NYFA 2016 Student Handbook (1-20-16)

SPRING 2016 STUDENT HANDBOOK 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

INTRODUCTION 7

Welcome History Statement of Purpose Mission Objectives 8 Licensing & Approvals Student Access to Staff & Faculty Student Interaction 9

Note About Our School About the Student Handbook

2015 ACADEMIC CALENDAR 10

CODE OF CONDUCT 12

REGISTRATION & COURSE SCHEDULES 16

Registration 16 Student ID Badges NYFA Email Accounts Course Schedule

TRANSPORTATION & HOUSING 17

Housing Information Public Transportation Bicycles 18 LIBRARY, FACILITIES & EQUIPMENT

Library Resources Classrooms Post-Production & Computing Computer Areas Equipment Room

STUDENT RESOURCES 19

Veteran Affairs International Student Office Learning Differences Industry Outreach & Professional Development 20

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

ACADEMIC RESOURCES 21

Academic Advising Learning Differences Learning Resources Director Library Resources Library Fine Policy 22

TUITION & COSTS 23

BFA Filmmaking Expected Supplies Costs 24 26 MFA Filmmaking Expected Supplies Costs Expected Supplies Costs 28

REFUND POLICY 29

FINANCIAL AID 30

Financial Need 31 How to Apply Federal Education Loans

Federal Direct Loan Program Subsidized Stafford Loans 32 Loan Origination Fee Unsubsidized Stafford Loans Federal Direct Plus Loan Program 33 Parent (Plus) For Parents of Dependent Undergraduate Students

Graduate plus Loan for Graduate Students Other Types of Financial Assistance 34 Financial Aid Probation Financial Aid Suspension Financial Aid Policies 35

NEED-BASED TUITION DISCOUNT 36

General Application Tuition Discount Criteria Period of Discount 37

DRUG & ALCOHOL POLICY 38

CAMPUS POLICIES 42

Dress Code Smoking

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

Neighbors Bikes & Skateboards Pets & Animals

CAMPUS CRIME & SECURITY 43

Jeanne Clery Act

Reporting Intimidation, Threats or Violent Acts The Investigative Process

Disciplinary Action: Students, Faculty, & Staff 44 Non-Emergency Procedures & Reporting Code of Conduct Violations Crime Log Non-Residential Buildings 45 Property Security Against Theft Harassment Definition of Sexual Assault Definition of Dating Violence Sex Assault, Dating, Domestic Violence, & Stalking 46 Prevention & Awareness

Procedures for Reporting Sexual Assault Sex Offender Notice Timely Warnings Emergency Notification System Evacuation Procedures 48

CLASSROOM POLICIES 49

Cell Phone Policy Personal Belongings

Consultations

Room Bookings

51 ATTENDANCE POLICIES

Attendance

Excused Absences

Unexcused Absences Absences for Undergraduate & Graduate Programs Absence Penalties 52 Mandatory Withdrawal (due to Absences) Leave of Absence

ACADEMIC POLICIES 54

Testing-Out Grade Appeal Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

Academic Progress 55 Grading Policies 56 Structured Remediation Program (SRP) 57 Failed Courses

Add/Drop, Change & Withdrawal Add/Drop, Change Dates 58 Test-Out Policy Thesis & Final Projects 59 Vacation Break Grade Appeal Graduation Requirements 60

CREDIT EARNING POLICIES 61

Full-Time Status

Independent Study

62 TRANSFER CREDIT POLICIES

Transfer of International Credit 63

Credit for Non-Traditional Experience Other Course Work Notice Concerning Transferability of Credits & Credentials at Our Institution Tuition Credit Tuition Credit

DISCIPLINARY POLICIES 64

Simultaneous Probations Procedural Hold Suspension Expulsion

CREATIVE FREEDOM 65

Academic Freedom Academic Honesty & Creative Integrity Freedom of Speech Copyright Infringement Policy 66

