Nominating your referee for conservatoire applications - 2026 entry

You will need to provide the details of one referee as part of your UCAS Conservatoires application.  Your referee will only need to write a reference if they are asked to do so by one of the conservatoires you have applied to. They will not normally be asked to write a reference unless this is specified in the admission requirements for your course. 

• Enter your referee’s details into the reference section of the application – they will not have to provide a reference at the point of application. You should check that the person you choose is willing and able to provide a detailed and timely response if contacted by the conservatoire. Discuss your application with them, so they understand the significance of their role and what may be required; conservatoires are only likely to request additional context when it is critical in making a decision on your application. 
• Once all sections are complete, you must pay any fees, before sending your application to us.

Looking for guidance for 2025 entry? 

When applying to a conservatoire, you should choose a referee who knows you well enough to write about your abilities and your suitability for the course. They could be your current tutor, an employer, a head or department or a private teacher. 

Here’s how to select the best referee:

Choose someone who knows your abilities well: Select a person who is familiar with your skills and potential in your chosen field of study. This could be a music teacher, a tutor, or a professional mentor who has seen your progress and can speak directly to your strengths and readiness for conservatoire training. 
 
Academic and professional insight: Ideally, your referee should be able to provide a balanced view of both your technical skills (e.g. instrument proficiency, performance skills) and personal qualities like commitment, reliability, and potential for growth in a conservatoire setting. 
 
Clear communication: Ensure that the person you choose is willing and able to provide a detailed and timely response if contacted by the conservatoire. Discuss your application with them, so they understand the significance of their role and what may be required. 
 
Prepare them with context: Share details about the conservatoires you are applying to, the course you wish to study, and why you believe this opportunity is a good fit for you. This will help your referee provide relevant and targeted information if they are asked for a reference. 

 

If you’re unsure about who to select, we recommend checking with the conservatoires for further guidance.  

It is not permitted for either you, your family, friends, partners or ex-partners to write your reference. If subsequently we find this to be the case, the application may be cancelled. 

Find out what referees will need to include in your reference