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General

Entrance Examination

Circus and High School Studies Program:

Diploma of Collegial Studies in Circus Arts Program:

Diploma of National Circus School Studies Program:



General

What is the ideal profile of a circus artist?

A circus artist must demonstrate both a creative spirit and a great capacity to adapt to changing circumstances. This person should be multi-talented, open to the world and able to function autonomously, along with being determined and disciplined. Since the labour market is international in scope, it follows that the artist should enjoy travel and be ready to adapt to the mobile life involved in touring.



Must I have previous training or experience in circus arts to be admitted to the School?

It is not necessary to be experienced in a specific circus discipline. In fact, the School admits candidates who have practised at an advanced level martial arts or acrobatic sport disciplines such as artistic or rhythmic gymnastics, trampoline, diving, figure skating, etc.



What are my prospects for employment when my studies are completed?

The job market for circus artists is constantly growing as it becomes increasingly diversified. There is even a shortage of circus artists in certain countries, such as Canada, the United States and Australia. Each year, more than 90 percent of graduates find placement as circus artists during the first months of leaving the School.

After graduating from the School, a multitude of possibilities lie ahead. The young artist may join a company devoted to traditional or contemporary circus, explore newer forms of circus by forming partnerships, or create a collective with other artists. He or she may also opt for the European cabaret show or international festival circuits. There is also a market for private performances and special events bookings. Since many creators now integrate circus arts into other performing arts, a circus artist may also be called upon to take part in dance or theatre works.



Does the School offer a housing service for students coming from outside Montreal?

The School does not maintain dormitories to house its students. However, it does offer support in finding lodging. It will assist any student opting to find an apartment and/or roommate by providing links to local publications that can help with the search.

Entrance Examination

During the entrance examination, must I be able to execute all the required exercises?

The candidate must execute only the movements that he or she has mastered previously (see the entrance examination description under the Admission section).



What advice do you have for me as I prepare for the Entrance Examination?

To best way to prepare with the Entrance Examination is to first consult our website and read the examination description under the Admission section. The ideal next step is to consult a physical education or sports training professional who will be able to advise you according to your capabilities.

Circus and High School Studies Program:

How many students do you accept per year?

The program can accommodate up to 20 pupils. The number of places available varies according to the number of students completing their secondary studies.



Can I be accepted at any point during secondary education?

Students may be accepted at the beginning of or during their secondary studies. A pupil admitted from Secondary V will benefit from using this year to prepare for the Entrance Examination to the college-level program.



For a minor pupil accepted to the program residing outside Montreal, what advice does the School have regarding housing?

The best advice the School can offer is to find a family to board with. The School will assist in finding a host family for the minor pupil accepted into the program.



How many hours of study are required for the Circus and High School Studies program?

A normal week's schedule requires a minimum of 42 hours of attendance at the School per week, including 20.5 class hours (academic and theory subjects) and 21.5 hours minimum of training.

Diploma of Collegial Studies in Circus Arts Program:

How many pupils do you accept each year?

The number of students accepted varies, but the program is limited to approximately 20 per school year.



How many hours of study per week are required for the DEC program?

The DEC program comprises approximately 38 hours of study per week, distributed between theoretical and practical courses.



If I already have a DEC, will I get credit for the compulsory courses?

At present, courses in the subjects of French, English and Philosophy will be credited.

Is it possible to pursue my studies and also hold a part-time job?

Even though many courses are quite demanding physically and the school days tiring, some students are able to combine studies leading to a DEC with part-time employment.

Diploma of National Circus School Studies Program:

How many foreign students do you accept each year?

The number of foreign students admitted varies between 8 and 10 per year.



Is physical presence at the Entrance Examination preferable to sending a videotape?

Being physically present is preferable to sending a recorded audition. During the School Entrance Examination, evaluations of dance and acting (theatre) abilities allow the candidate to demonstrate talents that may not be apparent on tape.



Is there a way to obtain financial assistance in Canada for foreign students?

Governments and institutions in Canada do not offer financial assistance to foreign students. To obtain financial assistance, the accepted pupil must apply directly to the government of the country of origin.



If I want to take advantage of the Territorial Exemption, it is possible to forward a video after sending in the registration forms?

The complete file, including videocassette, must be mailed to us before the registration deadline. If the submission is found to be incomplete on deadline day, we unfortunately will not be able to accept your candidacy.



Does the School offer a student housing service?

The School does not maintain dormitories to house its students. However, it does offer support in finding lodging. It will assist any student opting to find an apartment and/or roommate by providing links to local publications that can help with the search.



Is it possible for a student coming from outside Canada to find a job during the school year?

Because of his or her status within the country, a foreign student accepted to our programs is not eligible to obtain a work permit, such document being necessary to work in Canada. Canada does not issue simultaneously a student visa and work permit to the same individual.




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