Peridance Capezio Center offers a number of F-1 Visa International Student Programs that enable international students to come to New York City and experience its vibrant and diverse culture, while studying dance of the highest caliber. For over 25 years, Peridance has been a leader in New York City’s dance community, making it possible for students of all levels to live and study in New York. Our current international student population is comprised of over 120 students from over 30 countries!! These include: Russia, Brazil, Israel, Germany, Austria, Italy, United Kingdom, Japan, Mexico, India, Korea, Switzerland, China, Spain, Norway, Sweden, Australia, Finland, The Netherlands and Columbia.
Our world-renowned faculty and remarkable selection of classes and workshops make for a highly rewarding educational dance experience. We welcome you to our state-of-the-art facility, which includes large studios, an in-house Theater, a Café, and a Capezio Dancewear Boutique. Peridance is an easily accessible major hub, where students come to network with nationally and internationally established dancers, teachers, and choreographers.
Peridance provides both new students and transferring students with step-by-step guidance from their initial application to their arrival in the US. Peridance also assists with acclimating to the city, finding housing, taking English lessons, and enjoying student discounts. The School helps students easily transfer from other US schools and, when applicable, change their status from other types of visas.
Students on an F-1 Visa who complete their programs at Peridance, may be eligible to apply for Post Completion Optional Practical Training, which allows them to work with dance companies across the country for one additional year. International Dance School/Peridance Center is authorized under federal law to enroll non-immigrant alien students.
Here are Peridance’s Four Major International Student Programs:
Open Program >
Designed for dancers of all levels, including absolute beginners! Students in this program can choose from over 250 weekly classes at varying levels in: Ballet, Modern, Contemporary, Theater Dance, Jazz, Hip-Hop, House, Tap, Salsa, Flamenco, African, Gaga, Pilates, Yoga, Stretch, GYROKENESIS®, and much more. 3, 6, and 12-month options offer 40-44 classes per month. This program begins on the first of every month.
Certificate Program >
Designed as a professional training program, acceptance into this program is by audition only. Intermediate to advanced level students, ages
17-25, follow an intensive course of study for 2 years. After graduation, students may apply for post-completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), which may enable them to work with dance companies across the country for one additional year. This program offers approximately 65 classes per month along with performance and choreographic opportunities!
Limón Program >
Designed as a unique Professional Study Program (PSP) and offered through a collaboration between the renowned Limon Institute and Peridance Capezio Center. This program offers 20 technique classes per month focusing on the Jose Limon Technique and Repertory combined with an additional 20 classes per month from Peridance’s comprehensive dance curriculum. The program also includes weekly Jose Limon workshops and special sessions.
GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Teacher Training Program > Designed as a specialized 12-month GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Teacher-Training course for all levels. 16 dance classes per month at Peridance enhance a full program of teacher-training courses which prepare the student for a GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® certification. This Program is directed by a GYROTONIC® /GYROKINESIS ® Certified Master Trainer.
Please note: For all of our programs, a percentage of the overall classes are required to be ballet and modern technique. Please ask the International Student Advisor for more details on the exact ballet/modern requirement for your program.
How to Apply
In order to apply to Peridance’s International Student Programs and receive an F-1 Visa from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, both new students and transfer students must complete the following three steps.
If you are a new student, it is best to allow a minimum of three months for the entire process although it can be expedited more quickly if necessary. For transfer students the process can be shorter depending on your prior educational institution. Once you have completed all three steps, and Peridance has received your complete application materials and tuition, you will receive your I-20 along with written notice from Peridance of your acceptance. (See "Complete Application" at the end of this section)
Step 1. Fill out the online International Student Application Form (also available by request from the International Student Advisor) and pay the $200 non-refundable Application Fee. Once your payment has been received, the Advisor will send you, via email, a confirmation as well as an Application Package. You may then proceed to the next two steps.