Intellectual Property

EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS & PRIVACY 67

Retention & Persistence Student & Instructor Non-Fraternization Policy Diversity & Non-Discrimination Policy Reporting Discrimination Harassment & Sexual Assault 68

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

Student Rights & Grievances 69 Student Grievances Procedures

NOTIFICATION OF STUDENT RIGHTS UNDER FERPA 70

DIRECTORY 71

Campus Hours & Address Online Publications

Student Services

Production Resources

Administrative Resources 72

Academic Resources

Student Resources

Production, Post Production, & Equipment 73

Filmmaking Department

Acting for Film Department

Liberal Arts & Sciences Department Photography Department

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

INTRODUCTION

WELCOME HISTORY

Welcome to the New York Film Academy. The New York Film Academy was founded in 1992 We’re sure you’re going to find your time at on the belief that a top-quality education in the school enlightening, productive and filmmaking should be accessible to anyone with the exhilarating. drive and ambition to make films. The school opened in Robert De Niro’s Tribeca Film Center in New We have outstanding faculty to guide you York City, and has expanded worldwide to include through your program and help you develop campuses in New York, Los Angeles, Abu Dhabi and your craft. The administration and staff are the Gold Coast, Australia. here to help with any questions or concerns you may have. Please take advantage of our STATEMENT OF PURPOSE services; we’re here to make your time at the Academy as rewarding as possible. The purpose of the New York Film Academy (NYFA)

Our programs are accelerated, intensive and is to further a global understanding of, and challenging. They will afford you the appreciation for, the art and craft of visual storytelling opportunity to explore the possibilities of through the education and training of interested and qualified individuals, and to hone the skills of future visual storytelling as you hone your personal artistic vision and voice. To succeed in these professionals so that they may one day serve the visual programs, however, your best efforts will be storytelling arts as industry leaders. required. Hard work, dedication, collaboration, passion and persistence will pay MISSION off as you find yourself growing as an artist.

The mission of the New York Film Academy is to In order for all students, faculty and staff to educate students interested in the field of visual be able to thrive in an open, cooperative, storytelling. NYFA courses have been designed to supportive environment, please follow the increase students’ creativity and technical expertise policies outlined in this handbook. through an intense regimen of hands-on and classroom instruction. The Academy’s goal is to Sonny Calderon enrich its students as visual storytellers by helping Dean of the College them realize their personal artistic visions. NYFA’s expectations center on the growth of each student as a creative individual.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

8 OBJECTIVES As of this handbook’s publication, The New York Film Academy does not have a pending petition in NYFA has set the following objectives to bankruptcy, is not operating as a debtor in fulfill its stated mission: possession, has not filed a petition within the preceding five years, and does not have a petition in • To provide a learning environment bankruptcy filed against it within the preceding five conducive to creative thought and artistic expression, as well as hands-on years that resulted in reorganization under Chapter collaboration. 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code (11 U.S.C. Sec. 1101 et seq.) • To help students better appreciate the art

and craft of visual storytelling so that they may develop as artists and better express This institution is approved by the United States their personal artistic visions. Citizenship and Immigration Services, a Bureau of the Department of Homeland Security (formerly • To empower students to find and develop the United States Department of Justice, acreative voice. Immigration and Naturalization) for attendance by • To teach and develop new capabilities in non- immigrant students. students’ approach to the art and craft of

