Music Entrance Requirements
The minimum music entrance requirements are the equivalent of McGill Conservatory Collegial I Instrument or Voice (Performance applicants: Collegial II) and Secondary V Theory and Ear Training.
Approximate Equivalents to Entrance Requirements in Practical Subjects (McGill Conservatory Collegial I – Instrument/Voice)
| Subject | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Quebec CEGEPs | CEGEP II |
| Toronto Conservatory | Grade 9 |
| Western Board | Grade 9 |
| Mount Allison | Grade 9 |
| Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music | Grade 7 |
The above listing is intended only as a general guide. Admissibility to any program is determined by audition and academic record. Students wishing to major in Performance should be approximately two years more advanced and be able to demonstrate potential as performers at their audition.
Consult the School's Undergraduate Admissions site for specific information on entrance audition requirements and dates.
All applicants to an undergraduate music research or performance program at McGill must play an instrument (including voice) and audition. Applicants have the option of attending an on-campus audition or submitting a recorded video audition. One does not take priority over the other. All applicants have equal opportunities for admission.
Applicants for Composition are required to submit the following:
- Written scores for 2 or 3 of your compositions. If you have recordings available of these compositions (mp3), you can also upload with scores. See the How to Apply webpage for submission details.
- You can also provide other composition-related works such as advanced harmony exercises, arrangements, orchestrations or papers written about composition (analysis, presentations, etc.).
- Composition Statement: Prepare a brief written statement (1 page) or recorded video (max 3 minutes) that covers the following: discuss your musical background and the compositions you have submitted in your portfolio. Your composition statement should be submitted with your composition material (written or video).
Music Education applicants are asked to outline their reasons for wishing to enter the Music Education field in their Statement of Intent (a document that is uploaded in the application portal) and to have a letter of reference sent from someone attesting to their suitability for teaching. The name and email of the referee must be entered in the application. McGill will contact the referee directly with instructions on how to submit reference.
All audition recordings and composition samples should be uploaded to the portfolio section within the application portal. Please consult the Music Admissions page for instructions on how to submit this material.