International
Student Enrollment Packet
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
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Overview of the Easy Application Process
. . . . . . . . . .
2
Application Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 - 4
Application Form . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5-7
Payment & Bank Wire Transfer Info . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
8
Helpful Information about
Housing & Arriving in the U.S.
9-10
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
What Do I Need to Take to The
U.S. Consulate Appointment? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
11
Tips About Your U.S. Consulate Appointment . . . . . . . . 12
Video Symphony Int‘l Agreement
& Student Policies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-16
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OVERVIEW OF A THE STUDENT APPLICATION & VISA PROCESS
The Video Symphony application and U.S. visa process involves six easy steps. I will guide and assist you
every six steps of the way. So please take 5 minutes to read over the material in this Application Kit and
see for yourself how simple the process is.
SIX EASY STEPS:
1. Visit our website. Browse through our catalog online.
2. Contact the Director of International Services, Sally O’Steen, by either email, phone, or Live Advisor
online chat (see contact details below).
3. Fill out the application and return it with:
a) Bank letter
b) Letter from sponsor if anybody beside yourself is paying for part/all your living expenses while
attending Video Symphony
c) Copy of your high school diploma or credential
Within three days of receiving your application, Sally will inform you if you are accepted. If
accepted, she will send your I-20 form via Fed Ex right away.
4. Once you have received your I-20, complete the online payment form 901. This is a $200 fee to the
U.S. government. See 901 FEE instructions on page 4 of this packet.
5. Fill out the simple DS-156 form and makes appointment with U.S. Consulate. Applicant attends
appointment.
6. Make housing arrangements with our Housing Director, make travel arrangements, coordinate your
arrival with Sally, and welcome to Los Angeles!
Sally O’Steen
Director of International Services
Video Symphony
266 E. Magnolia Blvd.
Burbank, CA 91502
PHONE +1.818.505.3322 - Direct Office Line
FAX - +1.818.301.2118 - FAX
[email protected]
Free free to contact me anytime between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. Monday – Friday.
266 E. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91502 | 818.505.3322 | FAX 818.301.2118 | [email protected]
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APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
FOR VIDEO SYMPHONY ENROLLMENT & STUDENT VISA
1. Complete application. Include a working email address and telephone number. Be sure to include any
country, city or area codes in your telephone number.
2. Obtain a letter written in English and on your bank’s letterhead that includes:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
Date
Account holder's name
Account number
Amount of money in account in equivalent U.S. Dollars
A statement by the bank official to the effect that “I certify that” the amount of money is in
the account.
The typed name of the bank official who signs the letter
Bank Seal (if they have one) and signature of bank official
Telephone number of the bank official
Email address of the bank official
Obtain two original letters. One original letter you will take to the U.S. Consulate, and you
attach the other to your Video Symphony application. Remember, this is a critical document, so
both have to be originals. Banks produce these letters routinely. If they won’t produce a letter,
you can email Sally O’Steen for a form the bank can fill out.
3. If a person other than the student is paying for tuition and living expenses, then the SPONSOR must
provide a notarized letter in English stating:
“[DATE]
I, [FULL NAME], am [RELATIONSHIP TO STUDENT] to [STUDENT'S FULL NAME] certify that I will
sponsor [STUDENT'S NAME] for tuition and living expenses in the amount of [$ U.S. DOLLARS]
during [HIS/HER] educational program at Video Symphony in the U.S.”
Sponsor must sign the letter. Letter must be notarized.
Include the mail address and telephone number of the Sponsor (bank account holder]. Email
should also be included if available.
4. Student must read International Student Policies and Agreement document.
Video Symphony does not require student to sign this agreement until the Video Symphony
registration/enrollment meeting when student arrives in the U.S. However, it is important to
carefully review the student agreements and school regulations prior to submitting an
application because each student is required to sign this agreement when registering.
5. Student must pay $100 for Video Symphony Student Application fee. See “Payment Methods.”
266 E. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91502 | 818.505.3322 | FAX 818.301.2118 | [email protected]
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6. Student must include a copy of his/her school diploma or degree. Student must have graduated from
high school and be at least 18 years of age.
7. Student must include a copy of all pages of his/her passport. Passport must be valid for six months
after the Video Symphony program end date.
8. Student should keep copies of ALL documents sent in the application package.
9. Video Symphony will call student to conduct an interview over the phone if an interview hasn’t taken
place yet.
