Global Board of Yoga Teacher's Accreditation

Re-establishing Authentic Yogic Philosophy

Accreditation Standards for Yoga Teachers

The standards are created for those Yoga Training providers and Yoga Teachers who have made it their mission to serve humanity, to help society, and who seek to expand individual consciousness as a means of spiritual evolution, to address global peace and ecological conservation.

Click to download the PDF of the Yoga standards set by the Board members!

Click to download the PDF of the Yoga Accreditation Process Document!

Click to Apply for the Accreditation by submitting the Application form!

Click to Apply for the Teacher’s Registration by submitting the Application form!

The Power of Authentic Yogic Philosophy

At United Consciousness, we believe that the practice of yoga goes beyond just physical exercise. We are committed to re-establishing the authentic and classical format of yoga, as it was originally intended, in order to bring about a more integrated development of all yoga sadhaks. Our core philosophy is based on the following principles:

Our Objectives

Honoring the ancient wisdom of yoga and making it accessible to all.
Nurturing a sense of community among yoga practitioners worldwide.
Integrating mind, body, and spirit through the practice of yoga
Emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and purposeful living in our daily lives.

Our Uniqueness

1. United Consciousness’s Certificate is a Seal of Quality.
2. Seven-dimensional model of Yoga Teacher’s accreditation.
3. Connecting to the Worldwide Grid
4. Based on classical Yoga Scriptures.
5. Spiritual rather than religious or gymnastic.
6. Emphasis on Yamas and Niyamas.
7. Satvik (No alcohol /Smoking /Meat) in Yoga Institutions.
8. Simple and Accessible certification process.
9. Professional.
10. Affordable.

Core Principal Of GBYTA

Authenticity Of Yoga

By re-establishing yoga in its original and classical format, the Global Board of Yoga Standards Accreditation (GBYS) ensures that individuals receive authentic and genuine yogic teachings, leading to a deeper understanding of the profound yogic philosophy.

Comprehensive Learning

The GBYS is the most comprehensive yoga accreditation board with members from all six continents of the world. Individuals can benefit from a diverse range of perspectives and insights, leading to a more well-rounded and holistic learning experience.

Integrated Development

The authentic and comprehensive teachings provided by GBYS ensure the integrated development of all yoga sadhaks, helping individuals to cultivate physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. This can lead to a greater sense of inner peace, clarity, and purpose in life.

The Importance of Authentic Yogic Philosophy

The current state of yoga has diminished its original purpose, but by returning to its classical format, yoga can provide immense benefits for individuals and society.

The Modern Interpretation

Classical Practice Of Yoga

Authentic Format Of Practicing Yoga

The Modern Interpretation

Classical Practice Of Yoga

Authentic Format Of Practicing Yoga

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

What makes your accreditation different from other existing accreditation bodies?

UCGBYTA is a philosophy- and ethics-driven global accreditation body grounded in classical Indian yoga traditions, not just contact hours or asana performance. It evaluates yoga schools across seven holistic standards (history, spirituality, psychology, ethics, physiology, science, pedagogy), emphasizing transformation, moksha, dharma, and universal well-being. The United Consciousness Global Board of Yoga Teacher’s Accreditation (UCGBYTA) offers a truly unique and elevated accreditation model that stands apart from Yoga Alliance and similar bodies in the following ways:

Seal of Quality: Accreditation from United Consciousness is not just a registration—it’s a Certificate of Authenticity and Excellence, a Seal of Quality that signifies high ethical and spiritual standards.

Seven-Dimensional Evaluation Model: Unlike systems focused mainly on hours and posture training, UCGBYTA applies a seven-dimensional framework including Yoga philosophy, psychology, ethics, spirituality, pedagogy, science, and authentic practice—ensuring a holistic assessment.

Based on Classical Yoga Scriptures: The curriculum and evaluation are firmly rooted in authentic Indian yogic texts such as the Bhagavad Gītā, Patañjali Yogasūtra, Upaniṣads, and Haṭhayogapradīpikā, restoring the traditional essence of yoga.

Spiritual, Not Gymnastic: The focus is on yoga as a spiritual path of transformation and liberation (moksha)—not a fitness or gymnastics program.
Ethics-Centered – Yamas and Niyamas: A strong emphasis is placed on yogic ethics, including non-violence, truthfulness, contentment, and self-discipline, which are often overlooked in commercial training programs.

