International Student Information – Visa Trainee Program
The Joffrey Ballet School is approved by the U.S. Department of Immigration to enroll full-time foreign students on the F-1 student visa. The minimum period for such visas is one year. Student visas must be renewed one month prior to the date of the visa expiration. Renewals are granted subject to satisfactory attendance, prompt payment of fees, and evidence of sufficient financial support. Visa Trainees are required to take the full 20 class Trainee schedule.
Living Expenses
Since the holder of an F-1 visa is not permitted to work in the U.S., the School requires evidence that the student has enough money to cover a full year of study. Based on the experience of former students, the School estimates the total cost, including tuition in the Trainee Program, for one year in New York City to be $US 10,000 - 15,000.00.
Health Insurance
International students must also have a health care provider; if they do not have one then the School will provide forms for insurance.
Tuition Payment
Tuition for foreign students must be paid by the semester. Even the most qualified foreign applicants are not eligible for federally-funded financial aid programs. They may, however, qualify for merit-based scholarships.
To obtain an I-20 form, complete the enclosed student application form and return it to the school with a $100.00 fee. You will then receive the I-20 upon completion of the application.
You may arrive in the United States before the starting date on the form but not after. When you receive your I-20 form, sign the bottom left corner and process your F-1 (student) Visa at the American Consulate in your county. You will need to bring your valid Passport, I-20, passport photos and a bank statement showing evidence of your financial support for one year. Shortly before you land in the United States, you should receive an I-94 card to fill out. If you do not receive one, please ask the flight attendant. Show your passport, I-20 and I-94 Card to the immigration officer. The officer must stamp both page 1 and page 3 of the I-220. Page 3 is yours to keep. Immigration must keep the page 1 for processing; otherwise you will not be registered.
After arriving in New York, you must report to the Joffrey Ballet School within 3 days.
If you have any further questions, please contact the school at (212)-254-8520, or e-mail at
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Foreign Student Application in English