Program FAQs
What's the difference between the Professional Program and Summer Intensive? The Summer Intensive is a 3-week intensive training program held in July/August, offering 30+ hours of dance training per week. It serves as an introduction to our training philosophy and as a final audition for those wishing to join our full-year Professional Program (Grades 7-12), which runs from September to June and combines daily ballet training with full academic education.
What programs does Alberta Ballet School offer? Alberta Ballet School offers several professional ballet training programs: our Grades 7-12 Professional Program (which combines quality dance training with accredited academics), a Post-Graduate Program (for high school graduates seeking additional intensive training), the Alberta Ballet Trainee Program (a tuition-free opportunity to train with Alberta Ballet Company), and our popular 3-week Summer Intensive program.
How many hours per week do students train in the Professional Program? Training intensity varies by level:
- Grades 7-9: Approximately 20 hours per week of dance training
- Grades 10-12: Approximately 22 hours per week of dance training
- Post-Graduate Program: Approximately 35 hours per week
- Trainee Program: 35+ hours per week (full company schedule)
Do students receive a high school diploma? Yes. Students in our Grades 7-12 Professional Program earn an Alberta High School Diploma upon graduation. Our academic program is fully accredited and follows the Alberta Education curriculum, with certified teachers and small class sizes (approximately 15 students). Our school consistently ranks as a top performer on provincial exams, with a Fraser Institute rating of 9.1/10.
What is the Trainee Program? The Alberta Ballet Trainee Program is a quality, tuition-free post-graduate program for up to 10 dancers per year. Trainees train directly with Alberta Ballet Company, taking daily company class and rehearsing and performing in mainstage productions as part of the company's corps de ballet. Many trainees go on to receive contracts with Alberta Ballet or other professional companies worldwide.
Can I do just dance training without academics? Our Grades 7-12 program integrates both dance and academics, as we believe in developing well-rounded artists. However, our Post-Graduate Program (for those who have already completed high school) and Trainee Program focus exclusively on dance training.
What is the Post-Graduate Program? Our Post-Graduate Program is a 2-year intensive ballet training program designed for dancers who have completed high school but need additional preparation before entering the professional world. The program includes approximately 35 hours per week of training, covering ballet technique, pointe, pas de deux, contemporary, conditioning, repertoire, and career preparation. It serves as a bridge to professional dance careers.
How long is the Summer Intensive? Alberta Ballet School’s Summer Intensive is a 3-week program. We offer two sessions each summer (typically in July and August), allowing students to choose the session that best fits their schedule.
What level of dancer is the Summer Intensive for? Our Summer Intensive is designed for intermediate to advanced ballet students (Grades 5-12 and post-graduate) who are serious about their training. Participants should have several years of ballet experience and train regularly.
Is there a performance at the end of the Summer Intensive? The primary focus of our Summer Intensive is intensive training and evaluation for full-year program acceptance. While performance opportunities may be incorporated, the emphasis is on skill development, technique refinement, and assessment rather than a final showcase.
Can I attend both Summer Intensive sessions? Please contact our admissions team to inquire about attending multiple sessions. Availability may vary.
What should I bring to Summer Intensive? We provide a detailed packing list upon acceptance, but essentials include: multiple leotards and tights, ballet slippers and pointe shoes (if dancing en pointe), contemporary/jazz shoes if you have them, dance shorts or warm-ups, toiletries, casual clothing for evenings and weekends, and any personal items you'll need for three weeks away from home.
Financial FAQs
How much is tuition? Tuition varies by student category for 2026- 2027:
Grades 7-12 Program:
- Alberta Students: $17,400 CAD
- Canadian (non-Albertan) Students: $19,500 CAD
- International Students: $24,600 CAD
- Residence (all meals included): $18,500 CAD
Post-Graduate Program:
- Canadian & International Students: $17,200 CAD
- Residence with meals: $18,500 CAD
Alberta Ballet Trainee Program:
- Tuition: FREE (up to 10 students accepted annually)
Summer Intensive Program:
Please contact our admissions office for the most current tuition information.
Are there payment plans? Yes! Tuition can be paid in instalments rather than a lump sum. Our typical payment schedule includes fall and spring instalments. For international students, we offer phased payment schedules in compliance with Alberta consumer protection regulations. Contact our admissions team to arrange a payment plan that works for your family.
Do you offer scholarships or financial aid? Alberta Ballet School is committed to fostering talent regardless of financial circumstances. We offer a limited number of bursaries and scholarships based on merit and financial need. Families are encouraged to contact our admissions office to discuss financial assistance options. We also recommend exploring external scholarship opportunities for dance students.
