FAQ – Junior Ballet Programme

What is the Junior Ballet programme?

The Junior Ballet is a full-time professional transition programme designed for dancers preparing to enter international classical and contemporary companies. It functions daily as a company, with intensive training, rehearsals, repertoire, and regular performances.

What ages are accepted?

The programme welcomes dancers:

• From 15 to 17 years old in the first cycle

• Up to a maximum of 23 years old in the advanced and final cycles

Is the Junior Ballet a school or a company?

It is neither a traditional school nor a professional company. It is a transition structure, designed to prepare dancers for professional engagement under company-level conditions.

How selective is the programme?

The selection process is rigorous and honest. Each season, following international auditions, only a limited number of dancers are accepted to ensure individual follow-up and a high artistic standard.

How often do dancers perform on stage?

Dancers perform every two months, allowing them to gain regular stage experience and confront demanding international repertoire.

Does the programme help with auditions for companies?

Yes. The programme works in close collaboration with international choreographers and company directors. Dancers are actively accompanied in their preparation for auditions and professional integration.

What is the Diploma in Choreographic Studies?

The Diploma in Choreographic Studies is an official diploma recognised by the Ministry of Culture, organised in collaboration with the Conservatory of Pau.
It follows an official academic framework over a minimum period of two years and is accessible from 15 to 23 years old.

Is access to the Diploma automatic if I join the Junior Ballet?

No. Access to the Diploma is subject to a separate and independent audition, organised at the beginning of each season.
Admission to the Junior Ballet does not automatically grant access to the Diploma.

Why is the Diploma important?

The Diploma provides official academic recognition and is a strong asset for international auditions, where validated training pathways and institutional frameworks are increasingly valued.

What is the Bachelor Access Programme?

The Bachelor Access Programme is a two-year academic pathway linked to the professional programme.
It is accessible to dancers enrolled in the Junior Ballet and requires registration and examination fees over the two years.

Are scholarships available?

Yes. A limited number of scholarships are awarded each season based on family income, following the reference scale used by CROUS.
Scholarships are selective and not automatic.

What are the living costs in Pau?

The programme is based in Pau, a city offering affordable living conditions.
With housing assistance from CAF, average monthly living costs are approximately 250 €.

Do international students receive visa support?

Yes. International students benefit from administrative assistance for visa procedures.
This support is subject to a 200 € administrative fee and does not include consular visa fees.

Official Tuition Fees 

Tuition Fees & Financial Framework

Academic Year: September – July

The Junior Ballet is a full-time professional programme operating under company-level conditions. Tuition fees have been carefully structured to remain accessible while reflecting the intensity, performance rhythm, and professional framework of the programme.

Tuition Fees

• Full Academic Year (September–July): 7,900 €
  This fee includes daily professional training, rehearsals, performances, and all workshops organised throughout the season.

• Six-Month Programme: 5,800 €
  Designed for advanced dancers joining the programme for a limited and intensive period.

Academic Programmes (External Fees)

• Diploma in Choreographic Studies (recognised by the Ministry of Culture): + 400 €
  Minimum duration of two academic years. Access subject to a separate audition.

• Bachelor Access Programme: approximately 400 € per year, over two years
  Fees correspond to examination and administrative costs and may vary according to family income.

Administrative Fees

• Registration and administrative fees: 500 € per season

• Visa administrative support (international students only): 200 €

Scholarships & Support

A limited number of scholarships are available each season, allocated according to family income and artistic evaluation. These scholarships represent a targeted support for dancers identified for their commitment and professional potential.