FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

These FAQ's have been designed to answer any preliminary questions you may have about the ICMP. But if you don't find the answer you need here, then don't hesitate to contact us!

How do I enrol on a course?

In order to enrol on full-time courses you must first make an application and then undergo an assessment or audition. Depending on your course of interest, you may then need to fill in an enrolment form and pay the holding deposit (£300 for full-time courses), or move on to the next stage of the admissions process.  To be considered ‘fully enrolled’ you must pay full course fees ONE MONTH before the course commences.  Late enrolments are up to the discretion of Admissions and students that have not paid their course fees may not begin their course until the balance is taken care of.

What’s an assessment?

An assessment is the Institute’s way to check what level your playing/singing is at and what course would best suit your talent and personal objectives.  These assessments are free of charge and generally last no longer than 30 minutes (longer for degree auditions).  These take place at the Institute facilities with a member of our teaching faculty. Contact Admissions to book your FREE assessment.

I don’t think I’m good enough to apply for a place at the Institute. Is the standard very high?

This is a common question – but there is nothing to worry about! While we hold auditions and assessments for many of our students, this is primarily to ensure that they are allocated to the correct level of course to optimise their learning pathway. You have nothing to fear! The Institute is a very friendly place, and staff and fellow students are all extremely supportive. We understand that everyone has to begin somewhere and we respect the desire to improve as a musician, or to begin to play an instrument as a beginner. Our staff are trained for this purpose. We exist to help you become a better player or singer! While our courses aim to challenge you, you will not be placed on any course that is beyond your potential and abilities.

How many hours per week will I be studying?

This varies from course to course. However, the Institute takes the education of our students extremely seriously and generally we offer more contact teaching and/or guided learning hours than any other school. If you are applying elsewhere, check how many contact teaching hours you are going to get for your money!

How many students are there per class?

Here at the Institute we have a general rule: no more than 12 students per tutor.  For some modes of delivery and where the student learning experience is not affected (lectures, for example) class numbers are higher.

How much do courses cost?

This depends on the course or classes you are taking. Contact our Admissions team on 020 7328 0222 or check www.icmp.co.uk for details of course costs, payment terms, and special offers.

Where is the BMus Degree taught?

Degree classes take place at the Institute’s facilities in North-West London. The programme is validated by UEL and students are registered with both UEL and the Institute. In addition to the Institute’s facilities and support, UEL provides further support in many areas so contact Admissions for more details.

I am an international student. Does this affect my enrolment?

International students are welcome at the Institute and are generally subject to the same assessment, audition and enrolment process as domestic students. Any students from outside the EU who require legal documentation to study in the UK can obtain this documentation from the Institute only after full course fees have been paid. Students must ensure they have a valid visa for study, and will be required to provide a copy of this visa upon arrival at the Institute.  Should a student from outside the EU not arrive for the start of their course, or should their attendance fall below the threshold set out by the Immigration Nationality Directorate, the Institute will inform the IND and pass on any relevant student details.

Is financial aid available?

There are options available to students for financial support. Students should contact the Institute’s admissions team directly to discuss their own circumstances, or consult ‘The Institute ‘Guide to Funding’ which is usually published around the beginning of each calendar year.

For Career Development Loans (CDL’s) more information can be obtained on their website: www.direct.gov.uk/cdl 

Where will I live?

Since the Institute is a private school, there is no available housing for students. However there is plenty of affordable housing in the area and our students never have problem finding flats or house-shares locally.  Check the Institute online forum, which can be found in the community section of our website, or talk to our Admissions team who have knowledge of local agencies. If you are taking a part-time or intensive course, there are many bed & breakfasts available in the area.

How do I book a private lesson?

The Institute offers private lessons for all instruments and levels.  If you are interested in taking advantage of some excellent private tuition please contact reception on 020 7604 2460.

Can I attend masterclasses?

All student activities, including masterclasses and clinics, are free of charge for all Institute students.  If you are not a current student and want to attend please contact one of our Admissions Advisors for further information.

Can the Institute get me a job as a musician?

Not directly. However, the Institute is well connected into the London and International music scene, and does provide opportunities for students to begin building their own networks into the music industry, advice on how best to develop a career in the music industry, contacts and opportunities for musicians to begin working and gigging from time to time, jam nights, gig nights and other promotional events for students to gain practical experience of performing and organising themselves professionally. Every musician has a different professional journey, and the Institute understands this.

Am I too old to take a course at the Institute?

You are never too old to study music!! Our students range in age from 14 years of age and in some cases up to 60 and beyond. It is never too late to follow your dream!  

I need to defer my enrolment.  How can I do this?

A student is able to defer their course and associated fees for up to one academic year.  If a student needs to defer they need to send their request in writing to the Academic Administration department immediately. If a student defers beyond the restricted period they may lose their associated fees and place on future courses.

What is the cancellation procedure?

If you want to cancel your enrolment on any course (full or part-time) you must submit in writing the reason for your cancellation of study, and in medical cases provide full doctors’ documentation. Deposits are generally non-refundable. The return of any funds already paid is entirely at the discretion of the management.

How do I get to the Institute?

We are located conveniently for tube, overland rail, car, bus and every other means of transport! Nearest tube is Kilburn on the Jubilee line, and Brondesbury station for the Overground rail service.  Further detailed directions and a map can be found on the 'contact us' page on this website.

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Should you need any further information, want to discuss the best option for you or wish to book a free assessment or audition, then either:

• Attend one of our open days, regularly posted on our website, or
• Contact one of our admissions advisers directly who would be only too happy to   speak with you