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GENERAL QUESTIONS

Do I need to have training or experience in a circus discipline to be eligible for any of the NCS programs?

No. Experience in a particular circus discipline is not required to be eligible. However, the NCS favors people with experience in the practice of at least one of the following disciplines: martial arts, acrobatic sports, gymnastics, trampoline, diving, dance, figure skating, or any other relevant activity.

Steps related to obtaining a study permit and a Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) – Useful links

AUDITIONS

If I’m not accepted, can I audition again next year?

Yes.

Do I need to perform all the exercises in the mandatory audition video (Step 1) to be eligible?

No. You should demonstrate the exercises you have mastered from among those requested.

CIRCUS ARTS PROGRAM (DEC 561.D0 / DSS)

Is there an age limit to be eligible for the Circus Arts programs?

No.

How many people per year does the NCS admit to its Circus Arts program?

The number of places is limited. On average, 25 people are admitted to the program each year.

How many years do the Circus Arts program last?

The Circus Arts programs last three years.

What is the Tremplin DEC program?

The Tremplin DEC program is a one-year preparatory/upgrading year taken before studies leading to a Diploma of College Studies (DEC) or a School Attestation (AEE).

If I have a DSC, which courses could I get credit for?

French, English and Philosophy courses are normally credited.

Do I need to be proficient in French to be eligible for the Circus Arts programs?

No. For the AEE program, French knowledge is not required. However, good French proficiency can support admission to the DEC program. For this reason, we will assess each candidate’s French level to guide them toward the appropriate program. Oral and written French tests will be administered as part of the audition process. Depending on the results, the Tremplin DEC or AEE pathways may also be recommended.

If I am from a country other than Canada, can I get Canadian financial aid?

No. Unfortunately, Canada does not offer financial aid for students from other countries. However, you can apply for a scholarship from the National Circus School Foundation.

If I am from a country other than Canada, can I work at the same time as I pursue my training at the NCS?

Yes, depending on whether your student visa allows you to do so*.

 

* A study visa does not automatically guarantee obtaining a work visa.

I did not obtain the equivalent of a Québec Secondary School Diploma (DES). Am I eligible for the Circus Arts programs (DEC and AEE)?

No. You must have at least the equivalent of a Québec Secondary School Diploma (DES) to be eligible.

I am currently studying in Canada and am completing (or have completed) Grade 11 (11 years of schooling). Am I eligible for the Circus Arts programs (DEC and AEE)?

Yes.

I have studied at university. Am I eligible for the Circus Arts programs (DEC and AEE)?

Yes.

I was homeschooled. Am I eligible for the Circus Arts programs (DEC and AEE)?

Yes, provided you obtain official documentation confirming completion of the equivalent of the Québec Secondary School Diploma (DES).

CIRCUS AND HIGH SCHOOL STUDIES PROGRAM

How many students does the NCS admit to its Circus and High School Studies program?

Spaces are limited. This program admits an average of 30 students per year, across all levels.

SUMMER CAMPS

How many young people does the NCS admit to its summer camps?

The number of places is limited. The NCS admits a maximum of 70 people for each camp (9-12 years old and 13-17 years old).

Is it possible to specialize in a particular discipline?

No. Instead, youth will have the opportunity to explore multiple circus disciplines and techniques at camp: floor acrobatics, trampoline, hand balancing, physical conditioning, flexibility, juggling, object manipulation, and aerial/acrobatic disciplines, among others

INITIATOR (AEC NRC.OV), INSTRUCTOR (AEC NRC.08 & AEE NRC.AF/AL), AND CIRCUS ARTS TRAINER (AEC NRC.09 & AEE NRC.FF/FE) PROGRAMS

Am I eligible for these courses even if I have limited knowledge in the field of circus arts?

Any knowledge and/or experience in the fields of circus arts, sports, gymnastics, dance, theater or any other relevant discipline will be taken into consideration when processing your application.

Do I need to master all circus moves and techniques to be eligible for these courses?

No. Throughout the program, you will be evaluated on your ability to fully understand basic circus movements and techniques in order to teach them correctly to the people/artists you will be training during your career as a trainer/instructor. You will not be evaluated on your own physical or technical skills. Of course, the ability to perform certain movements is an asset.

How much study time outside of class is required each week?

Approximately eight hours.

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