Admissions & Registration FAQ

Must I have previous training or experience in circus arts to be admitted to NYCAA?: No. Anyone can begin training at NYCAA.
Where are classes held?: NYCAA's Midtown Manhattan facility is located on 49th Street between 2nd and 3rd Ave. Click here to view directions and maps.
What are the age requirements for participation in your courses?: Courses at NYCAA are taught from the perspective that all participants are mature enough to conduct themselves appropriately in an adult class. There are no formal age requirements, however, NYCAA reserves the right to screen participants based on overall maturity. As a guideline, mature participants 10 years old and above tend to be appropriate. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Do you teach classes for young children?: Parents of children too young for regular NYCAA courses should contact the main office to request private classes. Plans for a youth program are in consideration for 2008.

How many students are in each class?: NYCAA technique classes are designed to keep a student to teacher ratio of approximately 6 to 1.
I have never done this before, what course should I take?: Aerial Acrobatics 1, AcroBalance 1, Dynamic Acrobatics 1, and Juggling courses are either beginning courses or mixed level courses suitable for beginners. The Conditioning and Flexibility course is recommended for all levels.
How long is each class?: Most NYCAA classes are two hours long. Some specialty classes range from an hour and a half to two and a half hours long.
How long is a term, and how often do you offer them?: An NYCAA term is seven weeks long. Terms run continuously, year round. To view the current schedule, got to the Educational Programs section.
How do I register for a course ?

Registration is available through the NYCAA website or by calling the main office. To register for courses, go to the Educational Programs section.
How many classes a week can I take ?

NYCAA offers classes seven days per week, and students may take as many classes as their schedule permits. To view the current schedule, go to the Educational Programs section.
How many classes per week do most students take?

NYCAA believes that students learn most efficiently and safely in a structured course of study. The material in NYCAA courses is cumulative, and often requires knowledge of skills from previous courses. Visiting artists or students from other cities may be allowed to participate in an appropriate course, but only through previous arrangement with NYCAA. To discuss this option, please call the main office.
Can I try a class before I consider signing up for a course?: Yes. Throughout the term, NYCAA offers trial classes for those who are considering signing up for a course. Click here to view Trial Classes.
Do I have to be really strong?: No, though training in circus arts is a great way to get strong. NYCAA offers a Conditioning and Flexibility course designed to specifically target the muscle groups used in our technique courses. Students who take this notice a significant increase in their strength, endurance, and flexibility.
I have some relevant experience. What level course should I take?: NYCAA's system of teaching is unique and highly structured, therefore all incoming students are required to start in the introductory level course for their chosen track(s). If an incoming student believes that they are able to test out of a course and begin at a higher level, they should call the main office to schedule a placement test.