AFTER YOU RECEIVE YOUR I-20
10. After a student receives an I-20 form, then he/she must fill out an I-901 online form to pay $200 to
SEVIS (U.S. government student immigration service.) Note: This is a separate fee from the Video
Symphony application fee.
This is required before student can make an appointment with the U.S. Consulate. To pay this fee, go to
http://www.fmjfee.com. The important information you will need to fill out this form is:
1.
At the bottom of the instruction page, click I-20 (NOT a DS-2019).
2.
Your SEVIS I.D. Number is located on the top right-hand side of your I-20 document. Please
note that you are required to enter the numbers that follow “N” Do not enter the “N.”
3.
Video Symphony school code is LOS 214F 1897. 000
Please note that the period mark in the second  box is required. If you get a message that it is
not a valid school code, it probably means you have left off the period mark.
4.
Also important to know: Have a credit card ready. Before filling out the form test your printer to
make sure it works. You have one chance to print this document out after you complete the
transaction. If you are unsuccessful in printing it out, then you may have to wait for it to arrive
via U.S. postal mail. That can take a long time. Be sure to keep a copy of the 901 receipt. You will
need to take your 901 receipt to the U.S. Consulate.
Once you have paid your 901 fee and have your receipt number, you can make an appointment with
the U.S. Consulate in your region either online at http://usembassy.state.gov/ or by calling the
Consulate.
For questions, contact Sally O’Steen
Director of International Services
818.505.3322 – direct office line
[email protected]
266 E. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91502 | 818.505.3322 | FAX 818.301.2118 | [email protected]
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ENROLLMENT APPLICATION FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
INSTRUCTIONS: Please complete this application carefully. You can fill it out with Adobe Acrobat then
print it out, sign it, and mail it to us with your bank letter and proof of graduation from high school.
SECTION A: Student Information
Student’s name exactly as shown on passport:
Last name /Surname:
_________________________ First Name: ______________________
Middle Name:
_________________________What you like to be called: __________
Country of Nationality: _________________________________________
Country of Birth:
_________________________________________
Date of Birth:
Month__________ Day_________ Year_________
Current Address:
Street (P.O. boxes not allowed) ____________________________________________________
City______________________________ County/State (if applicable)____________________
Postal Code ____________________
Country ____________________________________
Current Telephone Number: ___________________ Alternate Telephone: _________________
Where would student like postal/courier mail delivered IF different from address listed above:
(P.O. Box addresses not allowed.)
______________________________________________
______________________________________________
Student’s Email (please print clearly): ______________________________________________
Program:  Avid Professional
 Avid Career
 Pro Tools
 Graphics & Animation
Month and year you plan to start program: __________________________________________
Will you be joined by dependents:
Yes
No. If yes, list names and relationship to you:
______________________________________________________________________________
Passport number: ______________________ Passport expiration date:___________________
SECTION B: Student’s Background
High School: Applicant must have successfully graduated from high school or have a GED equivalency.
Name of School:
___________________________________________________________
Address of School:
___________________________________________________________
Telephone number: ___________________________Year graduated: __________________
College or Vocational Education: Graduation from high school is the only educational prerequisite.
We still like to you know your post high-school educational experiences.
Name of School:
___________________________________________________________
Address of School: ___________________________________________________________
Telephone number: ___________________________Year graduated: __________________
English Comprehension. How would you rate your English comprehension skills?
 Excellent
Good
Fair
Poor
(TOEFL or English test is not required.) I have taken the TOEFL or equivalent test:  Yes 
If “yes” above, what was your score? ________
266 E. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91502 | 818.505.3322 | FAX 818.301.2118 | [email protected]
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No
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SECTION C: Optional Information
Recent Employment Background. We are interested in all our students, their skills and backgrounds. This
information is not entered in your M-1 SEVIS visa record.
Name of Employer:
________________________________________________________
Job Title:
________________________________________________________
Dates of Employment: ________________________________________________________
Skills used in job:
________________________________________________________
Other experiences or awards you would like us to know about. (This information is not entered in your
M-1 visa record.)
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________
SECTION D: Funding – Tuition & Living Expenses
International students must be able to show sufficient funds to cover living expenses plus the tuition
costs for the program in which the student is enrolling.