Satvik Institutional Standards: Only those institutions that maintain a Satvik environment—no alcohol, smoking, or meat—are considered eligible, preserving the sanctity of the yogic lifestyle.

Global Network: The program connects your institution to a Worldwide Grid of authentic yoga practitioners, schools, and mentors across 20+ countries and five continents.

Simple, Accessible, and Affordable: The entire process is online, transparent, and designed to be easy to navigate, with reasonable fees making it accessible to genuine yoga schools around the world.

Professional & Inclusive: Despite its spiritual core, the certification adheres to professional standards of evaluation, teaching methodology, and documentation, while respecting diverse traditions and geographies. In essence, United Consciousness offers a deeper, more authentic, and globally connected accreditation for those committed to teaching yoga as a path of conscious evolution—not just a physical exercise routine.

Is this a recognized global accreditation? Will it help our students find teaching opportunities internationally?

Yes. The UCGBYTA has a global advisory board with experts from all five continents and is supported by reputable institutions such as Yoga Vidya (Germany), European Yoga Federation, Siddhashram (Turkey), The World Community of I.C. & T.D. (Italy), Yoga Lam (Russia), Project Self (USA), Sun Yoga (Croatia) and others. It helps students and teachers gain recognition across the international spiritual and yogic ecosystem.

Who designed the accreditation framework — are there known names involved?

The GBYTA Advisory Board Members who contributed to shaping this holistic and scripture-rooted framework include:

Swami Suryananda Saraswati – President, European Yoga Federation, Italy
Sukadev Volker Bretz – Founder, Yoga Vidya, Germany
Acharya Vivek Gupta – Vedanta Teacher & Former Head, Chinmaya International Foundation, Canada
Karine Shellshear – Ex-President, Australasian Association of Yoga Therapists, Australia
Siddviho Çabuk – Founder, Siddhashram, Turkey
Andrey Lobanov – Founder, Yoga LAM & Institute of Classical Yoga, Russia
Emy Blesio – Spiritual Advisor & Founder, World Community of Indian Culture and Traditional Disciplines, Italy
Rajesh Rabindranath – Director, Project Self, USA
Dr. Vikrant Singh Tomar – Convener, United Consciousness & Yoga Accreditation Standards Designer, India

Is this a certification or a registration, like accreditation bodies?

It is a comprehensive accreditation and certification process, not just a registration. Accredited programs are awarded a Seal of Quality based on strict evaluation.

Can our school retain our lineage and still be eligible?

Yes. UCGBYTA values diversity of yoga traditions and lineages as long as they uphold ethical, philosophical, and spiritual integrity aligned with classical principles.

Do you evaluate schools based on philosophy and ethics, or just syllabus and hours?

Yes, the evaluation is based on seven holistic standards (history, spirituality, psychology, ethics, physiology, science, pedagogy), including ethics (Yama-Niyama), philosophy (Bhagavad Gītā, Patañjali), and authenticity of transmission—not just hours or content coverage.

How do you ensure authenticity without being rigid or prescriptive?

While standards are high, there’s flexibility in curriculum, pedagogy, and references. Lineages and cultural contexts are respected as long as they meet core accreditation standards.

Logistics and Process

1. What’s the process for applying and getting accredited?

Three-stage process:

1. Application submission ($50)
2. Audit by global board ($100)
3. Final accreditation ($150)

All stages are conducted online and typically completed in 1.5 months for schools, 2.5 months for continental bodies.

2. Is there a cost involved? What does it include?

Yes. For yoga institutions:

• Application: $50
• Audit: $100
• Accreditation Certificate: $150
Total: $300

Annual Renewal Fee: $100
Re-accreditation after 5 years: $200
Yoga teacher registration (optional): $20/year

3. How long does the evaluation process take?

About 6 weeks (1.5 months) for institutional accreditation, and up to 2.5 months for larger or continental institutions.

4. Do you conduct in-person visits or only document reviews?

Only online audits and documentation reviews are conducted. In exceptional cases if needed in person visit may be conducted.