What does tuition include? Tuition includes all professional dance training (ballet, pointe, contemporary, conditioning, repertoire, etc.) and full academic instruction for the school year (September–June). There are no additional registration or academic fees. Students are responsible for dance attire, shoes, and personal school supplies.
Are there additional fees beyond tuition? Dance attire (leotards, tights, shoes) and personal school supplies are not included in tuition. All dance training and academic instruction fees are covered by tuition—there are no hidden fees for instruction.
Admissions and Auditions FAQs
How do I apply to Alberta Ballet School? Application to our full-year Professional Program begins with an audition. You can audition through our in-person audition tours (held across Canada, USA, Australia, and New Zealand), via Zoom for live virtual auditions, or by submitting a video audition. After a successful audition, most students attend our Summer Intensive, which serves as the final evaluation for full-year program acceptance.
When are auditions held? Our audition tours typically run from fall through spring. Specific dates and locations are posted on our website. Zoom and video auditions are available year-round for those who cannot attend in-person auditions.
What should I wear to an audition? Wear form-fitting ballet attire in neutral colours (black, white, or subtle tones) that allow adjudicators to clearly see your lines and technique. Girls should wear a simple leotard, pink or flesh-toned tights, and hair in a neat bun. Boys should wear fitted dancewear (leotard or fitted shirt and tights or dance pants). Bring both ballet slippers and pointe shoes (if dancing en pointe). Avoid costumes, jewelry, or distracting colours.
Do I need to prepare a solo for the audition? No. Our auditions are conducted in a class format where you'll take a ballet class with other auditionees. The faculty will teach combinations on the spot, and you'll be evaluated on your technique, musicality, ability to pick up choreography quickly, and overall potential.
Is there an audition fee? Yes, there is a fee to audition. Specific fees are listed on our audition registration pages for each audition format (in-person, Zoom, or video submission).
When will I hear back after auditioning? Results are typically communicated within 2-4 weeks after your audition. If you're invited to attend Summer Intensive, you'll receive acceptance information and next steps. Final acceptance into the full-year program is usually determined during or shortly after the Summer Intensive.
What if I can't attend an in-person audition? We offer multiple audition options to ensure distance is not a barrier. You can participate in a live Zoom audition or submit a video audition. Both formats are given equal consideration in our evaluation process.
Can I audition directly for the full-year program without attending Summer Intensive? For most students, Summer Intensive serves as the final audition for the full-year program. However, early acceptance auditions are available, particularly for international students who need additional time for visa processing. Contact our admissions team to discuss your specific situation.
Training and Performance Questions
What styles of dance do you teach? Our curriculum includes classical ballet (drawing from Cecchetti, Vaganova, and French training methods), pointe work, variations, pas de deux, repertoire, contemporary dance, character dance, and body conditioning. This well-rounded approach prepares dancers for the versatility required in today's professional ballet world.
Do students get to perform? Yes! Students have multiple performance opportunities throughout the year, including school showcases and the exceptional opportunity to perform in Alberta Ballet Company productions. Advanced students and trainees may dance alongside professional company members in mainstage productions like The Nutcracker and other full-length ballets.
What kind of wellness support is provided? Student health and wellbeing are top priorities. We provide on-site physiotherapy, access to a sports psychologist, dance science-informed training (through our partnership with the University of Calgary), body conditioning classes, mindfulness training, and wellness talks with guest speakers. This comprehensive approach ensures dancers train safely and sustainably.
Who teaches at Alberta Ballet School? Our faculty comprises expert instructors, many of whom are former professional dancers with extensive performing experience. All academic teachers are certified by Alberta Education. Faculty provide personalized attention and mentorship, helping each student reach their full potential.
What is the student-to-teacher ratio? We maintain small class sizes to ensure personalized attention. Dance classes vary in size but are kept small enough for individualized coaching. Academic classes average approximately 15 students per certified teacher.
Academic Questions
What curriculum do you follow? We follow the Alberta Education curriculum for all academic subjects. Our certified teachers deliver the same high-quality education as public schools in Alberta, with the added benefit of much smaller class sizes (approximately 15 students per class) and a schedule optimized for dancers.
Will my child get a recognized diploma? Yes! Students graduate with an Alberta High School Diploma, which is internationally recognized and meets university entrance requirements in Canada and abroad. Our school consistently achieves excellent results on provincial exams, with a Fraser Institute rating of 9.1/10.