Below please calculate the total funds required:
Program Tuition
$ __________________
Living Expenses for the duration of program
(must be no less than $12,000)
$ __________________
TOTAL
$ __________________
Please indicate the financial support sources for the time period the student plans to study at Video
Symphony. Do not include any money student plans to earn in the U.S. Work is not permitted while in
the U.S. on an M-1 student visa. (See details on next page.)
Sponsor: (Parent, Relative or other person)
$ __________________
Student’s Personal Savings:
$ __________________
Other Funds:
$ __________________
TOTAL $ __________________
Bank Letter Required:
Student must provide a letter from the bank on bank letterhead
A letter from the bank must be in English and indicate that the account holder(s) has/have the total
amount of tuition and living expenses (from Section B of this form) in U.S. dollars. Banks are generally
accustomed to writing these letters for account holders. The letter must be signed by a bank official.
Check One: I have obtained a letter from the bank: 
Yes
No
Are there any government regulations in your country that limit the amount of money that can be
released to the school for tuition or to the student in U.S. dollars?
Yes
No
266 E. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91502 | 818.505.3322 | FAX 818.301.2118 | [email protected]
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SECTION E: Student Signature (Required)
I hereby certify that I understand the financial responsibilities I must assume after admitted to Video
Symphony. The information provided in this application is complete and accurate to the best of my/our
knowledge. I have provided an official English translation of all foreign financial documents (if any)
enclosed with this form. I will also provide a copy of my last diploma or degree. I have read and
understand the “International Student Policies & Agreements.” I understand that Video Symphony
cannot reserve a seat in a program until the first tuition payment has been made.
Student’s Signature: _______________________________________________ Date:_______________
Parent’s Signature: _________________________________________________ Date:_______________
(Parent’s signature is required only if student is under the age of 21.)
APPLICATION FEE, MAILING INSTRUCTIONS & REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:
Application must be mailed back to Video Symphony along with:
1. A copy of the student’s high school/college transcript and diploma or degree
2. Bank letter verifying funds (see Section B)
3. Notarized letter of Sponsorship if person other than student is paying tuition & living expenses.
Mail to:
Sally O’Steen
Video Symphony
266 E. Magnolia Blvd.
Burbank, CA 91502
Student must pay $100 application fee online at www.vs.edu/fees. This is a non-refundable application
fee. Please note: We are unable to process your I-20 before we receive this fee.
Check one: 
Yes I have paid the application fee online
No I haven’t paid the fee online yet
266 E. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91502 | 818.505.3322 | FAX 818.301.2118 | [email protected]
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INITIAL PAYMENT – METHODS
Option #1 CREDIT/DEBIT CARD AUTHORIZATION FORM
(Print and fill out this form. If you choose the credit/debit card option, you may fax this form back to
818.845.1951 – attention Director of International Services)
Video Symphony EnterTraining, Inc. is hereby authorized to charge the below noted CREDIT/DEBIT for
$________________ for _________________________________________ (briefly explain what the charge is for).
Student’s Name: __________________________________________________________________________
In the event that a Debit Card is used, Client assumes all responsibility for any and all overdrafts and charges that
may occur as a result of a Debit Card charge.
Credit/Debit Card #_____________________________________________________ Expiration. Date_________
VID # (last 3 numbers on reverse of VISA & Mastercard)_______________________
Card Holder Name_____________________________________________________
Card Holder Address___________________________________________________
Card Holder City, State, Zip Code_________________________________________
Card Holder Signature__________________________ Date: __________________
Option # 2: BANK WIRE TRANSFER INSTRUCTIONS
For Video Symphony EnterTraining, Inc.
Student may make payment by bank wire-transfer. Student requests his/her bank wire transfer the money to the
bank below. They will request the following information below from you.
Bank:
California Bank & Trust
550 So. Hope Street
L.A., CA 90071
ABA Routing: 121002042 (Domestic Wires)
Swift #:
CALBUS66 (International Wires)
Beneficiary: Video Symphony EnterTraining, Inc.,
266 E. Magnolia Blvd.
Burbank, CA 91502 U.S.A
Account #: 3240115791
Special Instructions: Telephone advise beneficiary (818) 557-7200, ACCOUNTING
All bank charges to remitter*
Remitter: Enter remitter full name
Reference Info REQUIRED: Enter student name, class/program name and estimated start date.
