Everything You Need to Know for Your AMEB String Exam

AMEB exams are an important milestone for string students. Whether it’s your first exam or your fifth, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves is completely normal. With the right preparation and mindset, you can approach your exam confidently and enjoy the journey along the way!

Here’s a practical guide to help you succeed in your AMEB exam, from preparation to exam day, and beyond.

1. AMEB Exam Preparation: The Key to Stress-Free Success

Preparation is key to a successful AMEB exam. This means more than just practicing your pieces—it’s about building technical skills, musicality, and confidence.

Top preparation tips for AMEB exam success:

• Create a personalised practice schedule:
  Start early and practise consistently with structured practice sessions. Work with your teacher to create a plan that fits your learning style and your routine—one you know you can stick to and that works best for you. Use a practice diary to stay organised and on track.
  
  
• Replace your strings:
  Make sure your instrument is sounding its best with a fresh set of strings. Change them at least one week before your AMEB exam so they have time to settle in. Simply for Strings stocks a wide range of violin, viola, cello and double bass strings for every player. (BONUS TIP: Keep a spare set of strings in your case as backup).
  
  
• Purchase original sheet music:
  AMEB exams require original sheet music—no photocopies allowed! Simply for Strings stocks a wide range of AMEB Grade books, as well as individual pieces. Refer to the AMEB Manual of Syllabuses to ensure you purchase the correct edition. (BONUS TIP: Order your sheet music well ahead of time to avoid stress).
  
  
• Book a session with your accompanist:
  Schedule a one or two run-throughs with your accompanist before your AMEB exam. This helps you coordinate entrances and timings, so your performance is polished and confident.
  
  
• Practice sight-reading and aural skills:
  These are essential parts of your AMEB exam. Incorporate a few minutes of daily practice for sight-reading and listening exercises. Shop AMEB Aural Tests and Sight Reading for violin, viola or cello.
  
  
• Run an exam dress rehearsal:
  Play through your technical exercises and pieces and ask friends or family to be your audience. This helps you get comfortable performing in front of others and makes exam day feel much less stressful.

2. AMEB Exam Day Tips: Performing with Confidence

When it’s finally exam day, staying relaxed and focused will help your performance truly reflect your hard work. Here’s how to show up at your best:

• Arrive early: Give yourself time to settle, warm up, and get comfortable in the exam space.
• Warm up properly: Stretch, loosen your shoulders, and play through your warm-up routine to get physically and mentally ready.
• Breathe and focus: Feeling nervous is normal. Take deep breaths and remind yourself of all the preparation you’ve done.
• Follow instructions carefully: Listen closely to the examiner and try not to rush. Stay focused and confident throughout your performance.

3. After Your AMEB Exam: Reflect, Reward, and Plan Next Steps

Your AMEB exam is over—congratulations! Reflection and celebration are just as important as preparation.

• Reflect on your performance: What went well? Which areas could you improve? Let the examiner’s comments help you build on your progress and set your next goals.
• Reward yourself: Celebrate your hard work. Treat yourself to something special, take a break, or simply enjoy playing music for fun.
• Plan your next goals: Use your reflections to set new musical goals!

Final Notes

At Simply for Strings, we’re here to support you every step of your AMEB exam journey. From providing all your exam sheet music to instrument servicing and professional setups, we make sure you feel fully prepared. Our team can also help with string changes, repertoire recommendations, personalised practice tips, and more, so you can approach your exam with confidence and perform at your very best.

Good luck, and enjoy the experience! Remember, your AMEB exam is a celebration of all your hard work and progress. Take a moment to breathe, stay present while you play, and trust in your preparation—you’ve got this!

Exam Resources:

Other Helpful Resources:

AMEB Manual of Syllabuses → 

AMEB Theory of Music Books →

AMEB Practice Diary → 

AMEB Exam Preparation Guide → 

AMEB QLD Exam On the Day Checklist → 

Written by: Annabel Hendrie - Marketing Manager, Simply for Strings
Published: 18 March 2026 
Last updated: 18 March 2026