(Please see Tuition and Fees for more information on fees)
Step 2. Please fill out and submit all of the necessary application documents listed below by email to: raegan@peridance.com (You may also mail hard copies to: Attn: Raegan Wood, Peridance Capezio Center, 126 East 13th Street, New York, NY 10003):
1. A one-page typed essay in English explaining your reasons for wanting to study dance at Peridance Capezio Center and your goals while studying.
2. All 6 of the following application documents. They can be found in our Application Package or obtained from the International Student Advisor.
Payment Options Form
Refund Policy Form
Release and Waiver Form
Questionnaire
Medical Form
Sworn Promise of Financial Support Form: This form is ONLY required if someone other than yourself is supporting you financially (for example, a parent or legal guardian). This form is NOT required if you are financially supporting yourself.
Please let the Student Advisor know accordingly if one or more of the following circumstances are applicable to you in order to obtain the appropriate form. The following forms are only required by some applicants.
ONLY required if you are under 18 years old: Parent Waiver Form
ONLY required if you are transferring from another US school: Transfer Form
ONLY required for students auditioning for the Certificate Program: A 3-5 minute DVD (only if not auditioning in person), an academic and a dance resume, a headshot, and 2 letters of recommendation –Submit to certificateprogram@peridance.com
3. A clear copy of your passport, (ONLY the page with the picture and information).The picture must be clear and not too dark.
4. All required financial documents:
Documentation demonstrating your or your sponsor’s ability to cover tuition and living expenses for the duration of your study in the U.S. Proof of ability to cover these expenses is required by immigration. In order to maintain compliance with immigration regulations, Peridance requests proof of income from copies of tax returns or pay stubs and/or copies of bank statements. For the exact amount that you or your sponsor will need to demonstrate in a bank account, please refer to the box marked Total Tuition/Living Expenses Required for Immigration, located in the fees chart under Tuition and Fees.
Step 3. Once you have submitted ALL documents, please send a tuition payment for your applicable program:
3-month Open Program: Applicants must submit payment in full upon enrollment.
6 and 12-month Open Programs, GYROTONIC® and GYROKINESIS® Teacher Training Program, Certificate Program: Applicants must submit a minimum of 50% tuition payment upon enrollment. The remaining 50% is due before the starting date of the program.
Limon Program: $2700 is payable to Peridance upon enrollment. The remainder is due separately to The Limon Institute.
Complete Application: Once your tuition is submitted and processed, you will receive by mail an I-20 form (a 3-page US government document). For new students, the I-20 must then be taken to the American Embassy in your country of residence in order to obtain your F-1 Student Visa. Make sure to call the American Consulate near you and make an appointment before you receive your I-20. Please let the Student Advisor know if you require assistance with preparing for you interview at the Consulate. You must bring your I-20 with you along with your passport and F-1 Visa to the border crossing in the United States. For transferring students, once approved, you will receive a new I-20 from Peridance.
SEVIS Fee (Form I-901): In order to obtain an F-1 student visa, students must pay the SEVIS fee to the United States Embassy prior to their interview date at the Embassy. This fee is not included in Peridance tuition costs. Students are responsible for paying this directly to the Embassy. For information on how to pay this fee, go to http://www.ice.gov/sevis/i901 or inquire at your American Consulate.
Congratulations! You are now ready to begin your studies at Peridance!
Mandatory Orientation Meeting at Peridance
Once you arrive in the United States, you will be required to attend your scheduled orientation meeting with Peridance’s International Student Advisor. At the meeting, the Advisor will confirm your non-immigration status and provide you with all necessary information. Delay or neglect in attending this meeting will result in immigration complications, which may impact your ability to stay legally in the United States. For the duration of your studies at Peridance, the International Student Advisor will continue to act as your guide and mentor, and will be available to assist you as needed.
Tuition and Fees
Application Fee: Whether you are applying for the first time or transferring from another school, A $200 non-refundable application fee is required. Payment may be made by credit card (Visa, Mastercard and Discover only), money order, personal check (US banks only), or wire transfer. Checks and money orders should be made out to Peridance Center LLC. Please do not mail cash.
