nlen
dates

Registration for the 2026 entrance examinations for students starting in the 2026–2027 academic year has now closed.

We will announce the new dates in early December 2026. At that point, you will also be able to register via our platform (step 2).

If you're curious about what the exam involves, read on. Please note that this information is subject to change until early December.

Have you completed your registration (step 2) and
submitted your preparatory dossier (step 3)?
If so, you are welcome to take part in the admission test.

when?

You will receive a detailed schedule in the week before your chosen session begins.
You are expected to be available on all the specified days.

where?
Campus Grote sikkel - Biezekapelstraat
Hoogpoort 64, 9000 Ghent

preparatory dossier

deadlines
- session May:
- session July:
- session August:

The candidate will submit a minimum of 3 compositions (on score and/or recording in MP3 format) using the entry form. Fill in the necessary questions. Additional information (such as reviews, video,...) can also be shared via the form.

Based on the portfolio, a task is communicated to the candidates just under a week before the entrance exam. This assignment consists of two parts, a short analysis of a 20th- or 21st-century composition, and a short, new piece of music to be composed.

the test


The test consists of four parts:

  • Solfeggio, ear training and general music theory
  • Written test
  • Practical test
  • Motivation interview

Solfeggio, ear training and general music theory

This test is compulsory for everyone.

Session May and July: Those who fail this subtest, but have passed the other subtests, will be given the chance to take this test again. If you pass this second attempt, you will be admitted to the study.

Session August: Those who do not pass this partial test cannot retake it.

written test

The written test consists of three sections. The first is a list of words or proper nouns that the student must define as accurately as possible. This is followed by two text excerpts. The student summarizes the first one in their own words. The second serves as the basis for a short opinion piece. The goal is to allow the examination committee to form an impression of the candidate’s general knowledge and theoretical background, as well as to assess their language proficiency and ability to reason.

practical test

This practical test consists of several parts:

  • Test basic technique on keyboard/piano. Prepare a piece that demonstrates your level on piano.
  • Possibly: test own instrument (if other than piano/keyboard) or musical expression tool (e.g. laptop).
  • Evaluation of the composition portfolio (forwarded scores, recordings, etc.).
  • Questioning of the assignment imposed after digital submission of the portfolio.

motivation interview

During an individual interview, the candidate's motivation towards an art course in general and the specific field of study in particular will be examined. The experiences during the practical test as well as the composition of the candidate's portfolio can be a guide here. It is important that the candidate can explain own choices and clarify the study choice and expectations.

Interests, general and cultural knowledge, ability to think, creative attitude, insights and communication skills are assessed. Important qualities here may include critical sense, commitment, drive, love of art and music, perseverance, self-discipline, sense of humour,...

proclamation and feedback

Please note that locations and times are subject to change. Changes will be announced on the spot.

On the last day of the session (or Monday evening after session 1), there will be deliberations and proclamation including a post-session discussion. During the proclamation, candidates will learn whether they are accepted or not. Immediately after the proclamation there is an opportunity for a debriefing, at which third parties may also be present. An e-mail with the results will be sent out after each proclamation.