Apply to Sibelius Academy’s Junior Academy
Admissions guide 2025 to Sibelius Academy's Junior Academy.
Application period: between 8 January at 8 am and 22 January 2025 at 3 pm EET (Finnish time)
Application form: the link to the application form will be updated here later
Admissions results: 28 May 2025 at 9 am EET (Finnish time)
The preliminary schedule of the Junior Academy entrance examinations will be updated here no later than on 31 January 2025.
The Junior Academy at the University of the Arts Helsinki’s Sibelius Academy is a national, goal-oriented programme, which prepares musically talented and motivated young people for higher education in music. It functions as a part of the Sibelius Academy — in which teaching, artistic activity, and research provide an interactive university-level learning environment.
The pedagogical approach of the Junior Academy is to consider the student’s overall development as a musician and as a balanced young school student. Interaction, feedback and discussions between the student and teachers on the one hand and between the student’s guardians and teachers on the other support the student’s learning process.
As a Junior Academy student, you have a main subject or a main instrument. Your studies will also include at least one public performance, which will be assessed, each academic year (for example as part of a Junior Academy matinee). In addition to your main subject or instrument, you study ensemble playing and participate in general music skills studies (structural awareness of music studies). General music skills studies are arranged in the Junior Academy’s own groups or in collaboration with your local music institute, considering the practical circumstances, such as where you live. You are also able to apply for tuition in the other fields represented in the Sibelius Academy, for example in the form of secondary instrument or subject tuition.
Every year, approximately 20-30 new students are selected for the Junior Academy. Students are granted admission to the Junior Academy based on their performance during the entrance examination. The number of selected students is influenced annually by the number of students completing their studies at the Junior Academy, i.e. the number of available student places.
The decision on students admitted to Junior Academy is made by the Dean.
Main subjects and main instruments in the Junior Academy
- Global Music
- Jazz Music
- Folk Music
- Classical Music Performance, voice
- Classical Music Performance, instrument: early music period instruments (wind instrument [Baroque oboe, recorder, traverso], string instrument [Baroque cello, Baroque violin, Viola da Gamba], harpsichord or lute), piano, accordion, guitar, kantele, woodwind and brass instruments (flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, French horn, trumpet, trombone, baritone horn, tuba), string instruments (violin, viola, cello, double bass), percussion, harp, and organ
- Music Theory
- Composition
Study plan
Your studies will progress according to the Junior Academy curriculum and your individual study plan (NOPS). The study plan includes tuition in your main subject or main instrument, general music skills studies, possible studies in other subjects, period-based tuition, and the required public performances that will be assessed. Alongside the goals regarding your music studies, your goals related to comprehensive or secondary education will also be taken into consideration when planning your studies.
Every spring, you will have a discussion with a Sibelius Academy department/programme head and/or a Junior Academy coordinator/teacher. During the spring discussion your progress in accordance with your study plan as well as the continuation of your Junior Academy studies will be assessed.
Eligibility for education
Jazz, Folk Music, Music Theory, Composition, Classical Music Performance: piano, accordion, kantele, guitar, string instruments (violin, viola, cello, double bass), and organ:
You are eligible for the Junior Academy if you
- will turn at most 18 during the same calendar year you start your studies at the Junior Academy and
- are enrolled in comprehensive education (including preparatory education “TUVA”) which will make you eligible for secondary education or you are enrolled in secondary education that provides eligibility for higher education. Sibelius Academy and other Finnish higher education institutions require their applicants to be eligible for higher education.
Classical Music Performance, voice:
You are eligible for the Junior Academy if you
- will turn at least 15 and most 18 during the same calendar year you start your studies at the Junior Academy and
- are enrolled in comprehensive education (including preparatory education “TUVA”) which will make you eligible for secondary education or you are enrolled in secondary education that provides eligibility for higher education. Sibelius Academy and other Finnish higher education institutions require their applicants to be eligible for higher education.
Classical Music Performance, woodwind and brass instruments, percussion, harp, and Early Music period instruments:
You are eligible for the Junior Academy if you
- will turn at least 13 and most 18 during the same calendar year you start your studies at the Junior Academy and
- are enrolled in comprehensive education (including preparatory education “TUVA”) which will make you eligible for secondary education or you are enrolled in secondary education that provides eligibility for higher education. Sibelius Academy and other Finnish higher education institutions require their applicants to be eligible for higher education.
Global Music:
You are eligible for the Junior Academy if you
- will turn at least 12 and most 18 during the same calendar year you start your studies at the Junior Academy and
- are enrolled in comprehensive education (including preparatory education “TUVA”) which will make you eligible for secondary education or you are enrolled in secondary education that provides eligibility for higher education. Sibelius Academy and other Finnish higher education institutions require their applicants to be eligible for higher education.
