Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Yoga Alliance International – Canada

Registration

1. How do I get registered with Yoga Alliance International?

You can apply directly through our online application system.
You’ll be asked to select your credential level (RYT-200, RYT-300, RYT-500) and submit your training evidence and teaching video. Full instructions are available under the Apply / Designations section of the website.

2. What are the requirements for registration?

We use a competency-based assessment, not a school-based approval model.
You can qualify if you:

  • Completed a yoga teacher training program (online, hybrid, or in-person), OR

  • Have equivalent training and experience through our grandfathered pathway.

We accept training from any lineage or organization. You are assessed entirely on skill, not the brand of your school.

3. Do I need to have completed my training with a YAI-certified school?

No.
We credential teachers from any school or organization.
Our assessment focuses on your competence, not your school.

4. Can online graduates apply?

Yes.
Online, hybrid, and in-person graduates are treated equally under our competency model.

5. How long does the registration process take?

Most applications are reviewed within 7–14 days, depending on volume.

Assessment Process

6. How does the assessment work?

You submit:

  1. Your application

  2. Training evidence

  3. A 15-minute teaching video

Our assessors evaluate your safety, sequencing, cueing, communication, and understanding of core yoga principles.
Full details are on the How Assessment Works page.

7. What if I don’t pass on the first try?

You may re-submit your video or documents at no additional cost.
Our goal is fairness and clarity, not perfection.

8. Do you evaluate teaching style or lineage?

No.
Any style is accepted. We only assess teaching competence and safety.

Upgrading & Credentials

9. How do I upgrade my credential level?

Email your new certificates or training records.
There is no fee to upgrade your designation.

10. How soon after upgrading will my credential change?

Upgrades are usually processed within 3–5 business days.

11. Will I receive a new certificate after upgrading?

Yes.
A new digital certificate with your updated level will be issued.

Fees

12. What payments do you accept?

We accept:

  • Interac e-transfer

  • Eventbrite payments (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)

13. Are any of the fees refundable?

All fees are non-refundable, as assessments require time and administrative review.

14. Are there fees for upgrades or resubmissions?

No.
Upgrades and re-submissions are included in your registration.

Renewals

15. How do I renew my credential?

You’ll receive an invoice one month before your renewal date.
You have a 30-day grace period after the renewal date to complete payment.

16. What happens if I miss my renewal date?

Your profile will be temporarily removed from our registry until your renewal is complete.

17. Is there a penalty for renewing late?

No penalties — but your listing will not appear in the registry until renewed.

Complaints & Professional Conduct

18. What types of complaints do you accept?

We accept complaints involving breaches of our Code of Conduct, including safety concerns, unethical behaviour, or professional misconduct by Registered Yoga Teachers or Schools.

19. Does it cost anything to file a complaint?

No.
There is no fee to file a complaint.
All complaints are handled with due process, transparency, and communication with all parties involved.

20. Should I contact other authorities if necessary?

Yes.
If the situation involves safety, legal issues, or health concerns, we encourage contacting:

  • Law enforcement

  • Legal counsel

  • Healthcare professionals

Our complaint system is for professional conduct, not emergencies.