NOTE: Student is responsible for all bank charges. An incoming wire fee of $25.00 must be added to tuition
amount.
266 E. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91502 | 818.505.3322 | FAX 818.301.2118 | [email protected]
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HELPFUL INFORMATION ABOUT HOUSING & YOUR ARRIVAL IN THE U.S.
1. HOUSING.
Housing should be arranged before purchasing your airline ticket. Video Symphony housing is never
guaranteed until you have arranged accommodations with the Housing Coordinator and paid your housing
deposit. Please remember, we have many incoming students, so it is very important that you fill out the
housing application form as soon as possible, even if you are not ready to pay a deposit. Our Housing
Coordinator needs to plan for incoming students. Please email [email protected] once you know you will be
attending Video Symphony, and keep in touch with the Housing Director through your visa process and
travel. The sooner you let the Housing office know you will be attending, the better chance you have of
securing housing. Please also note that the Housing office will especially need to know your specific arrival
plans.
2. BEDROOM FURNITURE: Video Symphony furnishes the living room and kitchen, but not the student
bedrooms. Students are responsible for their bedroom furniture. You can usually buy a complete suite of
new bedroom furniture and desk for approximately $350 USD. There is an Ikea store within walking
distance to Video Symphony and our housing. Many students use Craigslist to find used furniture, and hire a
day mover to pick up and deliver the furniture. Or you can visit www.furniturevision.com to see inexpensive
furniture you can order and have delivered: – look for the least expensive furniture or in the “clearance”
section of this website.
Students are responsible for their own bedding (sheets, blankets, pillows and bathroom towels). These may
be purchased inexpensively at stores like Ikea or Ross Dress for Less both very nearby the campus.
3. PRE-ARRANGE YOUR ARRIVAL WITH VIDEO SYMPHONY: We request you inform us of your flight
number and your date/time of your arrival before you depart. The people to inform are: (1) Sally O'Steen,
Director of International Services [email protected], and (2) the Housing Coordinator [email protected]. Also be
sure to email us if there are any change or delays in your travel.
4. INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL: When you travel to the U.S. from abroad, you are absolutely required to bring
with you ALL the documents you took to your U.S. Consulate visit and any documents you received from
them are related to your visa process–all of them. Bring every document you took to your Consulate visit
PLUS any and all communications by either email or postal mail from the Consulate. Example: One time a
student didn't bring his 901 payment receipt with him when he reentered the country after a vacation
home. U.S. Customs almost didn't allow him entry. CARRY ALL DOCUMENTS WITH YOU – not in your
checked baggage.
When you come through U.S. Customs, please be sure to have my telephone number with you. Once in a
while a Custom's Officer may have a question, so it's important to take this number with you. Typically I
make sure I am available by phone at the time you are passing through U.S. Customs.
Sally O'Steen – Director of International Services / [email protected]
818.505.3322 – Direct office line / 818.505.3322– cell number for emergency
266 E. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91502 | 818.505.3322 | FAX 818.301.2118 | [email protected]
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5. ONCE YOU ARRIVE AT LOS ANGELES AIRPORT: When you arrive at the Los Angeles airport (LAX), you
will need to take either a taxi cab or a "Super Shuttle" to the address of your housing or to Video Symphony
or to your hotel. A "Super Shuttle" van (blue and yellow van) costs approximately $40 fare to Burbank. A
yellow taxi costs approximately $70. Please make sure you have U.S. dollars to pay for this fare. You may
find either a taxi or the Super Shuttle directly outside the airport building as you exit the baggage pick-up
area. There are security officers outside who can help direct you properly to either method of transportation
to Burbank.
If you will be residing in Video Symphony housing, the Housing director will coordinate with you to get you
your key, but this must be prearranged before your departure from your country. Please call Sally O’Steen
upon arrival. Have U.S. money available for this call from a public telephone. If you arrive on a weekend or
after business hours (business hours are 9-6 weekdays), you may have to stay one night at a local hotel. We
recommend the Holiday Inn hotel in Burbank – 818.841.4770 at 150 E. Angeleno Street, Burbank, CA 91502.
This hotel is in the heart of the Burbank Media District and only blocks away from the Video Symphony
campus and housing. We can usually arrange a corporate discount for you at the Holiday Inn, but that must
be prearranged before your arrival.
