For individuals YAI registers yoga teachers from all traditions and styles and yoga schools whose teacher training programs (200 hour-500 hour or above training courses) meet basic identified standards.

The purpose of the Yoga teacher certification is to make sure that instructors have an excellent knowledge of all yogic aspects and safety issues.

The YAI Registry provides recognition of teachers’ knowledge, training and experience. Employers are confident hiring a yoga professional knowing that your training meets our standards. YAI’s certification is recognised by Yoga Organisations worldwide.

For schools YAI registers schools whose teacher training programs meet, at the very minimum, the standards set out by YAI on its website. YAI-certified schools are entitled to deliver YAI-certified teacher certification programs, and candidates completing these programs are automatically entitled to YAI certification.

YAI certificates for individuals and Yoga schools are issued by YAI, and carry signatures of both YAI functionaries and that of the Head of the certified Yoga School.

A YAI certified teacher or school may use the acronym YAI-CYT (YAI Certified Yoga Teacher or School) after their name and may use YAI’s logo in advertising and promotional materials. Details of their programs will also be available on YAI sites.

YAI certifies yoga schools that train individuals to become yoga teachers. A yoga school that wants to be certified may be may be from any tradition, style or country. The yoga schools should conduct teacher-training programs (200 hour-500 hour or above training courses) that meet basic standards identified by YAI.

Certification is granted after due process that may include interviews and assessment of capabilities of the instructors in the schools, and a one-time fee.

Standards have been set out for 200-hour level training and 500-hour level training programs. The standards specify training in techniques and practice of asanas, pranayamas, kriyas, other exercises of yoga, and meditation. The standards also suggest basic teaching methodology, and the minimum contact hours needed to become a yoga teacher.

YAI’s standards for training at higher levels (e.g., Grandmaster level) will be made available to schools, which fulfill basic criteria and have an established training record.

The YAI registry provides recognition of the capability of yoga teacher training courses in schools around the world. Employers are confident hiring a yoga professional knowing that your training meets our standards.

YAI certified schools are entitled to deliver YAI certified teacher certification programs, and candidates completing these programs are automatically entitled to YAI certification.

A YAI certified school may use the acronym YAI-CYS (YAI Certified Yoga School) after their name and may use our logo in advertising and promotional materials. Details of their programs will also be available on YAI sites.