If you do not meet the age requirement for your main instrument/subject when you apply, you will not be invited to the entrance examinations. The Sibelius Academy checks the eligibility of each applicant after the end of the application period. You will be notified of your eligibility by email no later than 7 March 2025.
Right to study
The right to study at the Junior Academy is granted for a period of one academic year at a time. The continuation of the right to study is affected by the student’s success in their studies, which is continuously assessed during the studies. The continuation of the right to study does not have to be applied for through an admissions procedure.
The right to study ends at the end of the academic year when the student finishes their comprehensive education or secondary education. However, the right to study will expire at the latest at the end of the spring term of the calendar year during which the student turns 20.
A student’s right to study may also end if they neglect their studies: The student does not follow information provided on the Junior Academy and fails to take care of the student’s tasks (for example compiling NOPS, taking part in a spring discussion), is absent from their lessons without notification or discontinues their studies included in their NOPS without a valid reason.
The right to study will automatically end if a Junior Academy student is offered and accepts a study place in any of the Sibelius Academy degree programmes.
The decision to terminate the right to study is made by the Dean.
How to apply
The application period starts on 8 January 2025 at 8 am EET (Finnish time) and ends on 22 January 2025 at 3pm EET (Finnish time). Fill in the online application form (Studyinfo portal) here:
The link to the application form will be updated here.
If you are applying for more than one main subject or instrument, you must fill in the form for each subject/instrument separately. If you are admitted to more than one main subject or instrument, you will be automatically placed in the main subject or instrument you have selected as the highest in your order of priority.
The possible advance assignments (Composition and Music Theory) must be submitted to the Sibelius Academy via Studyinfo portal no later than 29 January 2025 at 3pm EET (Finnish time). If you fail to deliver the required advance assignments, you will not be invited to take part in the entrance examination. NOTE! Advance assignments cannot be submitted by e-mail.
The Sibelius Academy Admissions Office will answer your questions. The e-mail address is siba.admissions@uniarts.fi.
Study certificates or other certificates are not submitted during the application period.
Entrance examinations
The entrance examinations of the Sibelius Academy will be arranged as described in the admissions criteria for each main subject or main instrument. The examinations vary in content and implementation. They may include video and sound recordings, sub-tests to be completed via remote connection and sub-tests arranged at the premises of Sibelius Academy in Helsinki. If the main subject or main instrument you apply for arranges the entrance examinations or individual sub-tests at the premises of Sibelius Academy in Helsinki, you must prepare to be present in person at the entrance examination on the dates and at the times given. You are responsible for all travel and possible accommodation expenses and arrangements while attending the entrance examination.
The preliminary schedule of the entrance examinations will be published on the Uniarts Helsinki website no later than 31 January 2025 You will receive an invitation to entrance examinations or a notification of not being invited by e-mail no later than 2 to 3 weeks before the examination date. The exact instructions and schedules of your entrance examination will be detailed in your invitation.
You will be assigned an individual entrance examination time, which cannot be changed except for compelling reasons not due to the applicant, and if the timetable of the Entrance Examination Board allows. Acceptable grounds for changing your examination time are an accident or sudden illness (a medical certificate is required). If you do not attend your entrance examination, you will not be offered a place at the Sibelius Academy. Please notify the Sibelius Academy Admissions Office as soon as possible if you are unable to attend the entrance examination.
You must prove your identity in the entrance examinations with a passport, other official proof of identity or driving license.
The entrance examination is a non-public event to which you must not bring any outside persons. For some main subjects or main instruments, it is permissible to bring your own accompanist or assisting musician to the entrance examination. This, however, will always be specifically stated in the admissions criteria for the main subject or main instrument in question. Auditions at the entrance examination cannot be recorded (L 621/1999).
Announcement of results
Admissions results will be published on 28 May 2025 at 9am EET (Finnish time).
The Dean’s decision will be available at 9am onwards on Uniarts Helsinki website including the names of the applicants who have given permission to publish their names online.
The Sibelius Academy will send e-mail to those admitted as students. You can also check the results on Uniarts Helsinki website or inquire about the results by e-mail at siba.admissions@uniarts.fi. Some main instruments or main subjects may choose not to admit new students.
If you believe that the Sibelius Academy has acted contrary to its admission criteria, you can request for rectification to the student admission decision from the Sibelius Academy in writing within 14 days of the publication of the admission results. The rectification procedure is not intended as a means for receiving feedback, asking for further information about the admission or requesting unjustified re-evaluation.
More information on the rectification procedure can be found here.
A list of people giving feedback as well as the schedule for requesting feedback will be published on the Uniarts Helsinki website when the results are published. Feedback is intended to guide you to further improve your performance and help you identify areas for improvement.
