The Level 4 and Level 6 Associate Awards are for individual candidates of any age looking to undertake a qualification that focusses solely on performance beyond Grade 8 in music or performing arts. These qualifications empower candidates to push their boundaries and unleash their potential as performers, whilst offering a practical alternative to the RSL Professional Diplomas.

The content of the performance is dictated by the complexity of the repertoire chosen for an individual discipline/instrument as described in the syllabus specifications. You may choose one of the following disciplines/instruments which is offered by RSL.

Music

Any discipline that RSL currently offers at Grade 8:

• Electric Guitar
• Acoustic Guitar
• Classical Guitar
• Bass Guitar
• Ukulele
• Drums
• Piano
• Classical Piano
• Keyboard
• Vocals
• Classical Violin

Dance

• Street Dance
• Jazz Dance

Performing Arts

• Musical Theatre (Acting and/or Singing and/or Dancing)
• Acting Disciplines

You will be expected to perform a programme of own choice pieces with a duration of:

• 35 minutes at Level 4
• 40 minutes at Level 6

There are no entry requirements for these qualifications. However, candidates should be aware that there will be an expectation of technical proficiency covered in previous qualifications.

RSL’s Level 4 and 6 Associate Awards provide a flexible progression route for candidates. They are a positive means of determining progress and enable candidates to learn the necessary techniques to gain entry to industry or further/higher education.

RSL qualifications are taken in over 50 countries worldwide. The Associate Award (Performance) qualifications have been designed to equip students for careers in the creative industries, however, they are also regulated qualifications that are benchmarked at RQF Levels 4 and 6 in the UK, regulated by Ofqual and with worldwide recognition.

All evidence is submitted online for external assessment by RSL by individual candidates. Each learner will have their own personal log-in and password through which their submission will be made and through which a grade will be awarded.

RSL does not offer a course of study leading to the award of this qualification or any formative guidance throughout; it assesses submissions from learners who have studied and prepared externally.

Associate Awards Fees

Please note that the following fees are for UK Associate Awards in 2023. If you’re based outside the UK, please find the correct fees in your territory by visiting your country page…

• Level 4: £170
• Level 6: £230