (signing up for health insurance, city registration) prior to the start of the pertinent Winter Semester.
What Happens During Orientation?
Orientation is an opportunity for new students to meet each other, as well as staff and faculty members. This is the time for all incoming students to take necessary placement exams, participate in intensive preparatory writing courses, and take introductory classes. Social activities, such as impromptu sight-reading sessions, city tours, and group attendance of performances in Berlin are also organized during orientation, so students will have time to familiarize themselves with their new classmates, city, and surroundings before the start of rehearsals and classes.
Please note that Master of Music & Artist Diploma students are not required to take placement exams or intensive preparatory writing courses. However, Master of Music & Artist Diploma students will have introductory and info sessions specifically tailored according to their program in order to prepare them for the start of the Winter Semester
Visas
Do I need a Visa to visit the Barenboim-Said Akademie?
Applicants who are citizens of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea or the United States of America, or member countries of the European Union do not require a visa to enter and visit Germany for non-employment purposes for short periods.
Applicants from countries other than those listed above must obtain a short-term Schengen visa to enter Germany for the purposes of visiting or auditioning at the Barenboim-Said Akademie. Applicants invited to audition for the Akademie who are in need of such a visa will be allowed enough time for applying to and receiving the necessary documentation.
While the Barenboim-Said Akademie is able to provide support to applicants during the visa process, we strongly encourage applicants both to be aware of the regulations and proactive in obtaining the necessary paperwork. You may find information about specific visa guidelines as well as information on how to make an appointment for a visa on your country’s Germany Embassy website.
What Documents do I Need to apply for a Visa?
In general, the following documents must be submitted along with a visa application form:
Notification of admission to study at the Barenboim-Said Akademie
Proof of financial support (the Barenboim-Said Akademie provides Preparatory Program and Bachelor of Music students with a document confirming their stipend)
A copy of a higher education entrance qualification
Certificate of health, if necessary (for further information, please inquire at your local German Embassy)
Depending on your country of origin, certain additional documents (such as a birth certificate) may be necessary to include
A biometric photo
Master of Music and Artist Diploma students will need to provide a proof of finances or financial support for the duration of their studies.
Do I need a German Residency Permit In Order To Attend the Akademie?
For students who are citizens of member countries in the European Union, a residency permit is not required to live and study in Germany. International students require a residency permit in order to live and study in Germany.
Most international students must apply for this visa in their home country or country of residence at the German Embassy or Consulate before entering Germany.
Students who are citizens of Australia, Canada, Israel, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea or the United States of America may apply for their residency permit after entering Germany. Please be aware that while it is possible for citizens of these countries to enter Germany without a visa or specific residency permit, staying in Germany past a specified limit (usually ninety days) without securing a residency permit will result in being required to leave Germany for a specified period and can jeopardize matriculation at the Akademie. Please check with the German Embassy in your home country for more information, including specified time limits on short term travel visas.
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