Education Standards and Evaluation Methods
Oberlin College and Conservatory, located in Oberlin, Ohio, has announced a shift in its admissions process for the music conservatory, emphasising musical talent and other aspects over standardized testing.
In this new approach, the Conservatory does not formally require SAT or ACT scores as part of their music conservatory admissions. Instead, the key admissions requirements focus on audition performance, academic record, and other application materials. This holistic admissions process reflects Oberlin's commitment to recognising and nurturing raw musical talent.
For domestic applicants, self-reported test scores can be submitted, but official score reports will be required upon enrollment. However, for international applicants whose first language is not English, English proficiency testing is likely required, typically through exams like TOEFL or IELTS. It is advisable to consult directly with the Conservatory's admissions office for definitive and current policies on English proficiency tests, as requirements can vary by program and applicant background.
The academic units at Oberlin are equivalent to one year of study in a particular subject area. All applicants must have completed a minimum of 15 academic units. For applicants in TIMARA, Recording Arts & Production, and Master of Music in Historical Performance, the Music Theory exam must be completed by February 1 for admission consideration. All other undergraduate applicants are encouraged to take the Music Theory exam at their earliest convenience, and admitted students will be required to take it by June 15. High scores on the Music Theory exam may result in placement in a more advanced class.
Musical talent, as demonstrated in an audition, is more important than academic achievement in determining admission to Oberlin's conservatory. Homeschooled applicants to the conservatory should submit an academic portfolio with a detailed syllabus, including subjects studied each year, dates, course descriptions, major texts, and evidence of science laboratory experiences.
Oberlin College's SAT Code is 1587 and ACT Code is 3304. For international applicants, the TOEFL Code for Oberlin College is 1587.
Applicants who are unable to take required language exams due to unavailability can request a waiver by emailing [email protected].
For further clarifications, contact the Conservatory Admissions Office at 39 West College Street, Oberlin, OH 44074, Phone: 440-775-8413, Email: [email protected].
[1] Oberlin College and Conservatory Admissions Website [2] Oberlin College and Conservatory Admission Policies and Procedures
Education-and-self-development opportunities at Oberlin College include online courses through their website, as they strive to offer a variety of learning resources for students. The Conservatory, when assessing applications for their music program, prioritizes an audition performance, academic record, and other application materials, emphasizing musical talent over standardized testing.
