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

1. Download and complete the I-20 Application.

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

3. 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:

1. File the DS-160 Visa Application.

2. Pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee.

3. 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

More Information