5. Do we need to reapply annually or is it a one-time process with periodic updates?

Accreditation is valid for 5 years.
Annual fee of just $100 ensures continuity. Re-accreditation is required after 5 years.

6. Can we be accredited by both United Consciousness and other accreditation bodies?

Yes. Dual accreditation is allowed.

Evaluation Criteria and Standards

1. What are your key criteria for evaluating a yoga school or teacher training program?

United Consciousness evaluates yoga schools and teacher training programs based on a comprehensive Seven-Dimensional Accreditation Model.
These standards total 640 hours of training and form the backbone of United Consciousness’s global accreditation framework, ensuring depth, rigor, and authenticity in yoga education.

Application Form: To be filled online through the official UGBYTA website.
Applicant’s Photograph: Recent passport-size photo in digital format (JPEG/PNG).
Curriculum & Examination Methodology: Full syllabus / curriculum followed by the institution.
Explanation of examination methods: Uploaded PDF Or Audio explanation
Sample of examination paper / assessment format: Send your examination sample questions
Teaching Qualification Certificate: Certificate showing formal qualification of the lead trainers/faculty.
Experience Document (If Any): Documents showing previous training experience (e.g., appointment letters, references, work summaries).
Prospectus or Webpages: Latest institutional prospectus describing programs, faculty, methodology, etc.
Legal Registration Documents (if applicable): Registration Certificate
Incorporation Certificate (if applicable)
Compliance with your country’s (if applicable): Any document showing compliance with your country’s requirement for a training body.

2. How do you assess alignment with classical texts?

Standards require familiarity with texts like the Bhagavad Gītā, Patañjali Yogasūtra, Upaniṣads, and others. However, culturally appropriate translations and lineages are accepted.

3. Do you allow modern interpretations or only stick to traditional texts?

While grounded in tradition, modern pedagogical tools and interpretations are welcome—as long as they don’t compromise yogic integrity.

4. How do you handle schools with mixed lineages or contemporary styles?

Mixed or contemporary styles are welcome, provided they align with the seven standards and uphold authenticity, ethics, and teacher competence.

6. What is the minimum program duration and training hour requirement?

Minimum total duration: 2 years
Minimum total hours: 640 hours

455 hours allocated to fixed standards
155 hours flexible
450 hours must be in-person
190 hours can be online/self-study
32 hours of additional practice teaching are also required

7. Are there additional expectations beyond course hours?

Yes:

Daily personal yoga practice (~1 hour/day)
Self-study (~1–3 hours/week)
Additional unsupervised teaching practice: 32 hours

8. What is the assessment process like?

Schools must assess:

Written/oral knowledge for Standards 1–4
Practical teaching competency for Standard 7
Final certificate issuance is the school’s responsibility after verifying all components.

Community and Collaboration

1. What are your key criteria for evaluating a yoga school or teacher training program?

Application Form: To be filled online through the official UGBYTA website.
Applicant’s Photograph: Recent passport-size photo in digital format (JPEG/PNG).
Curriculum & Examination Methodology: Full syllabus / curriculum followed by the institution.
Explanation of examination methods: Uploaded PDF Or Audio explanation
Sample of examination paper / assessment format: Send your examination sample questions
Teaching Qualification Certificate: Certificate showing formal qualification of the lead trainers/faculty.
Experience Document (If Any): Documents showing previous training experience (e.g., appointment letters, references, work summaries).
Prospectus or Webpages: Latest institutional prospectus describing programs, faculty, methodology, etc.
Legal Registration Documents (if applicable): Registration Certificate
Incorporation Certificate (if applicable)
Compliance with your country’s (if applicable): Any document showing compliance with your country’s requirement for a training body.

2. How do you assess alignment with classical texts?

Standards require familiarity with texts like the Bhagavad Gītā, Patañjali Yogasūtra, Upaniṣads, and others. However, culturally appropriate translations and lineages are accepted.

3. Do you allow modern interpretations or only stick to traditional texts?

While grounded in tradition, modern pedagogical tools and interpretations are welcome—as long as they don’t compromise yogic integrity.

4. How do you handle schools with mixed lineages or contemporary styles?

Mixed or contemporary styles are welcome, provided they align with the seven standards and uphold authenticity, ethics, and teacher competence.

