International Students: Can They Star In Movies?

International students who are looking to pursue a career in acting or filmmaking in the US may face challenges due to visa requirements and competition. However, it is not impossible. While studying in the US on a student visa, international students can participate in internships during or after their studies, gaining valuable experience and connections in the film industry. Networking is crucial for career advancement, and internships can provide a foot in the door. Additionally, international students can work for one year after graduation under optional practical training status, which must be applied for before graduating. To continue working in the US long-term, a larger company would need to sponsor an H1B visa, demonstrating that they couldn't find an American resident with similar skills. The film industry in the US, especially in competitive hubs like Los Angeles, is challenging to break into, but persistence, hard work, and a willingness to start from the bottom can lead to career advancement over time.

Can international students apply for acting in a movie?

International students can apply to acting schools, such as the American Academy of Dramatic Arts

International students can certainly apply to acting schools to pursue their passion and improve their craft. One such school is the American Academy of Dramatic Arts (AADA), which has a diverse student body, with 30% of its students being international, representing over 40 nations. The Academy believes that this diversity of cultures enriches the learning environment for all its students, creating a welcoming place to study acting.

The AADA has a standard set of general admission requirements for all applicants, regardless of citizenship. However, international students must follow additional procedures regarding immigration and financial matters. The Academy's Admissions and Financial Aid offices provide support and assistance with these policies and procedures. International applicants must also submit copies of their academic records and demonstrate English proficiency if their native language is not English. This can be done through the application and audition process, which is used to determine the student's competence with spoken and written English.

Upon acceptance, international students will receive visa information and guidelines along with their acceptance letter. They will also have access to on-campus job opportunities within various Academy departments, such as Admissions, Production, and Costumes. Additionally, the Academy offers scholarships, assistance opportunities, and payment plans. International students can also explore private lenders for student loans if they have a US citizen as a cosigner or investigate their home country's government financial assistance programs.

Another option for international students interested in acting schools is the USC School of Dramatic Arts, which offers global opportunities, including study abroad programs and fellowships. The British American Drama Academy (BADA) provides an intensive conservatory experience, exposing undergraduates to the rigour of professional British training in acting, helping them develop techniques that will benefit them in any role.

English proficiency is required for international students

International students who wish to apply to act in a movie will likely have to meet English proficiency requirements, especially if they are applying to drama schools or acting academies. For example, The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, which has a student body comprising 30% international students, requires international applicants whose native language is not English to demonstrate sufficient competence with spoken and written English. This is to prevent problems with faculty and student verbal communications that might impede a student's learning and development. The Academy determines proficiency through the application and audition process.

Similarly, international students applying to UC San Diego must also be able to demonstrate English proficiency. The university accepts the following English proficiency exams: the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and the IELTS Academic Training exam. The university-wide minimum TOEFL score required for consideration for graduate admission is 85 for the internet-based test, while the minimum IELTS score is Band Score 7. Applicants with marginal scores on either exam may be required to pass an English proficiency test upon arrival or enroll in an English course until the required proficiency is attained.

Some institutions may also offer English as a Second Language (ESL) programs of study, which international students can enrol in to meet the English proficiency requirement. For example, the University System of Georgia (USG) offers campus-based ESL programs that have been approved by the USG Programs Stakeholder Committee. Successful completion of such a program would meet the English proficiency requirement for all institutions.

It is important to note that English proficiency requirements may vary depending on the specific program or department that an international student is applying to. For example, at UCSD, some departments only accept TOEFL scores, while others may have different minimum score requirements. Additionally, international graduate students who wish to serve as Teaching Assistants must be certified as having the requisite English language oral communication skills, regardless of the year in the program.

Overall, while English proficiency is generally required for international students applying to act in a movie, the specific requirements and accepted exams may vary depending on the institution and program. It is important for applicants to carefully review the requirements of their desired acting school or program before applying.

International students may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships

International students who want to pursue a career in acting and apply to drama schools in the US may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships. While US institutions rarely offer financial aid to international undergraduate students, there are still options available.

Scholarships

Some US drama schools, such as the American Academy of Dramatic Arts, offer scholarships to international students. These scholarships are usually merit-based, awarded to students with exceptional skills, talents, or abilities. For example, scholarships may be granted based on TOEFL scores, academic records, or artistic, musical, or athletic ability. Need-based scholarships are also available, which are awarded to students who can demonstrate financial need. Additionally, international students can apply for scholarships from their home country's government or foreign government aid programs.

Grants

International students can also explore opportunities for grants, which can help cover the cost of attendance.

Loans

International students can also consider taking out private loans, although financial experts advise against accumulating too much debt. Private lenders may consider lending to international students if they have a US citizen as a cosigner.

On-Campus Jobs

On-campus jobs are another option for international students to earn money while studying. However, the rules regarding student employment can be complex, and international students should consult with their International Student Adviser to understand their eligibility for any kind of employment. It is important to note that working on or off-campus should not be the sole source of funding for international students.

Waived Application Fees

Some institutions may waive application fees for international students, reducing the overall cost of applying to drama schools.

Immigration documents and visas are required for international students

International students who want to study in the United States must obtain the necessary immigration documents and visas. The type of visa required depends on the student's specific situation, including their program of study and whether they intend to work during their stay.

The three primary types of student visas in the United States are F, J, and M. An F-1 Student Visa is for those studying at an accredited US college or university or for those studying English at a language institute. A J-1 Exchange Visa is for participation in an exchange program at the high school or university level. Lastly, an M-1 Student Visa is for non-academic or vocational study or training within the country.

In addition to obtaining the correct type of visa, international students must also ensure they have a valid passport from their country of citizenship. This passport must be valid for at least six months after the beginning of their studies. Students will also need to provide official bank statements, including the name of the financial institution, account holder's name, type of account, currency, and account balance. This is to ensure that they have sufficient financial resources to cover their expenses while studying in the US.

One of the most important documents for international students is the Form I-20, "Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status." This form is required for all F and M nonimmigrant visa applications and must be obtained from the student's designated school official. It includes important information such as the student's program start date and allows students to enter the US up to 30 days before the start of their program. Students should keep this form safe and easily accessible, as they will need it throughout their time as an international student.

The process of obtaining the necessary immigration documents and visas can be complex and time-consuming. It is recommended that international students start the process early and carefully review all requirements to ensure a smooth transition to studying in the United States.

On-campus employment is available at some acting schools to support international students

International students who want to study acting in the US face several challenges, including the high cost of tuition and living expenses. While some acting schools in the US offer on-campus employment to support international students, others do not. For example, the Lee Strasberg Institute in New York and Los Angeles offers a one or two-year conservatory programme and accepts many international students. However, the Los Angeles campus of the same institute (LSTFI) does not offer on-campus employment, and students must have sufficient funds to support themselves throughout their studies.

The American Academy of Dramatic Arts, on the other hand, offers a limited number of on-campus jobs to international students. These include roles in various academy departments such as Admissions, Production, Costumes, and the library. The Academy fosters a welcoming environment for international students, with a community of students from over 40 nations.

It is important to note that international students on an F-1 visa are restricted in their ability to work legally in the US. While they may be allowed to work for a limited number of hours on campus, this depends on the availability of such jobs at their school. After graduating, international students are permitted to work for one year in their field of study, which may help them gain valuable experience and build connections in the industry.

Finding employment as an actor can be challenging, and international students may face additional hurdles due to visa requirements. However, some acting schools in the US offer on-campus employment to help support international students financially during their studies. When considering acting schools, international students should research the availability of on-campus jobs and the potential impact on their overall study and visa experience in the US.

Frequently asked questions