Accepting the offered study place and starting your studies
New students will receive registration instructions with the acceptance letter.
In August, students admitted to the Junior Academy must submit a certificate of studying in comprehensive or secondary education in 2025–2026. If a selected student fails to provide the study certificate by the given deadline, they will lose their study place at the Junior Academy. Sibelius Academy will inform the selected new students of the exact timetable for the submission of the certificate in their letter of acceptance.
A Junior Academy student cannot register as an absent student. Instead, they must accept the study place and begin their studies in the autumn term following their admission.
The studies will begin with an orientation week for the new Junior Academy students at the turn of August-September. The annual service fee for Junior Academy students is EUR 340 (EUR 170 per term).
The new students will be allocated to teachers and possible accompanists by the respective department/programme heads. Students’ preferences will be accommodated if possible.
Admissions requirements for each main subject and main instrument
GLOBAL MUSIC
The entrance auditions will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
The entrance auditions consist of three different parts. You may apply with any instrument, including voice.
- Interactive group workshop
This part of the audition consists of an interactive workshop in a group, made up of other Global Music applicants. The workshop will involve work away from instruments, including warmup exercises, body percussion, voice work, improvisation, ear-training, and small group tasks. In addition, the workshop may involve group work using instruments as required.
- Own performance
A performance of 10 – 15 minutes may be performed on more than one instrument/voice.
Perform pieces of your own choice, which demonstrate your own musical tradition, musical background, or own form of musical expression. This may include traditional and/or contemporary pieces. Your own compositions may also be included as part of this programme.
The performance may be solo or with accompanying musicians. You must provide your own accompanying musicians if required.
Please bring your own instruments to the entrance examination, unless otherwise agreed.
- Discussion
A short discussion will be held with you and the Entrance Examination Board. During the discussion, you will be asked about your motivation for wanting to study global music and any longer-term goals. The Board may also ask other questions related to your music studies as needed.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s entrance examination performance, the Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicant’s present skills and motivation for studying within the aims of the Junior Academy curriculum. The Board will also follow your ability to adapt to the different tasks, as well as your ability to work collaboratively within a group.
During the performance, the Board will assess the applicant’s instrumental and/or vocal performance skills. During the interactive workshop, the Board will assess the applicant’s listening and communication skills as well as their interaction with musicians from diverse backgrounds. During the discussion, the Board will assess the applicant’s ability to articulate clear reasons for wanting to study Global Music.
The parts of the entrance examination are weighted as follows:
- Own performance 50 %
- Interactive workshop 40 %
- Discussion 10 %
The Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicants on a scale of 0 to 25 points.
The Examination Board also takes into consideration the formation of a diverse student ensemble.
JAZZ
The entrance examination will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
The entrance examination includes:
- Two prepared well-known jazz compositions of your own choice performed from memory
- Additional assignments (for example scales, chords, blues in F or Bb) at the Entrance Examination Board’s discretion
- A brief interview
The two prepared jazz compositions must be of different types (for example in tempo, style and key), and you must include an improvised solo in accordance with the chords and form of the composition. For singers, an interpretation of the melody is sufficient. Scat singing is optional.
Each applicant will be allowed 15 minutes of examination time.
The Sibelius Academy will provide accompaniment (a pianist, a bassist, and a drummer) for the entrance examination. You must perform with the accompanying ensemble. You must bring the sheet music (3 copies) with you to the examination. Alternatively, you may submit the sheet music beforehand no later than 25 April 2025 via e-mail to siba.suunnittelija.jazz@uniarts.fi. The sheet music must be submitted in PDF format, and each composition as a single file (not one page at a time). The maximum file size is 20 MB.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s performances, the Board will assess the applicant’s command of their instrument, their command of jazz rhythmics, melody and harmony, and especially the applicant’s ensemble playing skills. In addition, a short interview section examines the applicant’s motivation to study at the Junior Academy.
The Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicants on a scale of 0 to 25 points.
FOLK MUSIC
The entrance examination will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
The entrance examination includes:
- A 10–15-minute folk music repertoire of your own choice performed from memory
- An additional task to assess music perception skills, the ability to distinguish sounds, and tonal memory
- A brief interview
The repertoire may consist of traditional music, new music, and/or your own folk compositions, and improvisation. However, if the repertoire consists mainly of music other than traditional Finnish music, the performance must include a sample of Finnish folk music.
In addition to your main instrument, you may include a demonstration on a secondary instrument.
All pieces are to be performed without accompaniment. However, double bass and electric bass as well as percussion players may use an assisting musician during part of their repertoire. Applicants who play other instruments may also use an assisting musician if the applicant also wishes to demonstrate their accompaniment skills/comping skills during the entrance examination. Even so, part of the entrance examination repertoire must be performed without an assisting musician. If you wish to use an assisting musician during part of your entrance examination, you must bring them with you.