visual storytelling. STUDENT ACCESS

TO STAFF & FACULTY LICENSING & APPROVALS

The New York Film Academy is a private Students are provided flexible access to one-on-one postsecondary institution accredited by the consultations with each of their instructors. In National Association of Schools of Art and addition, all full-time faculty are available for an Design (NASAD). additional three hours per week outside of class for As of this catalog’s publication, the New York office hours and consultations. Administrators are Film Academy South Beach is licensed by the readily available to provide individualized Florida Commission of Independent mentoring and counseling for any issues related to Education to operate under a provision al their individual fields of expertise. The New York license in the state of Florida. Under Film Academy is open for students Monday- Provisional Licensure, the institution may Saturday, except on specified holidays. When the advertise, recruit students, accept fees and Academy is open, a staff member is always available tuition from or on behalf of students, and by phone or in person for consultation, questions, hold classes, but may not actually award a or help. Also, during hours of operation, students degree or a credential requiring one year or have access to the library and all learning resources. more to earn. Students may use the Editing Room by signing up one day in advance in the Post-Production Office. Additional information regarding this institution may be obtained by contacting the Commission at: 325 West Gaines Street Suite 1414 Tallahasse, Florida 32399 Telephone & Fax: 888-224-6684 (toll-free) or 850-245-3200 or by fax 850-245-3234 New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

STUDENT INTERACTION ABOUT THE STUDENT HANDBOOK Intra- and inter-departmental interaction between students is a vital component of the collaborative The Office of the Dean of the College publishes the experience fostered by the New York Film Academy 2015 NYFA, South Beach Student Handbook. This education. Assigned studio and lab work is often Handbook serves as a guide for all students enrolled collaborative in nature (as are in-class critiques of at the New York Film Academy in the 2015 student work), but additional interaction is academic year and supersedes any handbook encouraged and supported by the Academy outside previously published. The New York Film Academy of the framework of the curriculum. All students reserves the right to change policies and regulations from all departments are encouraged to attend the periodically. final screenings.

NOTE ABOUT OUR SCHOOL

Consistent with the mission and educational objectives of NYFA, the focus of the Academy's programs is to develop each student's artistic and creative potential in the art and craft of the moving image. Filmmaking, Acting for Film, Documentary Filmmaking, Producing, Cinematography, Screenwriting, Photography, Game Design, 3-D Animation, Illustration and Graphic Design are all means by which a student may express his or her personal artistic visions.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

2015 ACADEMIC CALENDAR

MASTER OF FINE ARTS IN FILMMAKING

Registration: 9/24/15 1st Semester: 10/1/15 - 1/23/16 Holiday Break: 12/20/15 - 1/3/16 2nd Semester: 2/1/16 - 5/21/16 3rd Semester: 5/31/16 - 9/17/16 4th Semester: 9/26/16 - 1/21/17 Holiday Break: 12/18/16 - 1/2/17 5th Semester: 1/30/17 - 5/20/17 6th Semester: 5/30/17 - 9/16/17

MASTER OF FINE ARTS IN ACTING FOR FILM

MASTER OF FINE ARTS IN PHOTOGRAPHY

BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS IN FILMMAKING

Registration: 9/24/15 1st Semester: 10/1/15 - 1/23/16 Holiday Break: 12/20/15 - 1/3/16

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

2nd Semester: 2/1/16 - 5/21/16 3rd Semester: 5/31/16 - 9/17/16 4th Semester: 9/26/16 - 1/21/17 Holiday Break: 12/18/16 - 1/2/17 5th Semester: 1/30/17 - 5/20/17 6th Semester: 5/30/17 - 9/16/17 7th Semester: 9/25/17 - 1/20/18 Holiday Break: 12/17/17 - 1/2/18 8th Semester: 1/29/18 - 5/19/18 9th Semester: 5/29/18 - 9/15/18

BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS IN ACTING FOR FILM

BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS IN PHOTOGRAPHY

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

CODE OF CONDUCT Freedom of Speech 5. Academic honesty extends to all school

projects, productions and exercises both on 1. NYFA is a creative and artistic environment. and off campus. Students must maintain a While we embrace each student’s right to high standard of honesty in declarations free speech and expression, any form of and descriptions of these projects to faculty, discrimination based on, but not limited to, administration and staff, as well as other age, race, religion, gender or sexual agencies and vendors. Deliberate dishonesty and misconduct are considered serious orientation toward any NYFA instructor, staff member or student will not be offenses and will be subject to a Disciplinary tolerated. Any student who fails to comply Review Hearing at which penalties will be with this rule will be subject to suspension imposed. or expulsion. 2. NYFA expects all students, faculty and staff 6. Students are prohibited from paying or to conduct themselves in a considerate soliciting financial compensation from other students for services such as, but not manner. Students who disrupt classes may face disciplinary action. Behaving in an limited to, production, pre-production, post- aggressive, harassing or threatening manner production and script consultation. to other students, faculty or staff can also Students are expected to complete their own result in suspension or expulsion. This work, unless otherwise approved by the includes unauthorized use of cell phones instructor.

