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Frequently asked questions
What are the goals of the NCGR Online Education?
NCGR aims to provide extensive, comprehensive knowledge of all dimensions and areas of
astrology from theory to practice, from the classical to the modern. This is achieved through
structured classes and material, from the fundamental level to the advanced. The classes and the
material follow the PAA Professional Certification program for students who wish to obtain
professional certification, or simply want to study and expand their knowledge base.
NCGR’s education in astrology is the most rigorous and has the highest academic standards
compared to other schools.
How is the education program structured?
The classes and material follow the four levels of the PAA certification program.
Level I covers astronomy for astrologers, natal chart calculation and chart fundamentals,
including planets, signs, houses, rulership and aspects.
Level II covers predictive techniques: Calculation and delineation of transits, solar-arc di-
rections, progressions and other advanced topics, such as house systems, Classical tech-
niques, advanced astronomy and more.
Level III covers topics such as horary, electional, synastry, solar returns, mundane astrol-
ogy, midpoints, Uranian 90-degree dial techniques and the lots – Fortune and Spirit.
Level IV covers topics that are required for certification: chart rectification and client con-
sultation.
How often are the classes offered?
The classes are offered in two annual semesters – spring and fall. Each semester offers Level
I, Level II and Level III, in weekly sessions. Level IV is offered on demand.
How do I register for a class?
Registration for all classes is available about one month before the semester begins. To reg-
ister, go to NCGR Online Education, which includes class schedules and payment information.
Be sure to click on the Curriculum link of the class of your choice to get details of the study
topics.
Are the classes live, or is instruction through pre-recorded videos and texts?
All the online classes are live and interactive. Everyone – teacher and students –
are present on Zoom audio and video. The material is presented with ample graphics
and visuals. You are not asked to learn on your own from a required pre-recorded
lecture, or from a book. All materials are provided and the study takes place in class.
The interaction is personal, and your questions are answered in real time by the
teacher.
Can I communicate with the teacher?
Yes, you can communicate with the teacher in real time during class, and also by email later
on.
I am not a beginner. Can I skip Level I and go directly to Level II?
Yes, but it is not recommended. Level II includes predictive calculations that are consistent
with the calculation methodology learned in Level I. If you have never learned how to calculate
a natal chart, or you did it many years ago, then skipping Level I will put you at a disadvantage,
and you might need extra help. Level I also includes Astronomy for Astrologers, which covers
material that is rarely taught in other places and is needed in both Levels I and II. The curricu-
lum is designed for continuity of subject matter and teaching methodology, so the recommenda-
tion is to start with Level I.
May I take Level I and Level II courses simultaneously, or must they be taken one at a time?
Taking both classes at the same time isn’t recommended. It would require attendance two
nights a week for intensive coursework, making it difficult to complete assignments. The math
for chart calculations provided for Level I students is the foundation for Level II coursework,
making it unrealistic to proceed with Level II until Level I coursework has been completed.
Can I complete the education program in one year?
The NCGR education program is comparable to a four-year college degree in scope and
depth, and each level encompasses an entire semester.
If you are studying towards certification, you will need to take the exam for each level. It is rec-
ommended that you take the exam after the course is completed before beginning the next level.
I just want to study astrology. Do I have to take the tests?
No, you don’t. You can set your own goals: Expand your astrological horizons, get in-depth
knowledge on important subjects, clarify subjects that you picked up on the internet and in
other people’s lectures, and have all your questions answered thoroughly.
However, along the way you may change your mind and decide to take the exams, since the
courses are structured for this purpose. We hope you will.
Do I have to attend the classes or can I just watch the recording?
Theoretically it is possible, but the teacher will have to approve this based on circumstances.
For example, you could be in a different time zone, which may make attending class inconven-
ient.
The disadvantage of not attending the live class is not having immediate class interaction and an
inability to ask questions in real time when you seek an answer immediately. It is static learn-
ing, like watching a video.
Is there required reading?
The required reading consists of the material provided in class. This material is extensive
and comprehensive, focusing on each topic, and is compiled and prepared by the teacher. Book
lists are provided, and the teacher makes recommendations also.