Extension Fee: Students completing 3, 6, or 12-month programs who are in good standing, have the option of extending their study for an additional 6 or 12 months. A $150 extension fee will apply for all students requesting program extensions.
Tuition Rates All fees are subject to change. Participation in special workshops, seminars or master classes may incur additional costs.
*During July and August International students taking the Certificate Program are required to take 40 classes per month only
**Additional Teacher Training fees may apply.
Refund Policy: Application/extension fees are non-refundable.
If a student is refused by immigration, he/she will receive a refund for initial tuition paid, minus 10% processing fee and the 3.5% surcharge on all credit card transactions.
No refunds will be given for early withdrawal, absences, or transfers.
In case of refund, payment will be made by check only.
Other Program Information
Transportation
New York City enjoys a wide variety of public and private transportation options, and Peridance is easily accessible by train, bus, and car. To find out how to get to Peridance Capezio Center, Click HERE. The Metropolitan Transit Authority runs public transportation in New York City. Their web site is www.mta.info
Vacation
Some students, depending on the program, are allowed up to 30 days vacation time during their year of study. Vacation days are considered part of the student’s year of study. If a student decides to take vacation, a “class credit” will be issued to make up for their absence. Following their return from vacation, the student may be given a credit of up to 40 classes, to be taken over a two or three month period, in addition to their regular schedule. The International Student Advisor must approve any absences.
Engagements outside of Peridance
To ensure compliance with federal visa regulations, any participation in studies outside of Peridance must be pre-approved and in coordination with the International Student Advisor, and cannot interfere with the student’s class schedule at Peridance. Students may not receive payment for any activities.
Housing Information
Many students find it beneficial to arrange for a short-term stay initially, and to find more long-term housing once they have already entered the United States. While students are responsible for obtaining their own housing, Peridance will assists with finding housing when requested. For a list of Housing Resources, click here.
Please contact Peridance’s International Student Advisor should you require assistance.
Bank Account
Having an account with an American bank can make living and studying in the United States much easier. Through Peridance’s unique relationship with Citibank, Citibank will waive its account-opening fees when Peridance students open a new checking account. Citibanks flagship branch is located a block from Peridance. Please contact Peridance’s International Student Advisor for more information.
English Studies
Peridance Capezio Center is happy to assist all International students in improving their communication skills in the English language. Based on levels and student interest, periodic English courses are taught by professional ESL instructors, focusing on grammar, reading, and writing, and spoken English skills. Interested students should contact Peridance’s International Student Advisor for more information or to enroll in these special classes.
Peridance Capezio Center
Grant Opportunities
For our Swedish students:
Swedish students applying to any of Peridance’s International Student Programs can receive financial aid from the Swedish government through Centrala studiestödsnämnde (CSN).
For our German students:
German students applying to any of Peridance’s International Student Programs can receive financial aid from the German government through Deutscher Akademischer Austausch Dienst (DAAD).
For our Norwegian students:
Norwegian students applying to any of Peridance’s International Student Programs can receive financial aid from the Norwegian government through Lånekassen.
For our Dutch students:
Dutch students applying to any of Peridanc's International Student Programs can receive financial aid from the Dutch government through Prins Bernhard Cultuurfonds.
Frequently Asked Questions What kind of Visa does Peridance offer International Students?
Peridance Capezio Center offers an F-1 Visa that enables international students to come to New York City to study at Peridance.
I have a different kind of Visa, is it possible to change my status? It depends on the type of Visa. Please contact the International Student Advisor for details.
I am currently enrolled in a different school, is it possible to transfer? Yes! Peridance accepts students currently holding an F-1 visa who wish to transfer from a different school. International students seeking to transfer to the International Dance School/Peridance Center must fill out the same application as new students. Keep in mind that the transfer process may take up to one month.
How long does the Program last? The Open Programhas 3, 6, and 12-month options. The Certificate Programis a 2-year commitment and The Limon Professional Studies Program is a 9-month commitment. The GYROTONIC® Teacher Training Program has 9 or 12-month options. Students who are part of the 6 or 12-month Open Program have the option to extend the program for an additional cost.