6. What is the minimum program duration and training hour requirement?

Minimum total duration: 2 years
Minimum total hours: 640 hours

455 hours allocated to fixed standards
155 hours flexible
450 hours must be in-person
190 hours can be online/self-study
32 hours of additional practice teaching are also required

7. Are there additional expectations beyond course hours?

Yes:

Daily personal yoga practice (~1 hour/day)
Self-study (~1–3 hours/week)
Additional unsupervised teaching practice: 32 hours

8. What is the assessment process like?

Schools must assess:

Written/oral knowledge for Standards 1–4
Practical teaching competency for Standard 7
Final certificate issuance is the school’s responsibility after verifying all components.

Impact on Teachers and Students

1. Will this accreditation help students become more employable or respected?

Yes, especially in philosophically aligned institutions, ashrams, and international spiritual communities that value authenticity.

2. Can students register as teachers under this system (like RYT)?

Yes, if trained under an UCGBYTA accredited school, they may register as UC-certified yoga teachers at $20/year.

3. Do you offer continuing education or guidance for teachers?

While no formal CE hours are mandated, UC hosts global sessions, online conclaves, and educational events for continuous growth.

4. How do you support students after graduation?

By offering:

• Global visibility
• Teacher listings on UC website
• Opportunities for collaboration, mentoring, and teaching.

Philosophy and Vision

1. What does “authentic yoga” mean to United Consciousness?

Yoga is a path of inner evolution, moksha, and service—not just fitness. Authentic yoga is based on scriptural wisdom, spiritual development, ethical action, and self-realization.

2. How do you balance ancient wisdom with modern needs?

By maintaining classical foundations and allowing modern pedagogical tools and inclusive philosophies.

3. Is the model inclusive across geographies and traditions?

Yes. The global board includes members from India, USA, Europe, Turkey, Russia, Australia, and more, representing diverse yogic heritages.

4. Is your goal global transformation or niche recognition?

The vision is to foster a global awakening—not just limited certification. Yoga is a tool for ecological balance, global peace, and collective evolution.

Honoring Excellence: Yogacharya Jadranko Miklec Receives PM Yoga Award

Celebrating 50+ years of dedication to spreading Yoga, Ayurveda, and Vedic wisdom across Europe and beyond.

GBYTA Advisory Board Members

Swami Suryananda Saraswati

President, EYF
Italy 🇮🇹

Mahamandaleshwar Swami Suryananda Saraswati Yogacharya Amadio Bianchi Maharaj is an esteemed figure in the world of yoga and Ayurveda. He is the founder of the World Yoga and Ayurveda Community and President of the World Movement for Yoga and Ayurveda. He has also served as the President of the European Yoga Federation and the Vice President of the International Yog Confederation. As a founding member of the European Ayurveda Association and an advisor to United Consciousness Global, he has worked to promote these practices around the world. He has been recognized for his contributions, receiving the title of Ambassador of Yoga and Ayurveda at an international conference in Dubai. With a presence in many countries and a wealth of knowledge, he is a frequent speaker at major congresses and the author of numerous books on yoga and Ayurveda.

Sukadev Volker Bretz

President, Yoga Vidya
Germany 🇩🇪

Sukadev Bretz is a spiritual teacher and founder of Yoga Vidya, one of the leading Yoga movements in Europe, with 4 major Ashrams, nearly 100 Yoga centres and 20,000 yoga teachers. He is the author of 10 books and is known for motivating Yoga aspirants to practice intensely, see a higher meaning in daily experiences, and bring more energy and heart into everyday life. Sukadev also spreads Yoga via the internet in Yoga videos and podcasts in English and German. He had spiritual experiences from childhood and started practicing meditation as a teenager.

Acharya Vivek Gupta

Deputy Director, Chinmay Yoga Kendra
Canada 🇨🇦

Shri Vivek Gupta is a contemporary spiritual teacher who offers a unique blend of formal monastic training and life experience to inspire people of all ages to pursue purposeful, independent lives. He shares his insights through various mediums, including weekly courses, workshops, international retreats, a podcast, a YouTube channel, and social media. He has authored two books and offers daily Meaningful Mornings sessions. Vivekji serves as the spiritual guide of Chinmaya Mission Niagara Falls and has started centers in London and Cleveland and supported centers in Albany and Pittsburgh.