Assessement criteria
The assessment will focus on the following areas:
- skills and technical command of the instrument(s) or voice (including improvisation skills)
- knowledge of folk music (performance methods, improvisation)
- skills and expression typical of folk music (ability to play based on hearing, typical phrasing and rhythm)
- skills in structural awareness of music: musical perception skills, the ability to distinguish pitch and timbre, tonal memory and music theory skills
- motivation
The Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicants on a scale of 0 to 25 points. The main focus of the assessment is on the performed repertoire.
CLASSICAL MUSIC PERFORMANCE, VOICE
The entrance examination will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
In the entrance examination, perform the following repertoire:
- An aria from an oratorio or opera
The composition must be performed from memory and with accompaniment. You must use the pianist provided by Sibelius Academy. You must perform the piece in the original key. - A song of your choice (Lied)
The composition must be performed from memory and with accompaniment. You must use the pianist provided by Sibelius Academy. - A demonstration on a secondary instrument. The composition must be performed without accompaniment.
- A brief interview. The board will interview you.
Submittal of sheet music:
Submit a list of your audition repertoire and related sheet music no later than 26 March 2025 via e-mail to siba.lamuvalinnat@uniarts.fi. The sheet music must be in the intended key and in PDF format (each composition as a single file, not one page at a time). The maximum file size is 20 MB. Your name and the main subject/instrument you are applying for, as well as all possible cuts, cadenzas, or other deviations from the original notation must be clearly marked on the sheets. All sheet music must also include the name of the composer and the composition. You must bring the sheet music to the entrance examination either as originals or as taped copies.
NOTE! The contents or sequence of the programme cannot be changed after the submittal deadline.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s performance, the Board will assess their voice material, vocal technique, artistic potential, learning capabilities and motivation. The applicant is expected to give at minimum a PT 2/2 level performance or to showcase equivalent skills.
The Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicants on a scale of 0 to 25 points.
CLASSICAL MUSIC PERFORMANCE, INSTRUMENT
ACCORDION
The entrance examination will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
In your entrance examination, perform three different types of works of your choice. In addition, the Board interviews you and may ask you to provide a prima vista demonstration on your instrument.
All compositions must be performed from memory.
Each applicant will be allowed a maximum of 15 minutes. At its discretion, the Board may listen to only a part of the prepared repertoire.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s entrance examination performance, the Board will assess the applicant’s technical capabilities, learning capabilities, motivation, and their ability to develop artistically and technically during their studies.
The Board will assess the applicants’ entrance examination performances on a scale of 0 to 25.
BRASS INSTRUMENTS
The entrance examination will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
In your entrance examination, perform two different types of works of your choice, one of which must be a composition with piano accompaniment. The total duration of the freely selected compositions is approximately 10 minutes. In addition, the Board interviews you and may ask you to provide a prima vista demonstration on your instrument.
In addition, those applying for the French horn must perform the B flat major scale over three octaves. The sheet music is sent to the applicants 10 days before the entrance examination.
The compositions need not be performed from memory. Compositions including accompaniment must be performed with accompaniment. The accompanying instrument is a piano. The performed composition(s) may also be a movement or movements of a concerto or sonata.
You may use your own accompanist, or one provided by the university. Notify us of your choice and submit the sheet music via an electronic Webropol form that we will send you by email after the end of the application period. Changes to the accompanist selection cannot be made after the deadline for the submission of the sheet music. The Sibelius Academy does not offer the opportunity to practice with the accompanist before the entrance examination.
If you are using the accompanist provided by the university, submit the sheet music of the works you have selected to the Sibelius Academy no later than on 26 March 2025 via the electronic Webropol form. Submit the sheet music in PDF form and each composition as a single file (not one page per file). The maximum file size is 20 MB. The names of the composer and the composition as well as your name and the main instrument/subject you are applying for must be stated at the beginning of the sheet music of each composition. You must bring the same sheet music to the entrance examination as either originals or taped copies.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s performances, the Board will assess the applicant’s technical capabilities, performance skills, learning capabilities, motivation, and their ability to develop artistically and technically during their studies. The applicant is expected to give at minimum a PT3 level performance or to showcase equivalent skills.
The Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicants on a scale of 0 to 25.
CELLO
The entrance examination will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
In your entrance examination, perform two different types of works of your choice with a total duration of approximately 10 minutes. In addition, the Board interviews you.
All compositions must be performed from memory. Compositions including accompaniment must be performed with accompaniment. The accompanying instrument is a piano.
You may use your own accompanist or one provided by the university. Notify us of your choice and submit the sheet music via an electronic Webropol form that we will send you by email after the end of the application period. Changes to the accompanist selection cannot be made after the deadline for the submission of the sheet music. The Sibelius Academy does not offer the opportunity to practice with the accompanist before the entrance examination.
