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Frequently Asked Questions about the Aural Skills Exam

What is the Aural Skills Exam?

The Aural Skills Exam, or Aliferis Test, is a three part listening exam required for students auditioning for the School of Music. It includes a harmonic, melodic, and rhythmic section. There are 64 multiple choice questions. The test is recorded on a CD and takes approximately 35 minutes.

Do you have to take this test to be admitted to the School of Music?

Yes. The only way you are exempt from this test is if you have taken the AP Music Theory test and received a 4 or higher. A good score on this test is often helpful in making a decision when there are close candidates for admittance. It is also required before you can register for any music major classes.

What is a passing score for the exam?

On average, the previously accepted applicants got approximately half of the questions correct (out of 64 questions). If you are accepted to the School of Music, you must have a 30 or higher to register for music major classes.

How many times can I take the exam?

You may take the exam as many times as you'd like.

How do I take the test?

There are three ways you can take the test:

  1. It is offered twice: at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on the audition day in January for no charge. All the materials for the test are provided. Ask at check-in where the test will be held.

  2. You can take it any time through the BYU Testing Center. You must call 801-422-6147 to schedule an appointment. There is a $5 charge.

  3. If you are out-of-state or unable to come to BYU, we can arrange for you to take it through a proctor. The proctor should be a music teacher, either from a school or private lessons. To arrange to take the test through a proctor, call 801-422-2660 or send an email to musicundergraduate@byu.edu with the following information:

    • Proctor's name, address, phone number
    • Student's name, phone number, and email address

How can I prepare for this exam?

  • Enrolling in Music 190 at BYU (if you are a current BYU student).

  • Studying a good beginning music theory text, such as Paul O. Harder and Greg A. Steinke's Basic Materials in Music Theory: A Programmed Course, 9th ed. (Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall, 1999).

  • Practicing your ear training with such computer programs as Musica Practica and Guido.

  • Studying at an appropriate web site, such as:

Last modified: November 04, 2009 Maintained by CFAC Webmasters.

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