and/or other electronic devices during class Campus Safety & Security hours. 3. Slander, threatening remarks, sexual harassment, threats of violence and any 7. Entering and exiting the building at 420 physical violence to any NYFA instructor, Lincoln Rd. will require the presentation of staff member or student will not be student identification. Students must be tolerated. Any student who fails to comply courteous and patient with all building with this rule will be subject to suspension personnel, security guards and staff. If a or expulsion. student feels a member of the building staff has treated him/her unfairly, the student

Creative & Academic Integrity can file an incident report with the

Department Chairs of NYFA for assistance. 4. NYFA expects all students to be responsible individuals who insist on high standards of 8. Students are required to carry a valid photo honesty, personal conduct and creative ID (Driver’s License, Official State integrity. All incidents of plagiarism, Identification Card, Passport) as well as cheating, deliberate hindrance of other their NYFA Student ID Badge while on the premises of New York Film Academy South students’ work or other forms of dishonesty and misconduct are considered serious Beach and any official student functions or offenses and will be subject to a Disciplinary events. Failure to do so may result in the Review Hearing at which penalties will be student being removed from such premises Imposed at NYFA’s discretion. New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

Personal Care 13 9. Students are responsible for their NYFA student ID Badges. Any student caught 14. All students are required to maintain healthy tampering with their badge, willingly assisting and diligent personal hygiene. Regular another individual with attempting false or bathing, wearing of deodorant and frequent unauthorized entry to 420 Lincoln Rd. and laundering of clothes are necessary to ensure NYFA property will be subject to immediate a healthy and comfortable learning disciplinary or legal action, including environment. Repeated complaints and suspension or expulsion. warnings about poor hygiene may warrant a disciplinary hearing. 10. Students found misusing or vandalizing property owned by NYFA or any of Technology

neighboring businesses will be subject to fines and/or immediate suspension. 15. Students are strictly forbidden from tapping any Ethernet lines of NYFA or adjoining Drug & Alcohol-Free Campus businesses for their personal computers. Our network holds confidential information and 11. Under no circumstances are drugs or alcohol tapping into it poses a security risk. Any allowed on New York Film Academy student who fails to comply with this rule will premises. Anyone found to possess alcohol or be subject to suspension and expulsion. any illegal substance will be subject to expulsion. Any student found associating with 16. Illegal downloading -- via torrents or other file a student in possession of alcohol or illegal sharing sites -- is not permitted using NYFA’s substances will be subject to suspension and computers or NYFA’s wireless/wired will meet with the Director to determine if networks. Anyone caught doing this will be he/she will be expelled. subject to immediate disciplinary action by the New York Film Academy. Furthermore, On-Campus Conduct anyone caught downloading illegal material may be subject to legal action under federal 12. Students must remain quiet in the hallways law. and general areas on campus and surrounding NYFA and must not approach or enter 17. Students are prohibited from recording class neighboring offices. Students may not, under lectures without written permission from the

any circumstances, solicit neighboring offices Director of NYFA.

for employment.