How do students balance academics and dance? Our daily schedule is carefully designed to integrate academics and dance training seamlessly. Academic classes typically occur in the morning, with dance training in the afternoon and evening. Small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and academic support (including tutoring when needed) ensure students excel both in the studio and the classroom. Time management and organizational skills are developed as part of our holistic approach.
What are class sizes? Academic classes average approximately 15 students, allowing for individualized attention and support from our certified teachers.
Can students go to university after graduating? Absolutely. Our graduates are well-prepared for university admission. Many pursue post-secondary education alongside or after professional dance careers. Our rigorous academic program ensures students have the qualifications and skills needed for university success.
Is there support for students who need extra academic help? Yes. Our small class sizes allow teachers to provide individualized attention. We also offer tutoring support and work closely with students to ensure they succeed academically while pursuing their dance training.
Can students who receive an Alberta Education high school diploma go to University/ College in other countries? Yes. In fact, many of our dancers who do not pursue professional careers go on to University and College in Canada and other countries.
Residence and Student Life FAQs
Is housing available? Yes! We operate a year-round residence at Mount Royal University's campus for out-of-town and international students. Housing is available for both our full-year Professional Program and Summer Intensive participants.
Where do students live? Students live in residence at Mount Royal University in Calgary. The residence is safe, fully supervised, and provides a supportive home-away-from-home environment with staff available 24/7.
What's included in residence fees? Residence fees include accommodation and all meals. The residence also provides planned social activities, weekend programming, and excursions to help students experience Calgary and build community.
Are meals provided? Yes, all meals are included in the residence fee. Meals are provided in campus dining facilities.
What do students do on weekends? Residence staff organize social activities, cultural excursions, and recreational opportunities. Students have explored Calgary's attractions, visited Banff National Park, attended cultural events like Calgary Stampede, and enjoyed various recreational activities. A calendar of planned activities is shared with students and families.
How is student safety ensured in residence? Our residence at Mount Royal University is supervised by dedicated residence staff who are available 24/7. We maintain safety protocols, curfews as appropriate, and regular communication with students and families. Medical support and wellness staff are also readily accessible.
Do students get to experience life in Calgary? Yes! Calgary is a safe, clean, and culturally vibrant city. Students participate in organized activities and excursions, experiencing everything from local arts and culture to outdoor adventures in the nearby Canadian Rockies. Our international student community helps create a welcoming, diverse environment.
Do you accept international students? Absolutely! Approximately 20% of our student body comes from outside Canada. We welcome dancers from around the world and provide comprehensive support throughout the application and transition process.
Do I need a student visa? Yes, international students attending our full-year programs require a Canadian Study Permit (student visa). Our admissions team assists with the application process, though we are not authorized immigration consultants. We'll guide you through the requirements and timeline.
What English language requirements are there? We do not require TOEFL or IELTS scores for admission. Instead, all non-English-speaking students complete an English language assessment upon acceptance. Based on the results, students receive personalized ELL (English Language Learner) instruction—several hours per week individually or in small groups. Our welcoming environment supports dancers at all English proficiency levels.
How do you support international students? We provide comprehensive support including: assistance with study permit applications, English language assessment and instruction, help arranging custodianship (for students under 18), health insurance guidance (students may be eligible for Alberta's provincial health coverage), cultural integration support, and pairing international students with Canadian roommates to encourage cultural exchange and help new students feel at home.
Do I need a custodian/guardian in Canada? Yes, Canadian law requires students under 18 to have a custodian (legal guardian) in Canada if their parents are not residing in the country. Our admissions team can help arrange a custodian if you don't have a Canadian contact.
What about health insurance? International students are required to have health insurance. Many international students are eligible for Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP), which provides free doctor and hospital visits, X-rays, and basic medical coverage. Our team will guide you through the enrollment process.
Contact Us
How can I learn more? What if I have other questions? We're here to help. Contact our Admissions team: admissions@albertaballet.com
- Phone: +1 403 245 2274 ext. 722
Can I visit the school? We welcome prospective students and families for visits. Please contact our admissions office to arrange a school tour or you can plan to attend one of our open house events. You can also see a video of our school here.
How do I stay updated on audition dates and school news? Visit our website regularly for the latest audition tour dates and school news. You can also follow us on social media (Facebook or Instagram) or sign up for our newsletter to receive updates directly.
I have a question that's not answered here. What should I do? You can contact our Admissions team at admissions@albertaballet.com or by phone. We're happy to answer any questions and provide guidance about joining Alberta Ballet School.