What kind of material is provided for the courses?
The teacher provides students with all the necessary material for each class.
The teacher provides the students with all the necessary material. The class curriculum contains
essential knowledge from contemporary and Classical sources. The only necessary purchases
are an ephemeris, a Book of Tables of Placidus houses and a specific type of calculator, which
are detailed in the online curriculum available at NCGR Online Education.
Are there prerequisites for taking a class?
There are no prerequisites for Level I – come as you are, although a fundamental knowledge
of astrology is helpful.
Prerequisites for Level II: An ability to calculate a natal chart and basic astronomy for as-
trologers.
Prerequisites for Level III: Solid knowledge of the topics covered in Levels I and II; and an
ability to delineate a natal chart and predictive analysis, including transits, progressions
and solar-arc directions.
Prerequisites for Level IV: Solid knowledge of natal delineation and predictive work.
If you take all four levels in consecutive order you will be well prepared for each step.
What kind or style of astrology, or school of thought, is taught?
The courses focus on traditional and Classical astrology. Hellenistic and Medieval tech-
niques are incorporated also. Modern techniques, such as midpoints, the Uranian system and
asteroids, are covered as well.
Are the classes recorded?
Each class is recorded and an mp4 file is sent to students immediately after class. Students
are encouraged to download and save the file on their computers. These class recordings are
invaluable for reviewing material before taking a test.
I live in a different time zone. How can I take the class?
The classes are usually scheduled for 7:00 p.m. U.S. Eastern Time. Based on your location,
your options are to get up early, stay up late or ask the teacher to register for class, not attend
live and receive the recordings.
If this suits you and the teacher approves, then you can continue to communicate with the
teacher by email and phone and submit homework, etc.
I am planning to get the PAA professional certification. How long will it take?
Professional certification is provided by the Professional Astrologers’ Alliance. It requires
passing all four examination levels consecutively. No level may be skipped.
Plan for about three years. It takes time to go through each level, prepare for the exam and pass
it. On average, each level takes four months, although Level II can be longer. It is time well
spent, since the comprehensive learning is extensive, not only to pass the tests, but also to im-
prove your skills as an astrologer.
Think of it as going to college: You are investing in your future!
How do I go about taking the PAA exams?
The PAA exams are taken online, and in some cases, proctored on paper. A full description
of the process can be found on the PAA website. It covers the curriculum for each level, regis-
tration and a technical explanation of the exam procedure.
First, make sure that you are well prepared and have mastered the material. Second, familiarize
yourself with the information on the PAA site. Then register.
More information is detailed in the next section.
What do I need to know in order to attain my goal of becoming a professional astrolo- ger?
There are a variety of potential niche areas for professional astrologers. The most traditional
is becoming an astrological consultant who interprets charts for clients. All possible niche
branches of astrology require knowledge and technical skills that are taught in Levels I, II and
III; Level IV focuses on consulting skills. Beyond technical skills, students are encouraged to
cultivate a professional demeanor and conduct themselves in a competent, reliable and respect-
ful manner. Professionalism elevates everyone in the field.
PAA Testing & Professional Certification FAQs
The Professional Astrologers’ Alliance’s mission is twofold: One, to promote the common in- terests of astrologers and to improve the status of the subject and profession of astrology through the implementation of a testing and certification program; and two, to promote high ethical standards in the practice of astrology.
What is PAA certification?
Astrologers that are PAA certified have successfully completed the PAA Level I, II, III and
IV certification exams. They are entitled to present themselves as C.A., PAA-NCGR or certi-
fied astrologer, PAA-NCGR.
PAA certification is recognized as the highest standard within the astrological community, and
achieving it also elevates the status of astrology as a profession to the general public.
Why should I get certified? What is the added value?
PAA certification is recognized as the highest standard within the astrological community,
and achieving it also elevates your status among astrologers.
On a more personal level, by completing Level IV certification, you know you have accom-
plished the goals you set for yourself. It gives you confidence in your practice of astrology and
respect from your peers and clients.
How is the certification obtained? Do I have to take all four levels to be certified?