18. Cyber-bullying against any NYFA student,

13. Students are responsible for the conduct of all staff member or faculty is strictly prohibited.

guests brought to the premises, facilities, Additionally, students are reminded that they

productions or events of NYFA. Students may represent NYFA during production

be held liable for any Code of Conduct workshops, off-campus shoots or collaborations. Any form of cyber-bullying violations committed by such guests and may face disciplinary action for all violations that towards individuals working with NYFA under any capacity, is also prohibited. occur.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

14 Cyber-bullying encompasses all use of Any student found in violation of this code will technology to harm or harass others. This be subject to expulsion or criminal prosecution. includes, but is not limited to: • unwanted contact or harassment via social 21. Students are only permitted the use of prop • media, emails, phone calls or text messages guns or prop weapons on green-lit productions, • threatening emails, instant messages, calls with the express approval of the instructor and or Department Chair, and when licensed by the

• text messages local permitting office.

• fraud or identity theft: impersonating

• someone or creating a false identity 22. Any student or crewmember participating in the

• hacking someone’s email or social media filming of a project featuring the unauthorized account • use of a prop gun is subject to expulsion. Any • spreading false or private information student or crewmember participating in the • creating websites to rate peers or faculty/staff filming of a weekend project featuring the use • or to mock or harass someone or display of a real firearm in any setting is • sharing photos or videos online or via text subject to expulsion and will be reported to the • without the subject’s consent authorities for further investigation. Any Students found engaging in cyber-bullying will recorded media that is found to be in violation

face a thorough investigation and disciplinary of the preceding rules may be confiscated and

action, up to and including expulsion. destroyed.

23. To maintain on-set safety, students who wish to Production & Post-Production film stunt or action sequences must first

complete the Action Sequence Authorization 19. Students must follow all Editing and Post- Request Form and submit the following Production Department guidelines for documentation to the Director: proper conduct in the editing facilities and • Shooting script for using all NYFA editing and post- Storyboards production equipment. The guidelines range •

from how to correctly handle the equipment • Shot lists • Proof of outside production insurance for to the times editing is permitted. Students must follow similar guidelines with regard to • the action sequence, with worker’s compensation filmmaking equipment. These guidelines will Once approval has been granted and all the be outlined on the first day of classes. Failure to comply with these guidelines will result in requisite paperwork has been cleared, students disciplinary measures, including temporary may film their stunt or action sequence under loss of editing privileges, suspension of the supervision of an outside stunt coordinator. equipment checkout privileges or removal from final film screenings. 24. Students are responsible for and NYFA props and wardrobe at all times while in their 20. Firearms, pellet guns, ammunition, knives, possession. If NYFA props or wardrobe are martial arts weapons, dangerous chemicals, damaged in any way, students are responsible

fireworks or explosives of any kind for the replacement value dictated by NYFA.

(regardless of license) are never permitted on NYFA property.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

25. Students must read and adhere to all rules in the Student Handbook and Production Handbook while on campus and/or at any Academy-sponsored events. • Students may not climb onto building rooftops or film at any unsanctioned areas of the campus. In order to film in classrooms, students must check for classroom availability at the front desk. For details on booking classrooms for shoots, please refer to the Student Handbook. • Students may not scream or make any other disruptive noise for any reason.

Actionable Conduct

26. Students who fail to abide by the NYFA Code of Conduct and Institutional Policies, as outlined in the Course Catalog and Student Handbook, may be subject to disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion from NYFA.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

REGISTRATION & COURSE SCHEDULES

REGISTRATION STUDENT ID BADGES

Two weeks prior to the program start date, students Students will be issued an ID badge with their will be emailed registration details, including date, name and photograph. Badges must be presented to time and location. Registration takes place on the Security Staff when entering the building (420 first day of classes for undergraduate and graduate Lincoln Rd.) and worn at all times when in the programs. building. Security may not allow students into the building without a ID Badge. When students arrive to register, they receive a checklist of documents that must be submitted Students will have their photo taken at the during the registration process. If a student has not beginning of their program. If badges are lost or paid his/her tuition or has not been cleared for stolen, a $30.00 fee will be assessed upon reissue. Financial Aid, he/she must do so at the Registrar’s Office. Students cannot register until tuition NYFA EMAIL ACCOUNTS payment has cleared.

