UPDATE
Changes to Audition Process in 2026
In 2026, we’re updating the application process to audition for NICA’s Bachelor of Circus Arts and Certificate IV in Circus Arts courses.
Prospective students will now be required to submit a 6-minute video application (see below for further details).
NICA’s Audition panel will review your submission within approximately two weeks of receiving it. If your application is successful, you will be sent a formal invitation to audition and the Audition Pack.
Applications are open 1 June - 14 August 2026.
The application process
Step 1
Submit a video application online between 1 June and 14 August
Step 2
Receive an invitation to audition & Audition Pack to complete
Step 3
Audition in-person or via video submission
Step 4
Receive an offer to study at NICA, accept and enrol!
video application
3 components
The audition process requires all applicants to submit a 6-minute video application: this consists of a 1-minute intro, a 2-minute physio screening, and a 3-minute sizzle reel. To support you through the application process, NICA has prepared an Audition Application Guide. We advise all applicants to review this document prior to intiating the application.
Introduction
1-minute
Introduce yourself to camera - we want to know more about you!
Physio Screening
2-minutes
Demonstrate your range of motion - follow the set skills guide
Sizzle Reel
3-minutes
Edit together a highlight reel showcasing your best skills & diversity of training
auditions
What to expect
Auditions for entry into NICA’s accredited courses in 2027 will be held at NICA in late September 2026. Video auditions can be submitted for those who cannot attend an in-person audition.
We want to:
- Know about your discipline/s: Circus, Gymnastics, Dance, Tricking, Parkour, Theatre
- See your specialty skills
- Measure your strength and flexibility
- See you perform
- Hear about your journey to date and your future ambitions
- Assess your physical condition and discuss pre-existing injuries and injury management
There is a one-off administration fee of $50.00. You will also need to invest some time into collecting medical information, thinking about your performance and writing a brief description for the audition panel, and preparing physically, based on the video audition guides and the NICA video application guide.
Key Dates
APPLY TO AUDITION
1 June — 14 August 2026
IN-PERSON AUDITION
28 September — 3 October
2-day commitment at NICA
VIDEO AUDITION
Due 9 September
LOCATION
National Institute of Circus Arts
39-59 Green St Prahran, VIC 3181
OR online (video audition)
COST
$50.00
SEMESTER START DATES
Orientation and course starts January 2027
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Practice using the Audition Skills Guide
P.s Don’t be alarmed if you can’t perform all of these skills yet, we are looking for your potential as a circus performer.
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Check out our FAQs here.
Still can’t find what you’re looking for? Contact us and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.