Examining Body
Royal Academy of Dance
The world's largest ballet education and examination body
Best For
Ballet students and teachers seeking internationally recognized graded examinations
Overview
Founded in 1920 as the Association of Teachers of Operatic Dancing and granted a Royal Charter in 1935, the RAD is the world's largest and most influential ballet examination body. With over 400,000 students and 8,000 teachers across 85 countries, its graded syllabus provides a structured pathway from beginner to professional-level ballet training.
History
Founded in 1920 by a group of leading dancers representing five national ballet traditions: English, French, Danish, Italian, and Russian.
Originally named the Association of Teachers of Operatic Dancing, reflecting the era's terminology for ballet.
Granted a Royal Charter by King George V in 1935, becoming the Royal Academy of Dancing.
Developed the first internationally standardized graded examination syllabus for ballet, creating a common language for ballet education worldwide.
Rebranded to Royal Academy of Dance in 1999 to better reflect its scope.
Today operates in 85 countries with over 400,000 students annually, making it the ballet equivalent of ISTD for ballroom dance.
Governance & Structure
Governed by a Board of Trustees under the terms of its Royal Charter.
International headquarters in London with regional offices across major continents.
Examination panels travel worldwide to assess students at registered schools.
Teachers must hold RAD teaching qualifications to enter students for examinations.
Competition Structure
The Genée International Ballet Competition is the RAD's premier annual event, named after Dame Adeline Genée.
Students progress through Graded examinations (Pre-Primary through Grade 8) and Vocational Graded examinations (Intermediate Foundation through Solo Seal).
The Solo Seal Award is the highest examination achievement, roughly equivalent to professional entry level.
Key Programs
Graded Examinations
Progressive syllabus from Pre-Primary to Grade 8, designed for recreational and pre-professional students.
Vocational Graded Examinations
Professional-track examinations from Intermediate Foundation to Advanced 2.
Solo Seal Award
The pinnacle RAD examination, demonstrating professional-level artistry and technique.
Genée International Ballet Competition
Annual international competition for young dancers aged 15-19.
Membership & Access
Students access RAD examinations through registered teachers. Teachers must complete RAD-approved training programs to become registered.
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