International Students

The Art Institute of Boston welcomes applications from international students. Please contact AIB's Director of Admission, Bob Gielow, to assist you with the process: 617.585.6701 gielow@aiboston.edu

Visa Requirements for International Students

Once you have been accepted for admission and submitted a $300 tuition deposit, AIB will issue an I-20 (refunded until May 1 for the fall and December 1 for the spring). You will need to submit the following documents in order to receive your I-20:

• IFDF (Immigration and Financial Declaration Form)
• Financial support and letter
• Passport copy

Proof of Financial Support

Your proof of Financial Support can include an original, official bank statement written in English and signed by a bank officer, showing funds available for at least your first year of school at AIB. For the 2008/2009 year, the amount that must be documented is estimated to be $46,789. You will also need to provide a letter written by your sponsor indicating his/her relationship to you and his/her willingness to sponsor you for your school and living expenses. The letter must be signed and dated. The IFDF (Immigration and Financial Declaration Form) must be signed and dated as well.

Passport Copy

A copy of the identity and expiration date page of your passport (which needs to be valid 6 months into the future) must also be submitted. For further information regarding your immigration questions once you are accepted to AIB, please call International Student Services at 617.349.8342.

Financial Aid for International Students

Financial support for international students is limited, and all students are encouraged to conduct scholarship research privately. International Students are eligible to apply for AIB Scholarships and Continuing Student Portfolio Scholarships (for current students only). International students are not eligible for Federal or State Financial Aid. International students with a US co-sponsor are eligible to apply for low interest loans through the Massachusetts Education Financial Authority (MEFA). Applicants from Canada do not need a US co-sponsor.

Canadian applicants may also seek out financial assistance through CanHELP, an alternative loan program for Canadian students who wish to study in the US.  For more information about financial resources for Canadian applicants, visit CanHELP online.

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