If you are using the accompanist provided by the university, submit the sheet music of the works you have selected to the Sibelius Academy no later than on 26 March 2025 via the electronic Webropol form. Submit the sheet music in PDF form and each composition as a single file (not one page per file). The maximum file size is 20 MB. The names of the composer and the composition as well as your name and the main instrument/subject you are applying for must be stated at the beginning of the sheet music of each composition. You must bring the same sheet music to the entrance examination as either originals or taped copies.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s performances, the Board will assess the applicant’s technical capabilities, learning capabilities, motivation, and their ability to develop artistically and technically during their studies.
The Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicants on a scale of 0 to 25.
DOUBLE BASS
The entrance examination will be arranged by requiring a video recording. You are responsible for producing the video required.
Submit your video recording to the Sibelius Academy via the Studyinfo portal no later than 23 April 2025 at 3pm EET (Finnish time).
On your video recording, perform two different types of works of your choice. In addition, describe your study background, motivation and goals as a musician on the video.
All compositions must be performed from memory. All compositions are to be performed without accompaniment.
The video can be recorded in several takes and more than one space. Individual compositions must be recorded in one, single take (as in a live performance), and the recordings of individual compositions must not be edited.
Play facing the camera so that your face and hands are visible at all times. The video must not be shot from too far away. You must be visible in the frame from head to knees.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s performances, the Board will assess the applicant’s technical capabilities, learning capabilities, motivation, and their ability to develop artistically and technically during their studies.
The Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicants on a scale of 0 to 25.
EARLY MUSIC PERIOD INSTRUMENTS
The entrance examination will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
In your entrance examination, perform two different types of works of your choice. In addition, the Board interviews you and asks you to provide a prima vista demonstration on your instrument.
The repertoire must be performed on a period instrument. The compositions need not to be performed from memory. At its discretion, the Board may listen to only a part of the prepared repertoire.
Compositions including accompaniment must be performed with accompaniment. You may use your own accompanist or one provided by the university. The accompanying instrument is a harpsichord or portative organ.
Notify us of your choice and submit the sheet music via an electronic Webropol form that we will send you by email after the end of the application period. Changes to the accompanist selection cannot be made after the deadline for the submission of the sheet music. The Sibelius Academy does not offer the opportunity to practice with the accompanist before the entrance examination.
If you are using the accompanist provided by the university, submit the sheet music of the works you have selected to the Sibelius Academy no later than on 26 March 2025 via the electronic Webropol form. Submit the sheet music in PDF form and each composition as a single file (not one page per file). The maximum file size is 20 MB. The names of the composer and the composition as well as your name and the main instrument/subject you are applying for must be stated at the beginning of the sheet music of each composition. You must bring the same sheet music to the entrance examination as either originals or taped copies.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s performances, the Board will assess the applicant’s technical capabilities, learning capabilities, motivation, and their ability to develop artistically and technically during their studies.
The Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicants on a scale of 0 to 25.
GUITAR
The entrance examination will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
In your entrance examination, perform two different types of works of your choice. In addition, the Board interviews you and may ask you to provide a prima vista demonstration on your instrument.
All compositions must be performed from memory. All compositions are to be performed without accompaniment.
At its discretion, the Board may listen to only a part of the prepared repertoire.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s performances, the Board will assess the applicant’s technical capabilities, learning capabilities, motivation, and their ability to develop artistically and technically during their studies.
The Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicants on a scale of 0 to 25.
HARP
The entrance examination will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
In your entrance examination, perform two different types of solo pieces of your choice with a total duration of 5 to 15 minutes. In addition, present yourself briefly: describe yourself as a musician in a few words and explain why you are applying to the Sibelius Academy’s Junior Academy.
It is recommended to perform the compositions from memory. All compositions are to be performed without accompaniment. The performed composition(s) may also be a movement or movements of a concerto or sonata.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s performances, the Board will assess the applicant’s technical capabilities, learning capabilities, motivation, and their ability to develop artistically and technically during their studies. The applicant is expected to give at minimum a PT3 level performance or to showcase equivalent skills.
The Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicants on a scale of 0 to 25.
KANTELE
The entrance examination will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
In your entrance examination, perform two different types of works of your choice. In addition, the Board interviews you and may ask you to provide a prima vista demonstration on your instrument.
All compositions must be performed from memory. All compositions are to be performed without accompaniment.
At its discretion, the Board may listen to only a part of the prepared repertoire.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s performances, the Board will assess the applicant’s learning capabilities, technical capabilities, motivation, and their ability to develop artistically and technically during their studies.
The Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicants on a scale of 0 to 25.