6. TRANSPORTATION AND BIKES: If you will not have a car while attending Video Symphony, we
encourage you to live in Video Symphony housing which is within walking distance of the school. Keep in
mind that the buses and public transportation stops early in the evening, and you will often want to do lab
work at night, so you may want a bike. Bikes may be carried on buses and the subways. You can look up
information about the Los Angeles transportation system at http://www.mta.org. You can usually find a
previously-owned but decent bike here for $75 to $125. We can refer you to good vendors.
7. BANKING: Please be aware that you can set up a bank account once you arrive in the U.S., however it
may take up to 10 business days to wire-transfer funds from the bank in your country to your new U.S. bank
account. Therefore it’s best to bring enough cash, or have access to enough cash through your ATM card to
last 10 days.
8. CELL PHONE: There are several stores within walking distance of the Video Symphony campus where
you can buy a SIM card for your cell phone. Please plan to make this one of the first things you do upon your
arrival because Video Symphony staff will need to be able to contact you during your first days here, and
you will likely find it helpful to be able to contact Sally O’Steen while you set up in Burbank.
9. CITY OF BURBANK: Burbank is a lovely enclave within the Los Angeles metro area, nestled against the
foothills. In many ways, it is more “Hollywood” than Hollywood itself. Within a three mile radius of our school
is Disney,Warner, NBC, Nickelodeon, ABC, Dreamworks, and a host of other music, video, film and FX post
production studios, large and small. The downtown village where the Video Symphony campus is located is
full of shops, restaurants, theaters and activities. Two websites to visit are www.downtown-burbank.org/
and http://www.ci.burbank.ca.us/
12. LIST OF KEY VIDEO SYMPHONY STAFF: Video Symphony Staff will attend to your questions and needs.
Here is a list of contacts:
(a) Sally O’Steen: 818.505.3322 [email protected] – international visa matters
(b) Housing Director 818.557.7200 [email protected] – housing matters
(c) Financial Office 818.557.7200 [email protected] – tuition payment & accounting matters
13. GOOD RESOURCE WEBSITE: You may benefit from reading through the STUDENT section of this DHS
(Department of Homeland Security) student site http://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/students/start/ Another good site visit and
bookmark is http://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/students/resources/ There is a lot of good information about traveling to the U.S.
as a student, U.S. Customs, obtaining a driver’s license and other matters of interest to you.
266 E. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91502 | 818.505.3322 | FAX 818.301.2118 | [email protected]
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WHAT DO I NEED TO TAKE TO THE U.S. CONSULATE APPOINTMENT?
Check with the US Embassy where you will apply for a nonimmigrant visa, since additional or different
documents might be required and application submission methods might differ depending upon
which US Embassy you visit.
You can find Embassy contact information through http://usembassy.state.gov/. Organize your
documents into a folder or binder so you can easily access them during your appointment.
1.
A passport valid for at least six months after your proposed date of entry in the US.
2.
One photograph according to the Embassy requirements. Be sure you comply with the visa
photo requirements.
3.
A receipt for visa processing fee. Instructions for paying is on the U.S. Embassy website for your
country.
4.
All three pages of I-20 (for M-1 Form. Must be signed by the applicant and by a school official in
the appropriate places.
5.
Financial evidence (bank letter & any other letters or statements) that show you or your
financial sponsors have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses.
6.
Transcripts of diplomas from previous institutions attended
7.
Proof of your binding ties to a residence in your home country which you have no intention of
abandoning.
8.
SEVIS I-901 receipt
266 E. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91502 | 818.505.3322 | FAX 818.301.2118 | [email protected]
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THINGS TO REMEMBER ABOUT YOUR U.S. CONSULATE APPOINTMENT
1.
TIES TO YOUR HOME COUNTRY. Under U.S. law, all applicants for nonimmigrant visas, such as student
visas, are viewed as intending immigrants until they can convince the consular officer that they are not. You
must therefore be able to show that you have reasons for returning to your home country that are stronger
than those for remaining in the United States. "Ties" to your home country are the things that bind you to
your home town, homeland, or current place of residence: job, family, financial prospects that you own or
will inherit, investments, job prospects, etc. If you are a prospective undergraduate, the interviewing officer
may ask about your specific intentions or promise of future employment, family or other relationships,
educational objectives, grades, long-range plans and career prospects in your home country. Each person's
situation is different, of course, and there is no magic explanation or single document, certificate, or letter
that can guarantee visa issuance. If you overstayed your authorized stay in the U.S. previously, be prepared
to explain what happened clearly and concisely, with documentation if available.
