UMA Dance Proficiency Certification – Official Examination Guide
1. Examination Overview
The UMA Dance Proficiency Certification is open to dance learners and performers worldwide. The examination is conducted via online video submission and evaluated by an international panel of UMA-certified examiners.
The certification levels range from Grade 1 to Grade 9, with an additional Performance Diploma to assess whether candidates possess professional-level stage performance and artistic expression capabilities.
2. Dance Categories Covered
This certification applies to a wide range of dance forms worldwide, including but not limited to:
Classical Ballet / Contemporary Ballet
Modern / Contemporary Dance
Jazz Dance
Street Dance(Hip-Hop, Breaking, Popping, Locking, etc.)
Latin Dance(Samba, Cha-Cha, Rumba, Paso Doble, Jive, etc.)
Ballroom Dance(Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Quickstep, Viennese Waltz, etc.)
Tap Dance
Musical Theatre Dance
Character Dance(Classical or folk dance-based theatrical works)
World Folk Dance(Chinese ethnic dance, Flamenco, Spanish dance, Indian dance, African dance, Irish step dance, etc.)
Other dance forms recognized and approved by UMA
Candidates may select the dance category based on their learning background and area of expertise.
3. General Examination Requirements
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of Performance Pieces | Grades 1–5: Submit 1 dance pieceGrades 6–9: Submit 2 dance piecesPerformance Diploma: Submit 3 dance pieces |
| Piece Selection | Candidates may choose from UMA-specified repertoire or submit original choreography by themselves or their instructor. The difficulty level must match the grade applied for. |
| Video Recording | Each piece must be recorded in a single take without cuts or edits. The video must clearly show full-body movements, dance space, and facial expressions. |
| Music Copyright | Unauthorized music is prohibited. The audio and video must be synchronized with clear quality. |
| Evaluation Dimensions | Technical skills, sense of rhythm, spatial utilization, artistic expression, and stage presentation. |
| File Size Limit | Each video file must not exceed 1GB; formats accepted: MP4, MOV, AVI. |
| Opening Self-Introduction | At the beginning of each video, candidates must briefly introduce themselves in English, including: name, age, country/city, applied grade, years of dance experience, and reason for loving dance. |
4. Performance Requirements by Level
Grades 1–5 (Beginner to Intermediate)
Submit 1 dance piece
Focus on: correctness of basic movements, musicality, body control, and completion of simple choreography.
Grades 6–9 (Advanced to Pre-Professional)
Submit 2 dance pieces
Focus on: complex choreography, spatial level changes, body line aesthetics, rhythm and music integration, and expression of emotion.
Performance Diploma
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of Pieces | 3 dance pieces, each reflecting different choreographic structures or performance themes (may be the same dance genre but with varied choreography styles). |
| Technical & Artistic Standards | Must demonstrate professional-level technical control, stage presence, and artistic integrity. |
| Submission Format | Each piece may be recorded separately but must be performed in a single take. |
| Result | Successful candidates will be awarded the UMA Performance Diploma in Dance. |
5. Evaluation Criteria
| Dimension | Score | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Technique & Accuracy | 30 pts | Basic skills, movement accuracy, balance, and strength control. |
| Musicality & Rhythm | 30 pts | Rhythm accuracy, coordination between movement and music. |
| Artistic Expression & Emotion | 30 pts | Facial expression, emotion delivery, storytelling, and audience engagement. |
| Stage Presentation & Deportment | 10 pts | Costume, appearance, stage confidence, and video quality. |
Pass: Total score ≥ 75 points
With Distinction: Total score ≥ 90 points
6. Video Submission Requirements
Orientation: Landscape mode
Framing: Full body must be visible, ensuring clear view of arms, legs, and spatial movement
Performance Integrity: No cuts, no special effects, no audio enhancements
Recording Equipment: Mobile phone or camera may be used; external microphones recommended for better sound quality
File Naming: Name + Grade (e.g., Allen
_Grade7)
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