International Students

What type of visa is issued?

This school is authorized under federal law to enroll nonimmigrant alien students. The Joffrey Academy of Dance can enroll international students with M-1 visas.

What is an M-1 visa?

An M-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa that is used by those who wish to study in the United States temporarily for vocational reasons.

Who is eligible for the M-1 visa at The Joffrey Academy of Dance?

Only students accepted to the Studio Company, Trainee Program, and Pre-Professional Division Levels V and VI qualify for an M-1 visa.

When can an international student enter the U.S. after their M-1 visa has been approved?

You can enter the U.S. no more than 30 days before the start of your intended program.

Can a student on an M-1 visa leave the U.S. and re-enter?

With a valid I-20 and valid I-94, a student can enter and exit the U.S. freely.

Can a student on an M-1 visa work?

A student cannot work unless they have written permission from USCIS.

What is SEVIS?

Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) is the Internet system that maintains information on nonimmigrant students and exchange visitors. The fee-supported system enables schools and program sponsors to transmit information to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Department of State (DOS) throughout a student or exchange visitor’s stay in the United States. This information includes status changes such as admission at Port of Entry, change of address, change in program of study, and other details.

How long can I stay in the U.S. on an M-1 visa?

The M-1 visas are issued for specific program lengths. Students will have 30 additional days after their program ends to prepare and leave the country.

Will students be guaranteed a visa?

The Joffrey Academy will ensure that qualifying students go through the proper steps to apply for a visa, however, visa approval cannot be guaranteed.

What is the M-1 visa application process?

Initial Steps:

Fill out the Joffrey Academy information form;
Receive I-20 form from The Joffrey Academy of Dance;
Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee of $200.

Apply for a visa:

Apply for a visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Schedule an Interview:

Schedule an interview;
Gather and prepare all documents for visa interview.

Are there additional resources for information about non-immigrant student visas?

What should I do when I arrive for my first day of the program?

On the first day, students should check in with the reception desk and bring their passport, required paperwork for their specific program, and their current address to the Academy offices.

Do International Students need to have health insurance?

Yes, all students are required to have health insurance while attending The Joffrey Academy of Dance. You can use a health insurance company of your choice or you can use one of our two approved insurance companies, International Student Insurance (ISI) or ISO Student Health Insurance. Quotes can be obtained at either of Joffrey Academy’s program landing pages:

ISI: https://www.internationalstudentinsurance.com/school_requirements/7108/Joffrey_Academy_of_Dance.html

ISO: www.isoa.org - select “International student,” type “Joffrey Academy of Dance (IL),” and select student date of birth

Students who participate in ISI plans will have access to Rush Hospital, Joffrey’s medical partner, through the United Healthcare network.