2.
ENGLISH. Anticipate that the interview will be conducted in English and not in your native language. One
suggestion is to practice English conversation with a native speaker before the interview, but do NOT
prepare speeches!
3.
SPEAK FOR YOURSELF. Do not bring parents or family members with you to the interview. The consular
officer wants to interview you, not your family. A negative impression can be created if you are not prepared
to speak on your own behalf.
4.
KNOW THE PROGRAM AND HOW IT FITS YOUR CAREER PLANS. If you are not able to articulate the
reasons you will study in a particular program in the United States, you may not succeed in convincing the
consular officer that you are indeed planning to study, rather than to immigrate. You should also be able to
explain how studying in the U.S. relates to your future professional career when you return home.
5.
BE BRIEF. Because of the volume of applications received, all consular officers are under considerable time
pressure to conduct a quick and efficient interview. They must make a decision, for the most part, on the
impressions they form during the first minute of the interview. Consequently, what you say first and the
initial impression you create are critical to your success. Keep your answers to the officer's questions short
and to the point. A rule of thumb is it’s best to say no more and no less than asked.
6.
ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION. It should be immediately clear to the consular officer what written
documents you are presenting and what they signify. Lengthy written explanations cannot be quickly read
or evaluated. Remember that you will have 2-3 minutes of interview time, if you're lucky.
7.
EMPLOYMENT. Your main purpose in coming to the United States should be to study, not for the chance to
work before or after graduation. You must be able to clearly articulate your plan to return home at the end
of your program. If your spouse is also applying for an accompanying M-2 visa, be aware that M-2
dependents cannot be employed in the U.S.
8.
DEPENDENTS REMAINING AT HOME. If your spouse and children are remaining behind in your country, be
prepared to address how they will support themselves in your absence. This can be an especially tricky area
if you are the primary source of income for your family. If the consular officer gains the impression that your
family will need you to remit money from the United States in order to support themselves, your student
visa application will almost certainly be denied. If your family does decide to join you at a later time, it is
helpful to have them apply at the same post where you applied for your visa.
9.
MAINTAIN A POSITIVE ATTITUDE. Do not engage the consular officer in an argument. If you are denied a
student visa, ask the officer for a list of documents he or she would suggest you bring in order to overcome
the refusal, and try to get the reason you were denied in writing.
266 E. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91502 | 818.505.3322 | FAX 818.301.2118 | [email protected]
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INTERNATIONAL STUDENT POLICIES & AGREEMENT
Video Symphony is nationally accredited by ACCET and approved by the U.S. Department of Homeland
Security (“DHS”) to accept International Students. We strive to uphold the highest standards and all the U.S.
rules and regulations that govern international students. This agreement is to help international students
understand their responsibilities and U.S. regulations, and to help international students comply with
regulations and stay out of jeopardy with their visa status.
INSTRUCTIONS: Please read this document carefully. You are NOT required to sign this agreement until you
understand each item completely and have had a chance to ask questions. Typically, students sign this
agreement during their Registration appointment after they arrive in the U.S. Feel free to ask as many
questions about these policies as you have before, during or after your enrollment/registration meeting.
1. FULL COURSE LOAD REQUIREMENT & SCHEDULING:
Student agrees to maintain a full-course load and complete his/her class and lab schedule as scheduled by
Video Symphony. The standard for “full-course load” is 80 hours of class/lab time per month. Occasionally a
student’s class hours and schedule may vary due to variance in the course schedule at Video Symphony, but
student must take enough lab time to uphold the 80-hour per month total class/lab time. The U.S.
Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) strictly regards M-1 students as being in the U.S. for the sole
purpose of completing their curricula and lab hours as scheduled.
Video Symphony is required by law to report any lapse in attendance to DHS. Repeated failure to complete
classes or lab time as scheduled by Video Symphony may result in termination of enrollment and/or a report
to DHS. If a student "no shows" for a scheduled class, then Video Symphony will require from the student a
note from his/her doctor. Failure to produce documentation may result in disciplinary action, or in repeated
cases, termination. Attendance reports are reviewed weekly by Administration.