Karine Shelleshear

Former President, AAYT
Australia 🇦🇺

Karine is an advocate for social justice and has a background in social research, planning, policy, and community development. She has a Masters of Philosophy in Housing and has played a leadership role in social housing development for disadvantaged communities. Karine has been a teacher in higher education and was the President of the Australasian Association of Yoga Therapy (AAYT) between 2015-2020. She has been practicing and teaching Yoga for many decades and is a qualified Yoga Therapist. Karine’s teaching and therapy focus on synchronised breath-focussed yoga in the tradition of Krishnamacharya, with attention on addressing functionality and alignment for healing and wellbeing.

Siddviho Çabuk

President, Siddashram Yoga Center
Türkiye 🇹🇷

Master Yogibaba Adnan Ananda Siddviho Çabuk, also known as the Mesopotamian Yogi, was born in Mardin, Turkey and was influenced by the cultural richness of his homeland. He chose yoga as his path of existence and dedicated himself to serving humanity through yoga. He founded the Siddashram Yoga Center in Istanbul in 1997 and the nonprofit Yoga Foundation in Turkey in 2012. He owns an authentic ashram in Taurus Mountains of Alanya, Antalya, where he teaches Classical Spiritual Yoga with his wife and other masters. He has an autobiography called Without Disturbing the Silence: The Life Adventure of a Mesopotamian Yogi, published in 2008.

Andrey Lobanov

President, Yoga Lam
Russia 🇷🇺

Andrey Lobanov is a yoga master with a unique path and experience. He founded the first official yoga school in USSR and Russia in 1983, and in 1989, he established the first yoga teacher training school in Russia. He worked out the yogatherapy educational courses that were included in medical higher education institutions. Andrey Lobanov’s vast experience in yoga, ancient and modern medicine led him to create a unique multilevel system called “Yoga LAM,” based on principles of classical yoga Patanjali, scientific research, and original technologies and practices. “Yoga LAM” helps modern humans govern themselves, develop ecological consciousness and overcome ecological crisis, making them free from different manipulators.

Emy Blesio

President, The World Community Of I.C. & T.D.
Italy 🇮🇹

Emy Blesio is a Yoga Paripurna schoolmaster and UPF Ambassador for Peace, recognized by the UN. She has been involved in the Yoga discipline and Indian culture since 1965 and received an Honoris Causa doctorate by Techno India University. She is the founder and spiritual guide of Suryanagara-Ashram in Milan and president of various organizations related to Yoga and peace. She has organized many events to spread Indian culture and philosophy, including “MITICAINDIA” and the spiritual Symposium “Rays of One Unique Light.” She also trains Yoga Paripurna Teachers at her school in Milan. Over the last 20 years, she has published 12 books on her experiences.

Rajesh Rabindranath

President, Project Self
USA 🇺🇸

Rajesh Rabindranath is a highly skilled Mergers & Acquisitions Implementation Specialist who possesses a keen interest in technology and management. Apart from his professional career, he is a devoted learner of Vedanta and is enthusiastic about sharing his knowledge with others. Rajesh is one of the founding members of Project Self, an organization dedicated to providing weekly classes on spiritual teachings. With his extensive experience in the corporate world and spiritual studies, he simplifies complicated spiritual concepts and makes them easily understandable for a broad audience. Rajesh’s thought-provoking and insightful classes motivate people to embrace a more conscious and meaningful lifestyle.

Dr. Vikrant Singh Tomar

Convenor, United Consciousness
India 🇮🇳

Dr. Vikrant Singh Tomar is a scholar, academician, writer, trainer, and management consultant with expertise in ancient spiritual wisdom and modern living. He has conducted talks and programs on life management and ancient Vedic wisdom for over 240,000 beneficiaries across 30 countries, including Cabinet Ministers, MLA, officers of Defense, Paramilitary, Government, Public Sector Undertakings, and Multinational Corporations. He has authored a book and is a founder director of several organizations, including United Consciousness Global and Project Inc. USA, and serves on the board of the European Yoga Federation and the Spiritual Council in Africa.

United Consciousness