Preparatory training in circus arts
The ENACR offers a preparatory training for higher schools in circus arts
This training is aimed at young people aged 17 to 23 who wish to prepare for careers in circus. It is now part of the Diploma of Scientific and Technical University Studies (DEUST) « Animation and Management of physical, sports or cultural activities in the circus arts », a national university diploma at the Bac +2 level, awarded by the UFR SESS-STAPS of the University Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), in partnership with the ENACR.
2026 Selection ProcedureTraining objectives
The training is based on a common core in circus techniques, allowing for a high level of consolidation in several fundamental disciplines while pursuing a chosen specialization. The first year offers the opportunity to explore and confirm this choice, thanks to the support of the educational team.
Throughout the curriculum, reference professors guide the students and impart their know-how in order to develop both technical and artistic skills, which are essential for integrating into higher education schools.
1st year
Artistic education
General teachings
Vocational training
Objectives of the first year
Openness to the diversity of professional practices: social circus, stage management, collective creation, individual creation
The informed choice of a specialty (all can be considered except work with animals, magic, and clowns)
The acquisition of artistic fundamentals: dance, singing, theatrical play
The acquisition of technical fundamentals: trampoline, acrobatics, balance, physical preparation
2nd year
Artistic education
General teachings
Vocational teachings
Second year objectives
The acquisition of technical fundamentals: trampoline, acrobatics, balance, physical preparation
The acquisition of artistic fundamentals: dance, singing, theatrical play
The informed choice of a specialty (all can be considered except work with animals, magic, and clowns)
Openness to the diversity of professional practices: social circus, stage management, collective creation, individual creation
Training
Public
The training is aimed at young people aged 17 to 23 who wish to become circus artists. Admission is through a competition.
Rate
The annual cost of the training is €600, including all registration, membership, and educational fees. In addition to this amount, there are university registration fees: €178 for university fees and €105 for CVEC (CROUS), totaling €283 (prices observed last year, subject to change). Students (outside the European Union) benefit from an exemption from differentiated fees and thus pay the same registration fees as European students. The payment of €600 can be made in three installments, provided that the total is paid before the end of December. The first payment must be made before the start of September.
Duration of the training
From September to mid-July. The calendar, inspired by the school rhythm of the Parisian zone, is specified at the beginning of the year.
How to apply?
Access to training is through a competitive examination.
Prerequisite
To be between 17 and 23 years old
To be physically fit for intensive circus practice
The contest
The entrance competition consists of two selection stages:
the application file
the selection internship
The competition arrangements can be adapted to the potential disabilities of the candidates. Please contact Fabienne Tissier or Bertrand Bossard, disability referents.
Dates
Posting of the application form on January 30, 2026
Deadline for application submissions on March 8, 2026 at 11:59 PM
Announcement of the selected files on April 17, 2026
Selection stage at ENACR from May 18 to May 22, 2026
Announcement of those admitted on the last day of the selection stage
To apply
The selection internship
For the selected candidates at the end of the pre-selection phase, a one-week selection internship will be organized.
The internship will start on Monday, May 18 at 8:30 AM and end on Friday, May 22 at 6 PM and will take place at ENACR.
Selected candidates will be responsible for their accommodation and will need to organize their meals.
In order to participate in the internship, mandatory administrative documents will be required: medical certificate, insurance certificate, mutual insurance certificate, etc.
All courses provided during this week are mandatory.
During this week, candidates will need to:
Participate in group workshops: circus techniques, basics, physical training, dance, play
Conduct a one-on-one interview with management and the educational management
Present a 3-minute performance
A diploma issued by
