National Circus School
Montréal, Canada • Founded 1981
Updated Sep 2026
Overview
The National Circus School (Ecole nationale de cirque) is a specialized post-secondary institution in Montreal dedicated exclusively to training professional circus artists.
Founded in 1981 by Guy Caron as part of the wave of institutions that grew out of Cirque du Soleil's home province, it is one of the few schools in the world offering a full academic pathway in circus arts, from preparatory training through a three-year Diploma of Collegial Studies (DEC 561.D0) recognized by Quebec's ministere de l'Enseignement superieur. Students train across disciplines including acrobatics, aerial work, balancing, juggling, and clowning, choosing generalist or specialist profiles as they progress.
Beyond artist training, the school runs teacher-training programs (AEC) that prepare initiators, instructors, and trainers to teach circus arts safely to others, along with a circus-and-high-school-studies track and recreational classes and camps for youth. The school shares its Montreal campus, La TOHU district, with Cirque du Soleil and other circus organizations, giving students exposure to a working professional ecosystem.
Graduates have gone on to perform with major circus companies worldwide, reflecting the school's reputation as one of the leading circus arts training institutions internationally.
Location & Contact
Where National Circus School is located and how to contact its offices. Disability and accessibility information is usually held by a separate student services office worth contacting directly.
Programs Offered
National Circus School's current programme offering broken down by degree level. Curriculum revisions happen periodically; check the version year on each programme page if accreditation portability matters.
4 programmes on record. Compare these on the programs page All programs in Canada
Certificate 3 programmes
How to apply to National Circus School
A practical five-step guide to applying to National Circus School, from programme research through submission and follow-up.
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1
Identify the right programme
Start by exploring the programmes section on this page. National Circus School runs 4 active programmes across multiple degree levels. Narrow by qualification tier and read each programme description before shortlisting.
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2
Check entry requirements
Before applying to National Circus School, confirm you meet the academic, language, and document requirements for your chosen programme. International applicants should also check visa eligibility for Canada.
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3
Prepare your application documents
Standard documents: official transcripts, identity proof, language test results, personal statement, and references. Confirm exact requirements with National Circus School's admissions office before assembling, as expectations vary by programme.
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4
Submit via the institution
Lodge your application through the official website (ecolenationaledecirque.ca). Online forms are the standard route. Save your draft frequently and submit before the programme deadline.
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5
Get in touch with admissions
Verify your application has been received by the admissions team. Monitor the portal for status updates, interview invitations, or document requests, and respond within the stated deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about National Circus School
Common questions students ask about National Circus School — answers pulled straight from the institution's published profile.
When did National Circus School open?
National Circus School traces its founding to 1981 (approximately 45 years ago).
What city is National Circus School in?
National Circus School operates from Montréal, Canada.
What is National Circus School's control type?
National Circus School operates as a public institution.
How do I find National Circus School online?
National Circus School's official website is ecolenationaledecirque.ca.
Top-Ranked Universities in Canada
National rankings in Canada often weight different signals than international rankings. The leaders below typically top both, but the order can differ meaningfully.
Faculties at nearby universities
The universities below sit close to National Circus School geographically and may suit students who want to stay within the same region for study. Proximity affects commuting cost, family contact, and the ease of switching institutions if circumstances change.
Universities Compared with National Circus School
Beyond National Circus School, several other universities operate at a comparable level — by ranking, heritage, or scale. They are worth knowing as you build your shortlist, particularly if you want options at the same competitive tier.
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