Grades and Assessment
The examination comprises three stages and eight grades. Grades 1–4 focus primarily on still-life drawing from observation; Grades 5–8 focus primarily on theme-based creative work.
Summary of Question Arrangements
For Grades 5–6, three formal examination questions are published in advance and candidates select one on the day. For Grade 7, three thematic directions are published in advance, with the specific question released on the day of the examination. The Grade 8 question is released on the day of the examination. Please refer to the Examination Questions and Sample Papers page for details.
Grade Overview
Level 1 – Grade 1: Recommended age 5–6 years | Still-life drawing from observation | 75 minutes | 390 × 270 mm
Level 1 – Grade 2: Recommended age 6–8 years | Still-life drawing from observation | 90 minutes | 390 × 270 mm
Level 1 – Grade 3: Recommended age 7–9 years | Still-life drawing from observation | 90 minutes | 390 × 270 mm
Level 2 – Grade 4: Recommended age 8–11 years | Still-life drawing from observation | 120 minutes | 390 × 270 mm
Level 2 – Grade 5: Recommended age 10–13 years | Theme-based creative work | 120 minutes | 390 × 270 mm
Level 3 – Grade 6: Recommended age 11–15 years | Theme-based creative work | 120 minutes | 390 × 270 mm
Level 3 – Grade 7: Recommended age 13–17 years | Theme-based creative work | 180 minutes | 540 × 390 mm
Level 3 – Grade 8: Recommended age 17 years or above | Theme-based creative work | 180 minutes | 540 × 390 mm
Media Rules
Grades 1–4
As a general rule, candidates should use one principal medium in the on-site examination. A drafting pencil and essential supporting tools may be used to a limited extent. Permitted options include oil pastels, coloured pencils, watercolours, marker pens, acrylic paint and pencils.
Grades 5–8
There is no restriction on painting or drawing media. Candidates may choose to work with one or more paints or drawing tools, including oil pastels, coloured pencils, watercolours, marker pens, acrylic paint and pencils.
Assessment Components and Result Grades
Grades 1–6: on-site examination 85%; portfolio 15%.
Result Grades
Grades 7–8: on-site examination 85%; portfolio artwork 10%; art criticism essay 5%.
Results are graded as Distinction / Merit / Pass / Fail.