ORGAN
The entrance examination will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
In your entrance examination, perform two different types of works of your choice. In addition, the Board interviews you
The compositions need not be performed from memory. All compositions are to be performed without accompaniment.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s performances, the Board will assess the applicant’s technical capabilities, learning capabilities, motivation, and their ability to develop artistically and technically during their studies.
The Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicants on a scale of 0 to 25.
PERCUSSION
The entrance examination will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
Prepare a freely selected demonstration of your skills on the following instruments (duration approx. 5 min / instrument):
- Snare drum
- Timpani
- Melodic percussion instrument (xylophone, vibraphone, or marimba)
In addition, the entrance examination includes prima vista playing and musical capability assignments at the discretion of the Entrance Examination Board, and an interview.
The compositions need not be performed from memory. All compositions are to be performed without accompaniment. You must bring the sheet music for the freely selected assignments to the entrance examination for the Board.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s performances, the Board will assess the applicant’s technical capabilities, performance skills, learning capabilities, motivation, and their ability to develop artistically and technically during their studies.
The Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicants on a scale of 0 to 25.
PIANO
The entrance examination will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
The entrance examination repertoire depends on your year of birth. All compositions must be performed from memory.
Those born in 2011 or later:
- A composition by J.S. Bach
- A fast movement from a Viennese-Classical sonata or sonatina or other equivalent composition
- A freely selected composition or parts of a composition
Those born in 2010 or earlier:
- A three-part invention or prelude and fugue by J.S. Bach
- A fast movement from a Viennese-Classical sonata
- A freely selected composition or parts of a composition
In addition, the Board interviews you and may ask you to provide a prima vista demonstration on your instrument.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s entrance examination performance, the Board will assess the applicant’s technical capabilities, learning capabilities, motivation, and their ability to develop artistically and technically during their studies.
The Board will assess the applicants’ entrance examination performances on a scale of 0 to 25.
VIOLA
The entrance examination will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
In your entrance examination, perform two different types of works or parts of works of your choice. In addition, the Board interviews you and may ask you to provide a prima vista demonstration on your instrument.
The compositions need not be performed from memory. Compositions including accompaniment must be performed with accompaniment. The accompanying instrument is a piano.
You may use your own accompanist or one provided by the university. Notify us of your choice and submit the sheet music via an electronic Webropol form that we will send you by email after the end of the application period. Changes to the accompanist selection cannot be made after the deadline for the submission of the sheet music. The Sibelius Academy does not offer the opportunity to practice with the accompanist before the entrance examination.
If you are using the accompanist provided by the university, submit the sheet music of the works you have selected to the Sibelius Academy no later than on 26 March 2025 via the electronic Webropol form. Submit the sheet music in PDF form and each composition as a single file (not one page per file). The maximum file size is 20 MB. The names of the composer and the composition as well as your name and the main instrument/subject you are applying for must be stated at the beginning of the sheet music of each composition. You must bring the same sheet music to the entrance examination as either originals or taped copies.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s performances, the Board will assess the applicant’s technical capabilities, learning capabilities, motivation, and their ability to develop artistically and technically during their studies.
The Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicants on a scale of 0 to 25.
VIOLIN
The entrance examination will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
In your entrance examination, perform two different types of works of your choice with a total duration of approximately 10 minutes. In addition, the Board interviews you.
All compositions must be performed from memory. All compositions are to be performed without accompaniment.
At its discretion, the Board may listen to only a part of the prepared repertoire if the total duration of the programme exceeds 10 minutes.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s performances, the Board will assess the applicant’s technical capabilities, learning capabilities, motivation, and their ability to develop artistically and technically during their studies.
The Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicants on a scale of 0 to 25.
WOODWIND INSTRUMENTS
The entrance examination will be held on site at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki.
The entrance examination includes:
- Two different works from your instrument’s repertoire list (link below). At least one of these must be a composition with piano accompaniment.
Flute, clarinet and saxophone: The total duration of the selected works approx. 15 min
Oboe and bassoon: The total duration of the selected works approx. 10 min
The compositions need not be performed from memory. Compositions including accompaniment must be performed with accompaniment. The accompanying instrument is a piano. The performed composition(s) may also be a movement or movements of a multi-part work (concerto, sonata or suite). - A brief interview. The board will interview you.
You may use your own accompanist or one provided by the university. Notify us of your choice and submit the sheet music via an electronic Webropol form that we will send you by email after the end of the application period. Changes to the accompanist selection cannot be made after the deadline for the submission of the sheet music. The Sibelius Academy does not offer the opportunity to practice with the accompanist before the entrance examination.
