International students applying to the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance may attend the Independent Program, the PTP/Two-Year Certificate Program, the PCP/Accelerated Professional Program , and the TTP/Teacher Training Program.

Generally an International Student attending the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance has to enter the United States in F-1 Student Status. For that reason an F-1 Student Visa must be obtained at the U.S. Embassy in the country of residence or home country. In order to apply for an F-1 Student Visa, the student needs a Form I-20. Once accepted into a program at the Martha Graham School of Contemporary Dance, the prospective student will receive an I-20 Application. The student has to return the completed application to the School in order to be issued the form I-20. Further information on how to proceed will then be provided.

F-1 Students are not permitted to work in the USA. Therefore U.S. government regulations require that International Students provide documentation to the school issuing the I-20 that they have sufficient funds to cover expenses for the length of the program. This includes tuition, fees and living expenses. The living expenses are currently estimated at $2100 per month, tuition, fees and funds for supplies not included.

Applying for an I-20 and a visa is a lengthy process. We recommend that the student contact the school at least 3-4 months prior to the start date of the program in which he/she wishes to enroll.

Summary of steps to take to study at the Martha Graham School:

1. Apply for a Program of study.
2. Receive acceptance letter and I-20 application.
3. Return complete I-20 application to the Martha Graham School.
4. Receive form I-20 from the Martha Graham School.
5. Apply for F-1 student visa at the US Embassy.
6. Travel to the US to study at the Martha Graham School in New York City.

International participants in the Summer Intensive Program or the Winter Intensive Program should enter the US as a visitor for tourist or business purposes. More information will be provided upon registration for an Intensive

For further information please contact Tami Alesson, Director of Student Affairs, at talesson@marthagraham.org.

PHOTOS: Sheng Zhang and Sammy Altenau by Melissa Sherwood