Requirements for F-1 Student Visa Status
  • HB Studio defines a "full course of study" as a MINIMUM OF SEVEN CLASSES PER WEEK. Mandatory classes include at least two Acting classes, one Speech class, one Speaking Voice class, and one Movement class.
  • Your studies must be your priority. While attending HB Studio, NO OTHER ACTIVITY MAY TAKE PRECEDENCE OVER CLASSES.
  • Applicants must possess verbal and written fluency in English. Accepted students whose first language is not English MUST take the TOEFL test and request that the test scores be sent the HB Studio by the testing agency. You must also interview with a teacher from the HB Studio speech department in order to determine which mandatory Speech class or classes are best for you.
  • While studying as a F-1 Visa student, you must be able to support yourself without working. As part of your appplication packet you must submit proof of sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses for the intended period of study: $23,000 for a 4-term, one-year program; $18,500 for 3 consecutive terms; or $15,500 for 2 consecutive terms. (See item 6 under How to Apply for F-1 Status). PLEASE CONSIDER THAT OUR FIGURES REPRESENT A MINIMAL ESTIMATE OF ACTUAL COSTS.
  • All international students pay an annual $150 Administration Fee which is due and payable when you register.
  • The Studio requires payment in full for tuition and all fees upon registration for each term. The Studio accepts Visa, Mastercard, money orders, traveler's checks, cash, wire transfers of U.S. funds and personal checks drawn on U.S. funds in U.S. banks only.
  • The Studio does not offer refunds to students who are dropped or withdraw from the program.
  • The USCIS regulations require the Studio to monitor student attendance. Please review the attendance poilcy contained in your application and the Student Policy Guide before you make your commitment to study at HB Studio. The Studio adheres strictly to its policy regarding attendance.

How to Apply for F-1 Status

A student must submit a complete application package in order to be considered for approval. An incomplete package will delay the review process, making it unlikely that you will be accepted for the term of your choice. You must complete all sections of each form listed below. No application can be considered until we have ALL the following items:

  1. The enclosed Application Form, completely filled out.
  2. Theatrical Resume (You may use the attached sample resume as a guideline).
  3. A short STATEMENT OF PURPOSE (one page or less), explaining your goals for training, why you wish to study at HB Studio and what you hope to accomplish.
  4. Two LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION (in English, or with translations) from current or previous teachers, directors, or others who can evaluate your theatrical training and experience.
  5. Your TOEFL TEST SCORE.
  6. A FINANCIAL STATEMENT. A bank or other financial institution must furnish a letter stating that you have at least enough money to cover tuition and living expenses for your specified period of study as per the following:
  • $23,000 for a one-year program (four terms) starting in any term ie. $17,200 (average living expenses) + $5,800 (average tuition & fees)
  • $18,500 for three terms (consecutive) ie. $14,000 (average living expenses) + $4,500 (average tuition & fees)
  • $15,500 for two terms (consecutive) ie. $12,500 (average living expenses) + $3,000 (average tuition & fees)

KEEP A COPY OF YOUR FINANCIAL PAPERS to present to immigration officials.

NOTE: If the Financial Statement is not in YOUR NAME, but is from a close relative, HB Studio and the USCIS require a LETTER OF SUPPORT stating that the relative will support you in your studies. (If you are being supported by someone other than a close relative an AFFIDAVIT OF SUPPORT form must be completed. In this case, check with the U.S. Consulate). If for any reason you are dropped from the F-1 program, or you choose to leave before the end of the term, your money will not be refunded.

Notification

The Studio will notify all applicants by mail.

If You Are Accepted

The Studio will send you a completed I-20 form. CAREFULLY READ & FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS ON THE I-20. Then take the completed I-20 to a U.S. CONSULATE to have your F-1 student visa issued (Check with the U.S. Consulate to verify all papers needed.
Canadian citizens merely present all of yourn papers when you enter the U.S.

BEFORE YOU SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION PACKAGE, PLEASE MAKE A COPY FOR YOUR OWN RECORDS. HB STUDIO WILL NOT RETURN SUBMISSIONS AND DOES NOT KEEP APPLICATIONS OF THOSE WHO HAVE NOT BEEN ACCEPTED.

APRIL 1 – MAY 15 for study beginning with the fall term
JULY 1 – AUGUST 15 for study beginning with the winter term
OCTOBER 1 – NOVEMBER 1 for study beginning with the spring term
JANUARY 1 – FEBRUARY 1 for study beginning with the summer term

The International Student Program is alive and well at HB Studio.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), states that HB Studio is "authorized under Federal law to enroll non-immigrant alien students." This means that the Studio may certify student visa eligibility for individuals, generally with substantial theater training, who wish to pursue what the USCIS regards "a full course of study" and who meet both the USCIS and HB Studio requirements.

You must submit a complete application package during the periods specified under the "Important Dates" headline.

The Studio processes applications received via postal mail and during these specified submission periods only.