If you are using the accompanist provided by the university, submit the sheet music of the works you have selected to the Sibelius Academy no later than on 26 March 2025 via the electronic Webropol form. Submit the sheet music in PDF form and each composition as a single file (not one page per file). The maximum file size is 20 MB. The names of the composer and the composition as well as your name and the main instrument/subject you are applying for must be stated at the beginning of the sheet music of each composition. You must bring the same sheet music to the entrance examination as either originals or taped copies.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s performances, the Board will assess the applicant’s technical capabilities, performance skills, learning capabilities, motivation, and their ability to develop artistically and technically during their studies.
The Entrance Examination Board will assess the applicants on a scale of 0 to 25.
COMPOSITION
First stage: Advance assignments
Submit the following advance assignments to the Sibelius Academy via the Studyinfo portal no later than at 3pm EET (Finnish time) on 29 January 2025:
- A written account of your previous studies in music (max. 1 standard A4 page), which must include the following details:
- Your name
- Previous studies in composition (teacher’s name, duration and form of studies, institution, and official attainments, if any)
- Previous training and qualifications in the theory and history of music, and aural skills and/or ear training and analysis. Please also state where and when these subjects were studied. If you have completed recognized courses, information about the course in which you attained the highest level or qualification must be provided.
- Previous instrumental studies and other musical activity
- A selection of samples of your own compositions.
The selection of samples is precisely defined. It must include:- Two entries
- An ‘entry’ here means an entire work or a movement from a multi-movement work that can be performed separately
- If your selection of samples consists of two movements, these may be from the same multi-movement work or from two multi-movement works.
- If your selection of samples contains one or two movements from one or two multi-movement works, include a brief explanation of the work(s) from which the movement(s) you submit is/are from.
The total page count of the selection of samples must be between 5 and 40.
If the selection of samples does not comply precisely with the instructions given above, it will be rejected.
Should a sound version of the sample already exist, this should also be included.
Instructions for completing and submitting electronic entrance examination assignments
Based on the scores given for the first stage, the Board will invite some applicants to the second stage of the entrance examination. Information on the results of the first stage will be sent by e-mail.
Second stage
The second stage of the entrance examination includes the following sub-tests:
- Composition assignment and music history essay
- Instrument auditions
- Aural skills, theory, and analysis tests
- Interview and brief text
Detailed instructions and possible additional materials will be sent to those invited to the second stage of the entrance examination by e-mail along with the entrance examination invitation.
- Composition assignment and music history essay
Applicants invited to the second stage of the entrance examination will be sent a composition assignment and an essay assignment based on reading material on the history of music (max. two standard A4 pages).
Submit your assignments via the Studyinfo portal no later than at 3pm EET (Finnish time) on 19 March 2025.
In the composition assignment, the creative ability to solve the assignment in relation to the assignment’s instructions is assessed. - Instrument auditions
Submit your instrument auditions to the Sibelius Academy as a video recording via the Studyinfo portal no later than at 3pm EET (Finnish time) on 19 March 2025.
If your main instrument is the piano, perform an Invention by J.S. Bach or a comparable piece of music; a fast movement from a Viennese Classical sonata; a freely selected piece of music; and any other instrument auditions you wish to include (secondary instrument(s)). You may perform excerpts from extensive works. You may also include improvisation or other demonstrations of your practical musicianship skills (maximum 4 minutes). The maximum total duration of the instrument auditions is 15 min.
If your main instrument is not the piano, perform two works in different styles from your instrument’s core repertoire. In addition, perform one work from the Western classical music repertoire on the piano. You may perform excerpts from extensive works. You may also include improvisation or other demonstrations of your practical musicianship skills (maximum 4 minutes). The maximum total duration of the instrument auditions is 15 min.
An individual piece must be recorded as a continuous and unedited take. However, not all pieces need to be recorded in the same session.
You must play facing the camera so that your face and hands are visible at all times. The video must not be shot from too far away. You must be visible in the frame from head to knees. - Aural skills, theory, and analysis tests
The tests will be conducted by e-mail, in an online environment and/or via a remote connection between 31 March and 1 April 2025.
The test may include assignments testing your sight-reading skills and listening comprehension, and assignments for instance in any of the following: thorough bass realisation, sonata form and other traditional form (e.g. identifying section boundaries and cadences), basic concepts of post-tonal harmony, texture comprehension by ear.
Especially your aural skills and analysis capabilities, ability to write about music and knowledge of the theory and history of music are assessed in the aural skills, theory, and analysis tests. - Interview and brief text
The interviews will be conducted via a remote connection between 3 and 4 April 2025.
Before the interview, you must return a brief text written according to the instructions in the invitation to the second stage (maximum 50 words) on what you are expecting from composition studies. Submit the text via the Studyinfo portal no later than at 3pm EET (Finnish time) on 19 March 2025.