It is simple – you take classes and study, and when you are ready, or your teacher says you
are ready, you register for the test. You must pass each level before taking the next one. At each
level you receive a letter confirming that you passed. PAA certification and the title are granted
after passing Level IV.
Does PAA offer courses? Where can I study to meet the PAA testing standards?
The PAA does not offer astrology courses. Its role is to provide professional certification
and credentials that are based on a comprehensive and structured exam program. There are a
number of astrology schools, astrological organizations and private teachers that have high-
quality education programs, and you may inquire with them. One recommended source is
NCGR Online Education. Regardless of where you study, you must make sure that study mate-
rial covers the topics listed in the PAA curriculum.
Can I get credit for certification courses taken at another school?
PAA has an equivalency program, described on the certification page of the PAA website.
Check with your school to see if it participates in this program or wishes to be.
I don’t speak English. Are the exams available in other languages?
Yes, the exams are currently available in English, Spanish and Turkish.
Are the tests available online only?
When the situation requires it, PAA exams can be taken in writing, on paper, in a ‘sit-down’
environment, monitored by a proctor. This requires special arrangements to be made; when you
register, please specify, and PAA will help to set it up.
I don’t have a reliable online connection. Is there an alternative to online testing?
When the situation requires it, the exam is also available in writing, on paper and in a ‘sit-
down’ environment, monitored by a proctor. This requires special arrangements to be made;
when you register, please specify, and PAA will help to set it up.
Are the tests given on specific dates?
No, you select the date and time that is most convenient for you. Since the test is online, it
can be taken from anywhere in the world, at any date and time suitable for you and coordinated
with the PAA and the online monitoring service.
When should I take the test?
As soon as you know you are ready. You request the date and time of the online test at regis-
tration, but you must allow at least two weeks for PAA to arrange the online test.
How do I register for a test? What do I need to do?
Go to the PAA website testing page and follow the instructions. You will fill out a form
which goes to PAA, and you will be contacted with further instructions after that.
Are the exams conducted as “open book”?
No. You must have achieved mastery of the material, including mathematical calculations
for chart construction. No books or instructions, printed or otherwise, are permitted in the test
environment.
The only items permitted are an ephemeris, the Book of Tables, a hand calculator and blank pa-
per.
Is there a study guide? How can I find out about the material covered in the exams?
In the transition to online-testing, the PAA exams have been upgraded and improved, and
the existing PAA study guide does not cover the updated exam material sufficiently. You must
refer to the curriculum page on the PAA website, where you will find the detailed curriculum in
PDF format, which you can download and save.
Are there calculation questions in the test?
Yes. For Level I you must be able to calculate a complete and accurate natal chart.
For Level II you must know how to calculate accurate progressions and solar-arc positions for
specific dates. See the curriculum page on the PAA website.
Does the test include questions on chart interpretation?
Yes. Level I includes delineation questions for a natal chart. Level II has questions about
natal chart delineation and event analysis, which aim to integrate predictive techniques into a
meaningful narrative.
What material do I need to have with me at the test?
You will need an ephemeris for the 20th and 21st centuries at midnight GMT, a Book of Ta-
bles for Placidus houses, a sexagesimal calculator and blank paper to write on. Pencils and a
good eraser are recommended too.
What is the test format? Is it multiple choice?
Most of the questions are formatted with multiple-choice answers. Some questions may re-
quire essay-style writing, which is done in a window within the body of the test.
What happens at the online test session? How does it work?
At the date and time set for the test, you sit at the computer and follow the instructions pro-
vided by the PAA. The monitoring service proctors the online test, which ensures a controlled
environment, both electronically and through human interaction. When you take the test from
your location of choice, you will be connected to a live person, who will ensure all conditions
are met. The details are listed on the procedures page on the PAA website.
How long is the test? How much time do I have?
There is a time limit on the test, which will be specified in the set of instructions sent after
registration. There should be ample time to finish the test comfortably.
How long does it take to receive the test results?
The online testing system grades the exam immediately, after which it is reviewed by a hu-
man. It may take two weeks or longer to deliver the final results.