International Student FAQs

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the very first thing a student must do if he/she is interested in attending AMDA?

International students should complete either an e-app or a paper application, pay the application fee, and schedule an audition.

What classifies a student as international?

"International students" are those students needing nonimmigrant visa classification. Legal permanent residents of the United States, residents of US territories, and naturalized citizens are not considered international students.

Are there any other resources available (money) for students?

Nonimmigrant students should investigate what scholarships, outside of The AMDA system, are available to them via the Internet. For nonimmigrant alien students already within the US, the best source for obtaining detailed descriptions and requirements of available monies is at a local/state library. Likewise, there are special search engines that help students facilitate the process with online applications. Some online search engines that may also be useful in identifying scholarship opportunities include: FASTWEB (www.fastweb.com), The Institute of International Education (www.iie.org), NAFSA: Association of International Educators (www.nafsa.org) and Rotary International (www.rotary.org). It is strongly recommended that students do some type of research on the grantor, prior to providing personal information over the Internet. If the company that is promoting the grant does not have some type of governmental or state sponsorship/affiliation, it may be a risk to divulge confidential information.

Are international students eligible for AMDA scholarships?

Yes, international students are eligible for scholarships where the funds for the scholarship come directly from the school. International students may be eligible for an AMDA scholarship based on the audition and application process. However, international students cannot receive government-based, U.S. financial aid. They are not eligible for any scholarships, grants, or loans which are subsidized by the US government. AMDA sets aside certain money specifically for international applicants. Please check with your admissions advisor to determine if they have any special international student scholarships.
 

Is there someone at the school that assists nonimmigrant students adjust to a new environment?

Each campus has a dedicated International Student Advisor/Designated School Official. This school advisor will assist the student in a variety of capacities that include specialized international student orientations that address specific nonimmigrant requirements, as well as the day-to-day lifestyle changes an international student may face in a new culture.

It is strongly recommended that international students realize how important it is that they communicate with the International Student Advisor. This advisor can explain process and etiquette in the US educational system and direct students to other campus representatives that can appropriately advise them.

Where do prospective students take TOEFL?

Applicants can take the TOEFL at various test sites around the world. The individual should go to www.ets.org/toefl. Then, click the link “Learners and Test Takers” on the left hand side of the page. From that link, select a specific country which will provide test sites and contact information within the country. International students must submit scores for the TOEFL or its equivalent prior to enrollment.