In addition, you must prepare to present the solution to your composition assignment during the interview.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s performances, the Board will assess the applicant’s composing, artistic and musical theory competence, practical musicianship (such as instrumental skills), knowledge of Western art music, and educability and motivation for composition studies.
The components of the entrance examination are weighted as follows:
- Advance assignment (composition samples) 20 %
- Aural skills, theory and analysis tests, and essay on the history of music 35 %
- Interview (including the review of the composition assignment and the instrument auditions) 45 %
MUSIC THEORY
First stage: Advance assignments
Submit the following advance assignments via the Studyinfo portal no later than at 3pm EET (Finnish time) on 29 January 2025:
- A written account of your previous studies in music (max. 1 standard A4 page), which must include the following details:
- Your name
- Previous training and qualifications in the theory and history of music, and aural skills and/or ear training and analysis. Please also state where and when these subjects were studied. If you have completed recognized courses, information about the course in which you attained the highest level or qualification must be provided.
- Previous instrumental studies and other musical activity
- If you apply also to the main subject of Composition, you must submit an account of your previous studies in composition (teacher’s name, duration and form of studies, institution, and official attainments, if any)
- A free-form essay (of max. 500 words), in which you describe your interests and activities within music theory
Instructions for completing and submitting electronic entrance examination assignments
All applicants who have submitted their advance assignments by the deadline and have been found to be eligible will be invited to the second stage of the entrance examination.
Second stage
The second stage of the entrance examination includes the following sub-tests:
- Essay on the history of music
- Aural skills, theory and analysis tests
Detailed instructions will be sent by e-mail along with the entrance examination invitation.
- Essay on the history of music
Applicants invited to the second stage of the entrance examination will be sent an essay assignment based on reading material on the history of music (max. two standard A4 pages).
Submit your assignment via the Studyinfo portal no later than at 3pm EET (Finnish time) on 19 March 2025. - Aural skills, theory and analysis tests
The tests will be conducted by e-mail, in an online environment and/or via a remote connection between 31 March and 1 April 2025.
The test may include assignments testing your sight-reading skills and listening comprehension, and assignments for instance in any of the following: thorough bass realisation, sonata form and other traditional form (e.g. identifying section boundaries and cadences), basic concepts of post-tonal harmony, texture comprehension by ear.
Especially your aural skills and analysis capabilities, ability to write about music and knowledge of the theory and history of music are assessed in the aural skills, theory and analysis tests.
Based on the scores given for the second stage, the Board will invite some applicants to the third stage of the entrance examination. Applicants invited to the third stage will be notified by e-mail.
Third stage
The third stage of the entrance examination includes the following sub-tests:
- Instrument auditions
- Interview
The schedule, detailed instructions and possible additional material for the third stage will be sent with the entrance examination invitation.
- Instrument auditions
Submit your instrument auditions to the Sibelius Academy as a video recording via the Studyinfo portal no later than at 3pm EET (Finnish time) on 19 March 2025. All applicants must submit their instrument audition recording by the given deadline, but only the assignments of the applicants invited to the third stage will be assessed.
If your main instrument is the piano, perform an Invention by J.S. Bach or a comparable piece of music; a fast movement from a Viennese Classical sonata; a freely selected piece of music; and any other instrument auditions you wish to include (secondary instrument(s)). You may perform excerpts from extensive works. You may also include improvisation or other demonstrations of your practical musicianship skills (maximum 4 minutes). The maximum total duration of the instrument auditions is 15 min.
If your main instrument is not the piano, perform two works in different styles from your instrument’s core repertoire. In addition, perform one work from the Western classical music repertoire on the piano. You may perform excerpts from extensive works. You may also include improvisation or other demonstrations of your practical musicianship skills (maximum 4 minutes). The maximum total duration of the instrument auditions is 15 min.
An individual piece must be recorded as a continuous and unedited take. However, not all pieces need to be recorded in the same session.
You must play facing the camera so that your face and hands are visible at all times. The video must not be shot from too far away. You must be visible in the frame from head to knees. - Interview
The interviews will be conducted via a remote connection on 3 and 4 April 2025.
During the interview, you will need a piano, keyboard, guitar, or accordion. If it is not possible for you to use one of these instruments during the interview, the Board will assess the assignment in question based on your verbal comments.
Assessment criteria
Based on the applicant’s performances, the Board will assess the applicant’s music theory and analysis skills, musical knowledge (especially Western art music), practical musicianship (such as instrumental skills), and educability and motivation for studying.
The components of the entrance examination are weighted as follows:
- Aural skills, theory and analysis tests, and essay on the history of music 60 %
- Interview (including the instrument auditions) 40 %
Questions or comments?
You can contact us via e-mail at siba.admissions@uniarts.fi or siba.nuorisokoulutus@uniarts.fi.