______ (student signs initials)
2. CHANGES TO COURSE SCHEDULE:
International students are not allowed to change their course schedule. The only circumstances under which
a student’s schedule can be changed is if the student falls ill and provides a note from his/her doctor, or a
death in the family.
_____ (student signs initials)
3. LAB TIME
All HOT time must be completed at the school. Any lab time done at home, or off-campus, will not be
counted as hours toward program completion, or toward student’s international “in status” requirement of
20 hours class/lab per week. Students must log in when they do lab time. Any lab time done without loggingin will not be counted as hours toward program completion, or toward student’s international “in status”
requirement of 20 hours class/lab per week.
_____ (student signs initials)
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4. VISITS HOME
Visits home are a privilege, not a right. Visits are approved on a case-by-case basis, and evaluated on the basis
of a student's academic performance. Director of International Services must re-sign student’s I-20 before
student can leave the country. Students who are in the U.S. on an F-1 visa (the visa in their passport) may not
return home for a visit. Students who have extensions or OPT visas, and students who are awaiting a USCIS
decision about an extension or OPT visa application may not make a trip home. There is a $50/hr. fee for any
assistance with international visa issues relating to trips home that are beyond the scope of verifying that the
student has the proper documents to travel and reenter the U.S.
_____ (student signs initials)
5. KEEP YOUR DOCUMENTS!
As is stated in the Video Symphony International Student Policies, the student is responsible for all original
documents pertaining to their student visa. Video Symphony bears no responsibility for original documents
student receives from the U.S. government or DHS. As easy as this instruction may sound, many students fail
to follow it, causing all manner of unnecessary visa difficulties. There is a $50/hr. fee for the help of the
Director of International Services for providing assistance to the student to replace any documents.
Also, student is responsible to keep copies of (a) any documents given to Video Symphony, and (b) any
original documents enclosed with the I-539 and I-765 applications, including a copy of the application forms.
In the case of an extension or OPT, student is responsible for providing Video Symphony copies of the new I20 and I-797 document(s) once student receives them.
For example, if student submits for an extension and/or OPT, student is responsible for giving Director of
International Services a copy of the I-797 approval notice and approved/stamped I-20.
_____ (student signs initials)
6. COMPLIANCE WITH VIDEO SYMPHONY STUDENT POLICIES & RULES:
Student has read the pages of student policies in the Video Symphony catalog. Student agrees to abide all
school policies listed in the Video Symphony catalog.
_____ (student signs initials)
7. PLACEMENT SERVICES:
Student understands Video Symphony does not provide placement services to International Students.
Student may take advantage of services and counseling (resume critique, interview practice, and all other
services of the Job Placement department) except assistance in finding a job. Video Symphony only assists
students seeking jobs in the United States and who have appropriate long-term work visas.
______ (student signs initials)
8. LEAVE OF ABSENCE:
Student understands he/she may not take a leave of absence or leave the country without the Director of
International Services' approval. To leave the country, International Director must (a) approve the leave, (b)
review student’ attendance record, and (b) review and re-sign student’s I-20. Leave of absence is discouraged
and approval is at the sole discretion of Video Symphony. Decision is based on student’s
attendance/performance, purpose of leave of absence, and the degree to which a leave of absence will delay
completion of the program. Documentation for leave of absence reason may be required.
______ (student signs initials)
9. CHANGE OF ADDRESS, TELEPHONE, EMAIL:
Student agrees to inform Director of International Services of any change of address, email, or telephone
number within five days of change to any of the contact information above. Student understands that for a
change in address, he/she must submit the proper change of address form (either online on uscis.gov or by
postal mail) with the Department of Homeland Security within 10 days relocation - AR-11 form
www.uscis.gov/graphics/formsfee/forms/ar-11.htm and provide a copy to International Director within 10
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days. THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT AND STRICT with the U.S. government, and it will matter if/when you apply
for either an extension or OPT.
______ (student signs initials)
10. EMAIL POLICY:
Student understands that it is important to maintain an active email address and check email regularly (at
least every three days) for notices from VS staff. Student agrees that if he/she sends email to any
administrative staff person at Video Symphony, but does not receive a response, then student is responsible
to re-send the email until either:
a) Student receives an email confirmation from the staff person, or
b) student prints the email and delivers it in person to the intended VS staff person and obtains a
signature from the VS staff person on a printed copy of the document.
