Apply Now: Bachelor of Circus Arts at NICA

Dream of studying in Australia?

Apply now to Audition for the Bachelor of Circus Arts at the National Institute of Circus Arts, Melbourne, Australia.

Applications to Audition close 14 August 2026.⁠


ABOUT THE COURSE

NICA is an internationally renowned Centre of Excellence, delivering world-class tertiary-level circus arts education, training, and performance out of its state-of-the-art facilities in Melbourne, Australia.

The Bachelor of Circus Arts is a three-year full-time course that combines immersive and experiential practice-based studies and applied theory in contemporary circus arts, large-scale ensemble and showcase performance experiences, and industry learning opportunities. It is the highest level of accredited circus training in Australia, accredited by the Australian College of the Arts (Collarts).

Major studies:

- Circus arts specialisations in two apparatus or disciplines
- Performance movement studies
- Foundation studies
- Ensemble performances and performance projects
- Technical aspects of circus production
- Anatomy and biomechanics
- History and culture of circus arts
- Arts Management and business studies
- The contemporary circus industry
- Circus Specialisation Showcase

Course code: BACA | CRICOS Course Code: 117405G

NICA’s innovative curriculum is delivered by a supportive and highly experienced faculty of professional artists, educational leaders, and circus practitioners. Students are supported by an onsite medical team, including physiotherapists and a sports psychologist.

Since 2001, NICA graduates have gained respect worldwide for their skills, discipline, creativity, and ingenuity.

NICA alumni have worked across the globe with companies like Cirque du Soleil, Circa, Circus Oz, Cavalia, Dragone, Carnival Australia, Gravity & Other Myths, NOFIT State Circus and more. Many have gone on to establish their own successful circus and physical theatre companies, produce their own shows, and tour the worlds festival circuit.

NICA also offers a Certificate IV in Circus Arts (currently for domestic students only). It is one-year of study (27 hours per week for approximately 36 weeks) that combines in-person training sessions with NICA’s world-class teaching faculty, with integrated online learning components. In 2027, the course will comprise of 9 core units in foundational circus studies, and a set of 4 elective units that complete one of three Specialisation Streams: Specialty Artist, Circus Coach, and Show Technical Support. The course is designed to equip emerging artists with the broad skillset to work in the industry at entry-level, or to audition for the Bachelor program.

Course Code: 11361NAT


Entry Requirements:

Entrance into NICA’s higher ed programs is competitive, attracting applicants nationally and internationally each year.

Applicants are required to partake in an Audition, interview, and physiotherapy assessment.
Pre-requisites: Year 12 or equivalent studies. Contact our admissions team to discuss international requirements [email protected]

Applicants should have a background in performing arts, physical theatre, youth circus, dance, acrobatic sports, gymnastics, or similar discipline.

Auditions for entry into NICA’s accredited courses in 2027 will be held at NICA between 28 September - 3 October 2026. Video auditions can be submitted for those who cannot attend an in-person audition, and are due on 9 September 2026.

For more information, visit: www.nica.com.au/ed