Question 1

What is an I-20 and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

The Form I-20 is an official document issued by the Los Angeles Acting Conservatory that certifies a student's eligibility to apply for an F-1 student visa.
All international students must receive an I-20 before applying for their visa.

Question 2

What type of visa do I need to study at the Los Angeles Acting Conservatory?

Accepted Answer

Students are required to obtain an F-1 Student Visa to enroll in our full-time acting or filmmaking programs.

Question 3

How does the student visa application process work?

Accepted Answer

Download and complete the I-20 Application.

Submit all required documents, including proof of sufficient financial support.

3. Once your documents are reviewed and you are accepted into the program, LAAC will issue and mail your I-20.

Question 4

What should I do after receiving my I-20?

Accepted Answer

You must complete the following steps to obtain an F-1 visa:

File the DS-160 Visa Application.

Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee.

Schedule and attend a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your country.

The consular officer will determine whether a visa will be issued.

Question 5

What questions may come up during the visa interview?

Accepted Answer

You will need to provide:

Proof of financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses

Evidence of strong ties to your home country (family, job, education, property, etc.)

A clear explanation of why you chose LAAC and how you plan to use your training after returning home

Important:
 The purpose of the F-1 visa is education, not immigration. Any indication of intent to remain in the U.S. permanently may result in denial.

Topics commonly covered:
Any previous U.S. travel

Your family’s travel history

Your academic background

Who is sponsoring your education

Parent or sponsor’s salary

Explanations for large recent bank deposits

How you will pay for multiple years of study

Your plans after completing the program

Question 6

Do Canadian students need a visa?

Accepted Answer

Canadian citizens do not need to apply for an F-1 visa.

However, they must enter the U.S. in F-1 status, which requires:

Form I-20

Proof of Canadian citizenship

Financial documentation

Question 7

What are the estimated monthly living costs in Los Angeles?

Accepted Answer

Students should expect:

Housing: $850–$1500/month (varies by area and apartment type)
Additional living expenses: approx. $900/month for food, transportation, phone, etc.

Question 8

What is the grace period for F-1 students?

Accepted Answer

Students may enter the U.S. up to 30 days before their program start date

Students may remain in the U.S. up to 60 days after completing their program

Question 9

Can I transfer my I-20 to the Los Angeles Acting Conservatory?

Accepted Answer

Students currently studying in the U.S. with an F-1 visa may transfer their SEVIS record to LAAC.

Students on M-1 or J-1 visas should contact our office for individualized guidance.

If you are unsure about your visa status, please contact us for assistance.

Student Visa

Frequently asked questions