______ (student signs initials)
11. WORK-FOR-PAY RESTRICTION:
Student understands that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security strictly disallows M-1 students from
working for pay while enrolled in Video Symphony, with the exception of an OPT (Optional Practical Training)
visa once the student has completed their program. Student understands if he/she wants an OPT work visa,
student must inform the International Director at least 4 months before student’s program end date. See
item15 in this Agreement document.
______ (student signs initials)
12. RESPONSIBILITY FOR KNOWING U.S. REGULATIONS:
In the event of a change of status, leave of absence or other visa matters, student understands that Video
Symphony staff will advise a student to the best of their knowledge. However, in all matters relating to visa,
student understands that the U.S. government holds the student responsible for knowing and following the
U.S. Department of Homeland Security / USCIS rules related to their visa matters. U.S. rules and regulations
may be found on the website: http://www.uscis.gov In some circumstances, a student may need to seek the
counsel of an immigration lawyer. Video Symphony never guarantees the outcome of any petition submitted
to USCIS / Department of Homeland Security.
___ (student signs initials)
13. APPLICANT AGREES TO PAY ANY COURIER MAIL FEES that may be necessary due to a change in
applicant’s plans. Occasionally plans may change after applicants have received their I-20 document.
Students change their date of arrival in the U.S. or change other plans or require additional documents. In
such cases, Video Symphony will supply whatever documents are necessary and send them via Fed Ex to the
applicant. Fed Ex charges will be the responsibility of the applicant.
___ (student signs initials)
14. INTERNATIONAL STUDENT TUITION PAYMENT POLICY:
International students are required to pay tuition as follows: 25% tuition payment must be paid after
approval of the M-1 visa but before arriving in the U.S. to hold a seat in student’s chosen program. See page 8
of the International Student kit for instructions on ways to make this initial payment. 50% tuition payment
must be paid within 10 calendar days of the student’s arrival in the U.S. Student must make the last 25%
tuition payment 90 days after their enrollment. Failure to pay will result in classes being cancelled. This can
jeopardize a student’s status with the U.S. Department of Immigration.
Student understands that the second and third payments must be paid by either bank wire transfer, or U.S.
cashier’s check, or U.S. money order, or a check drawn on a U.S. bank account.
Student is responsible for any and all bank costs/fees that include but are not limited to wire transfer fees,
NSF/UCF fees on returned checks, conversion fees, etc.
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Student refund policies as stated in the Video Symphony catalog are applicable to International Students.
(See Video Symphony “Student Policies” in school catalog.)
All refunds will be issued in U.S. dollars back to the original payee. Any costs/fees (i.e. International Bank
Drafts fees, wire transfer fees, changes in exchange rate, etc.) associated with the refund will be borne by the
student and deducted from the refund.
___ (student signs initials)
15. EXTENSIONS & OPT (OPTIONAL PRACTICAL TRAINING)
Video Symphony is authorized to issue I-20s for M-1 visas for 12 months, but the program in which student
enrolls may be longer. This means the student is responsible for submitting an extension at least 16 days
prior to the end date listed on student’s I-20. Student is responsible for the USCIS fee of an I-539 extension
application, which currently is $290, but subject to change. Student is responsible for reading and following
the instructions of any petition (such as instructions for the I-539 or I-765 application or any other petition
he/she submits).
Student understands that OPT (Optional Practical Training) is a privilege and not a right. The decision to
support an application for OPT at the end of a student’s program is at the sole discretion of Video Symphony
and based on student’s compliance with rules and achievement in the educational program. The I-765
application for OPT must be submitted at least 16 days prior to the student’s end date.
Video Symphony cannot and does not make any guarantee that student application for an I-765 OPT or an I539 extension or any other petition with USCIS will be approved by USCIS.
___ (student signs initials)
Student understands and agrees to all 15 items listed above. Student agrees that he/she has been given the
opportunity to ask the Director of International Services about all questions regarding these policies. Student
understands that infraction of these rules and regulations may have consequence to visa status.
STUDENT:
By:________________________________________
Print Name
________________________________ ______________
Signature
Date
VIDEO SYMPHONY ENTERTRAINING, INC:
By:________________________________________
Representative Name
________________________________ ______________
Signature
Date
266 E. Magnolia Blvd., Burbank, CA 91502 | 818.505.3322 | FAX 818.301.2118 | [email protected]
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