How much does the Program cost?
Tuition varies by program and duration. Please see the website for cost specifics. Participation in special workshops, seminars, or master classes may incur additional cost.
Are all fees included in tuition?
Tuition covers the costs of the student’s basic coursework. There is an additional SEVIS fee of $200 that all students seeking the F-1 Visa must pay. Once enrolled, participation in special workshops, seminars, or master classes may incur additional cost.
Do I need to be an advanced dancer to be part of the Program?
No! Students of all levels of training may apply though it is easier for students if they come with some prior experience. The Open Program and GYROTONIC® Teacher Training Program are open to all levels. The Certificate Program and Limon Professional Studies Program are designed for dancers at an intermediate to advanced level.
What are the age requirements?
You must be at least 17 years of age to apply for any of the International Student Programs. The Certificate Program is designed for students up to 25 years of age.
Are there performance opportunities for International Students?
Yes! International Students have the opportunity to take part in multiple performances throughout the year including the Peridance Faculty and Student Showcases. Certificate Program and Limon Professional Studies Program students engage in performances limited to their own programs.
How many classes do we take each month?
The number of classes required varies by program. Students in the Open Program take about 40 classes per month. Students in Certificate Program and Limon Professional Studies Program take from 40-60 classes per month. Students in the GYROTONIC® Teacher Training Program take dance classes in addition to GYROTONIC® classes and their training classes. Students who wish to take additional classes may purchase class cards.
What kinds of classes can I take?
International Students take classes through the Peridance Capezio Center open adult class offerings. Depending on the program of enrollment, they may also have classes that are only for students within their program. For specifics, please see the About Our Programs.
Does Peridance provide job-placement assistance?
No.
Does Peridance provide housing assistance?
While students are responsible for obtaining their own housing, Peridance is glad to help international students find housing near the studio. Many students find it beneficial to arrange for a short-term stay initially, and to find more long-term housing once they have already entered the United States. Please contact Peridance's International Student Advisor, Raegan Wood, at raegan@peridance.com for more information. For a list of Housing Resources, click here.
Does Peridance provide financial aid?
The Certificate Program does hold a scholarship audition each year for potential incoming students. Additionally, students can apply for certain grants from their home-country’s government.
How do I apply?
Please see How to Apply and/or visit the webpage!
Testimonials "Peridance is a great place to take class. I have always found the teachers to be supportive and knowledgeable, and the environment comfortable and friendly." Marina Z., longtime student
Interview with Christina Renckens, 22 of Hulsberg,
The Nederlands International Student Program Participant
What was the process like for you to join the International Student Program at Peridance?
"Easy! I initially joined the Limon program at Peridance and received an F-1 Visa. Once graduating the Limón program I continued my studies with Peridance Center as part of their International Program. It was very simple and straightforward to process my paperwork and to transition from one program to the other. Finding a student dorm in New York City was not a problem either."
What made you decide to continue your study at Peridance?
"I felt the need to continue my dance training for a bit longer, after finishing the Limón Program. Peridance was an easy choice, due to the flexibility they have in choosing the classes you want to take. Moreover, I got the opportunity to work part-time as a dance teacher, as part of my curricular practical training. I used to work a lot as a dance teacher back home in the Netherlands, and I started to miss the interaction with students. So this was the perfect combination; continuing my dance studies while being able to teach!" What do you like about the classes at Peridance?
"It's nice that I can adjust Peridance's classes to my daily schedule. It allows me to explore different teachers and find the ones I understand and my body works well with... I now have 4 or 5 favorite teachers. I return to their classes regularly because they all have improved my understanding of dance substantially."
Contact Us: 126 East 13th Street New York, NY 10003 U.S.A. | Tel: 212-505-0886 | Fax: 212-674-2239 | Email: Info@peridance.com
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What was the process like for you to join the 
