Kripalu School of Yoga

Yoga Teacher Training 500-Hour Certification

Can I take one of the modules even if I do not plan to complete the entire certification program?
Yes. The modules are open to anyone who has completed a 200-hour yoga teacher training through a Yoga Alliance-approved school. You still have to apply for the 500-hour Kripalu Yoga Teacher Training, even if you only wish to take one module.

Am I required to complete the Kripalu Yoga Teacher Training 500-hour if I am a certified 200-hour Kripalu Yoga teacher?
No. As a certified Kripalu Yoga 200-hour teacher you do have to complete 12 hours per year of continuing education, but you do not have to complete the 500-hour teacher training. However, we do recommend the 500-hour training for all 200-hour teachers as a way to take your teaching to the next level.

Is there any time limit to start or complete all four modules?
You may begin taking the modules any time after you complete your 200-hour certification. Most students complete the 500-hour modules within two years, however, you can take as many modules as you wish per year. In order to be certified as a 500-Hour Kripalu Yoga Teacher, you must complete all four modules.

Do I have to apply before I take my first program?
Yes. We require a 500-hour program application (available online) for students wishing to take any, or all, of our program modules.

Is there credit for training completed outside of Kripalu Center?
Students of the Kripalu Yoga Teacher Training 500-hour may have completed their 200-hour teacher certification at any Yoga Alliance-approved school. However, we do not transfer in credit or hours from any program towards the Kripalu Yoga Teacher Training 500-hour modules. Our curriculum is predefined and comprehensive and needs to be completed in its entirety for you to become a certified 500-hour Kripalu Yoga teacher.

How many hours are in each module?
Each module offers a minimum of 75 hours of study.

What is the schedule for the modules?
We will begin at 7:00 pm Friday evening and end by noon on the final Sunday. Required sadhana class is from 6:30 to 8:00 am each day, with teaching sessions from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm as scheduled. Required evening sessions will be scheduled throughout the week. See Sample Daily Schedule for more information.

Will I have an opportunity to participate in activities at Kripalu Center during the modules?
Due to the intensive nature of this program, it may be difficult to participate in other Kripalu evening events or receive Healing Arts services. Healing Arts sessions may be scheduled on your arrival or departure days. There will be some evenings off during which you can schedule healing arts or attend an evening concert or other event. Please wait to receive your program schedule at the beginning of your training before booking Healing Arts appointments.

Will there be a graduation that family and friends can attend?
No. The graduation ceremony is open only to the participants of the module within which you complete your certification requirements. Because the modules may be taken in any order, each module will have students who are graduating.

Is there anything else I need to know about the curriculum modules for the 500-hour training?
The modules may be taken in any order. As you progress through the modules, teachers who are further along in their own training will mentor those who are in their first or second module. The practicum sessions and involvement in helping develop your fellow yoga teachers will be an integral part of your development. All 300 hours of training are completed within the modules.

Still have questions?
For more information about Kripalu Yoga Teacher Training 500-Hour Certification, call 800-848-8702 or e-mail ksya@kripalu.org.