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Certification · Teacher Training

Yoga Alliance Certifications Explained: RYS, RPYS, RCYS, YACEP

By Nisha Ahya · 6 min read

Yoga Alliance credentials can be confusing — here is a general explanation of what each one means.

RYS (Registered Yoga School)

A school authorised to deliver a foundational teacher training, typically leading to RYT 200 or RYT 500 registration for graduates.

RPYS / RPYT (Prenatal)

RPYS is a school registered to teach prenatal yoga teacher training; graduates can register individually as RPYT.

RCYS / RCYT (Children's)

RCYS is a school registered for children's yoga teacher training; graduates register individually as RCYT.

YACEP (Continuing Education)

Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Provider status covers specialised courses, such as Hormone Yoga Therapy, that build on an existing foundational certification.

Why This Matters When Choosing a School

Always verify a school's current Yoga Alliance designations directly on yogaalliance.org before enrolling — marketing claims should always match official registration status.

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