Common student sizes

1/16 violin
Typical age: 3 to 5. Arm length guidance: About 14 inches.
1/10 violin
Typical age: 4 to 5. Arm length guidance: About 15 inches.
1/8 violin
Typical age: 5 to 6. Arm length guidance: About 16 inches.
1/4 violin
Typical age: 6 to 7. Arm length guidance: About 18 inches.
1/2 violin
Typical age: 7 to 9. Arm length guidance: About 20 inches.
3/4 violin
Typical age: 9 to 12. Arm length guidance: About 22 inches.
4/4 violin
Typical age: 11+ to adult. Arm length guidance: About 23+ inches.

Confirm the fit

A shop or teacher may size a student by measuring neck-to-palm reach and checking whether the instrument can be held comfortably without strain.