How to Apply for F-1 Status

A student applying for the International Studio Class Program 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 the application. An explanation of each section of the Application is listed below.

Online Application Form

Application Deadlines:

 

FEBRUARY 15 for study beginning with the Summer Term (JUNE 12 – AUGUST 22, 2024) 

MAY 15 for study beginning with the Fall Term (SEPTEMBER 16 – NOVEMBER 26, 2024)

AUGUST 15 for study beginning with the Winter Term (JANUARY 6  – MARCH 17, 2025)

 NOVEMBER 15 for study beginning with the Spring Term (MARCH 24 – June 2, 2025) 

FEBRUARY 15 for study beginning with the Summer Term (JUNE 12 – AUGUST 22, 2025) 

 

Study Acting at HB Studios NYC

Application Form:

Our online application form will allow you to upload all of the required documentation and a video file for your audition. Otherwise, you may download our Application Form and mail all of the materials to our studio in New York.

Statement of Purpose:

In this statement, you should explain your goals for training and why you chose to apply to HB Studio (not to exceed one page).

Theatrical Resume:

Sample Resume Template. Or you may use your own format.

Headshot:

Please upload a current headshot. Acceptable file types are JPG and PNG.

Audition Link/DVD:

A video audition should contain two contrasting contemporary monologues performed in English, 3 minutes each, and a brief a cappella song (or a portion of a song). The Online Application will allow you to list links for your online audition (ex: Vimeo, YouTube, personal website). If submitting more than one website link, please separate by commas. If you are mailing materials, you may send a DVD.

Two Letters of Recommendation:

Current or previous teachers, directors, or others who can professionally evaluate your theatrical training and experience should write a letter of reference. Letters must be signed, dated, on letterhead, and submitted in English, or with a full English translation.

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. The bank statement must contain the letterhead of the bank, the full name of the account holder and not be more than six months old. All documents must be in English or with English translation.

TUITION & EXPENSES

Number of Terms Average Tuition & Fees Average Living Expenses Total
Two Year (Eight Terms) starting any term $24,000 $34,000 $58,000
One Year (Four Terms) starting any term $12,000 $17,000 $29,000
Three Terms $9,000 $14,500 $23,500
Two Terms $6,000 $12,500 $18,500
One Term $3,200 $5,800 $9,000

These figures represent a minimal estimate of actual costs.
F-1 Students are eligible to take an annual vacation (one term) after completing their academic year requirement (3 consecutive terms) at HB Studio and once every year after that.

Letter of Support or Affidavit of Support:

You must submit a Letter of Support if the Financial Statement is in the name of a close relative or friend. Supporters must state that they are responsible for your financial obligations while you are in the U.S. If the account holder is a U.S. citizen, you must submit an Affidavit of Support that is notarized. All documents must be in English or with English translation. 

Biographical Data Page of Passport (with Photograph):

A full-color copy of the biographical data page of your passport (with photograph) must be included. The Online Application will allow you to upload an image file (formatted in JPG, PNG or PDF).

A Copy of Your TOEFL, IELTS or Equivalent Test:

A copy of a current TOEFL, IELTS or equivalent test will need to be submitted for applicants whose native language is not English.

For Transfer Students:

If transferring from another U.S. institution, please submit copies of your current visa, I-20 Form, I-94 Form and EAD card if you are currently on Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Application Fee Payment:

Our application process requires a $25.00 non-refundable fee. The Online Application form will allow you to pay by credit card upon completion. We also accept international money orders for those downloading the form and applying by mail. 

Before you submit your application package, make a copy for your own records. HB Studio will not return submissions, and does not keep applications for those who were not accepted.

Notification:

The Studio will notify all applicants of the results of their applications.

If you are accepted the Studio will mail to you an acceptance letter and a completed I-20 form. HB Studio does not cover expedited shipping of International Student documents. Students are liable for additional shipping costs outside of standard USPS ground shipping.

Carefully read and follow all instructions on the I-20 Form. You must pay a $350 SEVIS fee I-901 (as of June 24, 2019) before you will be given an appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. The SEVIS fee I-901 can be paid online by credit or debit card at https://fmjfee.com. Take the completed I-20 Form, SEVIS fee I-901 payment receipt, your passport, your current financial statement(s) with enough funds to cover your tuition, fees and living expenses while studying at HB Studio and evidence of ties to your home country to a U.S. Embassy or Consulate to have your F-1 student visa issued.  Contact your U.S. Embassy or Consulate — requirements may vary.

Canadian citizens are not required to obtain a visa to study at HB Studio but will need to provide their documents at the Canada-U.S. border. Please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate for the most current information.