Acoustic Guitar

About LCME Acoustic Guitar Exams

There are eight LCME Acoustic Guitar grades, plus two introductory levels, four performance diplomas and three teaching diplomas.

The standard graded exams consist of a performance of two pieces, fingerboard knowledge, musical knowledge, accompaniment and aural assessment.

We also provide alternatives to our standard examination format designed to offer something different for our diverse range of candidates:

  • Recital Grade – an entirely performance-based live exam

Resources

 

New own-choice options for Acoustic Guitar exams

From 5 October 2026, candidates can choose their own music for some parts of in-person Graded Acoustic Guitar exams.

Own-choice pieces are now an option in the Performance part of the exam. They must be of a similar standard and duration, and can include pieces set for the same grade by another exam board regulated by Ofqual. The options depend on the grade, so please check the full details in the PDF.

Candidates must give the examiner a copy of the music for any own-choice piece before the exam begins. The existing requirements still apply. Recorded exams have their own requirements.

Read the guitar syllabus updates (PDF)

Also available

Book your LCME Acoustic Guitar exam now

New guitarists sometimes need help understanding the differences between classical guitars and acoustic guitars. They are different instruments with different LCME syllabuses and, therefore, different exams.

Please check that you are entering the right exam. If you’re unsure which exam you should enter, please look at the title of your Grade book. Alternatively, you can speak to your local rep, check with your teacher, or get in touch with us directly - contact us.

Our Acoustic Guitar exams are run by the Registry of Guitar Tutors (RGT). They offer in-person and digital exams. Click below to book your exam now:

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Book your in-person exam

Book your recorded exam

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What’s in the exam

Pre-Grade 1

Exam content

Step 1:

  • Fingerboard knowledge
  • Performance

Step 2:

  • Fingerboard knowledge
  • Performance
  • Aural assessment

 

Download Syllabus

Grades

Exam content

  • Fingerboard knowledge
  • Performance
  • Musical knowledge
  • Accompaniment
  • Aural assessment

Download Syllabus

Recital Grades

Exam content

Steps 1 & 2:

  • Rhythm study
  • Melodies

Levels 1 & 2:

  • Rhythm study
  • Fingerstyle study
  • Melody

Levels 3, 4 & 5:

  • Rhythm study
  • Pieces

Levels 6, 7 & 8:

  • Pieces
DipLCM

Exam content

  • Performance
  • Programme notes
ALCM

Exam content

  • Performance
  • Programme notes
LLCM

Exam content

  • Performance
  • Programme notes
FLCM

Exam content

  • Performance
  • Programme notes

 

DipLCM Teaching

Exam content

  • Fingerboard knowledge
  • Lesson
  • Presentation
  • Discussion
ALCM Teaching

Exam content

  • Essay
  • Lesson
  • Presentation
  • Discussion
  • Chart reading
LLCM Teaching

Exam content

  • Dissertation
  • Lesson
  • Presentation
  • Discussion
  • Chart reading