It is the desire of NZMEB that all entrants achieve to the very best of their ability and we are committed to ensuring the examination experience is a positive one. We recognize that some entrants have unique challenges and special needs. In order to support these students, provisions such as adapted musicianship tests and additional time are provided, however all entrants are treated equally with regard to marking.
We are happy to discuss your entrants individual needs if these are not met by our standard arrangements for students with special needs.
The following guidelines are designed to assist you with your exam preparation.
Exam Entry
It is vital that you let us know of any diagnosed special needs at the time of application. When completing your application form, please include a cover letter with specific details about your own, or your student's needs.
Entrants who are Blind or have Low Vision
Entrants may be accompanied into the exam room and assisted to familiarize themselves with their surroundings.
Practical Examinations
Additional time will be added to the standard exam times.
No penalty will be incurred for lack of 'prompt' response for the scales.
Alternative musicianship tests are not used, however the tests will be adapted to suit the entrants needs.
Musicianship tests can be requested in Braille or large print.
Students with Low Vision can also request that the musicianship tests be provided on coloured paper.
Theory Examination
Entrants may use an amanuensis to act as a reader, a scribe, or both.
Entrants who are Blind will be supplied with a Braille exam paper.
Entrants who have Low Vision can request a large print exam paper, on white or coloured paper.
Entrants who have Dyslexia or Autism Spectrum Disorders
Practical Examinations
Additional time will be added to the standard exam times.
No penalty will be incurred for lack of 'prompt' response for the scales.
In the case of high-anxiety in an unfamiliar environment, the entrant will be permitted to bring a familiar and comforting item into the exam room.
Theory Examination
Entrants may use an amanuensis to act as a reader, a scribe, or both.
Entrants who are Hearing Impaired
Practical Examinations
Entrants may be accompanied into the exam by someone who will act as an interpreter. The interpreter must not be a close family member.
Additional time will be added to the standard exam times.
No penalty will be incurred for lack of 'prompt' response for the scales.
Alternative musicianship tests are not used, however the tests will be adapted to suit the entrants needs.
Entrants with Other Disabilities
NZMEB is aware that the nature of many disabilities is unique to the individual. If standard arrangements do not meet your needs, please contact the Board to discuss this and make alternative arrangements.