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English Proficiency Exam
The working language of the Barenboim-Said Akademie is English. At the time of matriculation, an overall B2 level of English is required for Bachelor of Music, Master of Music, and Artist Diploma students. Preparatory Program students must have at least an A2 level.
All applicants must demonstrate English proficiency during the application process. Accepted tests include TOEFL Essentials, TOEFL iBT, TOEFL ITP, Academic IELTS, Cambridge Certificate, LanguageCert LTE, and Linguaskill General, taken within the last two years. For the 2026–27 academic year, we accept certificates dated from October 2024 onward.
Preparatory Program applicants who have not taken one of the accepted tests within the last two years and are invited to audition will be scheduled for an online proctored English language test sponsored by the Akademie. This test will take place before the audition date.
Eligible Bachelor of Music applicants from North Africa and the Middle East (as described under Who Should Apply in the Preparatory Program section on our Find Your Program of Study page) who have not taken one of the accepted tests within the last two years and are invited to audition may also opt for the Akademie-sponsored test.
Deadline: All candidates must provide valid proof of English proficiency by 15 April of the relevant admissions cycle.
Exemptions: Applicants who have completed an accredited undergraduate or graduate degree within the last 24 months at a university where English was the sole language of instruction are exempt. In this case, please select the appropriate option in the application form and upload transcripts and certificates. Applicants must provide documentation confirming that the entire degree was taught in English.
The Akademie follows the standards of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
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Pre-screening Materials
Creating Pre-Screening Audition Videos
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Music Theory and Ear Training
Composition Applicants: Ear Training and Music Theory Topics for Preparation
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Instrumentalists: Ear Training and Music Theory Topics for Preparation
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Sample Music Theory and Ear Training for Instrumentalists
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Sample Music Theory and Ear Training for Composition Applicants
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Composition Information
Information for candidates applying for a study program in Composition (Preparatory Program, Bachelor of Music Master of Music,and Artist Diploma)
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Humanities Interview
Humanities Interview Information Sheet
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Curriculum Vitae
Layout, structure and content tips for an attractive and reader-friendly CV
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Still have questions? Check our FAQ or contact the Admissions Team.
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