International Students must bring their PP & I-20 After students are registered, they will receive a Certificate to New York Film Academy and check printout with their new NYFA email address and in with the I-20 upon arrival in the U.S password. If this information is lost, students can contact [email protected] to retrieve it. Lastly, students must fill out an Enrollment NYFA emails are to be used only for Agreement and a Registration Packet. The school/industry related business and do not expire Registration Packet includes the FERPA after students’ completion of programs. notification and release forms, visual/audio image release form, Ethnic information form and Student COURSE SCHEDULE Information Form. Students will receive a copy of their course schedule All students must submit an official transcript must at orientation each semester. Questions regarding to the Registrar's Office or fill out a waiver form course schedules should be directed to Department stating he/she will not receive proof of program Chairs or Coordinators. completion until an official transcript is received. After this paperwork is complete, the student’s account is enrolled at the Registrar’s Office. Any missing documents may result in a hold on that student’s account.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

TRANSPORTATION & HOUSING

HOUSING INFORMATION PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

NYFA does not provide dormitory facilities or on- Students who commute to 420 Lincoln Rd. can view campus housing, and has no responsibility to find the maps and public transportation timetables at this housing for students. As a courtesy, off- campus link. housing information is provided by the New York Film Academy. The New York Film Academy does http://www.metroseeker.com/miami/getting - not inspect, endorse or assume any responsibility around/public-transit for any properties, accommodations or other housing options or websites. BICYCLES

Students should expect a range of costs in housing (on average between $1000-$2000 per month for a Please note that students lock their bicycles outside at studio or one-bedroom), depending on the location, their own risk, and the New York Film Academy is size, apartment complex, amenities and length of not responsible for loss or theft. Bicycles are not stay. permitted in the building.

Students are strongly advised to find suitable housing prior to their program start date. The landlord or management company will often request proof of income, credit, insurance and other documents. Prior to making final arrangements or signing a rental agreement, students should thoroughly investigate and inspect any properties, accommodations or other housing options and review any legal document prior to entering a contractual agreement. NYFA bears no responsibility in any lease or rental agreements signed by students.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

LIBRARY, FACILITIES & EQUIPMENT

LIBRARY RESOURCES POST-PRODUCTION & COMPUTING Students have access to the NYFA Library during all hours of operation. The Library includes the Post-production facilities include Avid stations. following resources: Students have access to 18+ computers with • WiFi Internet industry-standard software for projects. • Access to the online databases • Books, periodicals and screenplays COMPUTER AREAS • DVD/Blu-ray movie collection

Below are the Library’s circulation guidelines: Final Draft, Avid Media Composer

• Library materials are available to students and EQUIPMENT ROOM staff Monday–Thursday from 10:00 AM– 10:00 PM, Friday from 10:00AM – 6:00 PM Available to our students is equipment Library books may not be taken off NYFA • corresponding to the course requirements. The premises without proper checkout. camera options include: Arri-S (16mm), Canon 5D

• DVDs/Blu-rays may also be viewed during DSLR, Panasonic HMC150, Arri SR3 16mm (super school hours in the library. 16mm), RED Scarlet-X, RED Epic-MX, and Arriflex • Current students must present their Student BL 535 (35mm). These cameras have appropriate ID badge or driver’s license/passport when accessory packages including: lenses, assistant checking out library materials camera kits, shoulder rigs, dollies, and jibs. There • Course reserve books are available as “Library are several grip & electric options ranging from Use Only” items . basic three-point lighting kits to complete 1-ton • Course reserve DVDs/Blu- rays are available lighting packages. Audio options include field as “Library Use Only” items. recorders and mixers, as well as shotgun and lavaliere microphones. CLASSROOMS

New York Film Academy South Beach has 7 classrooms of varying size. Each room is equipped with a Blu-ray player, whiteboard and video monitor.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

STUDENT RESOURCES

VETERAN AFFAIRS The International Student Office does not issue F-1 NYFA’s Veterans Services Office assists veterans in visas, nor does it provide visa- expediting services, as their transition to civilian and campus life. These only the U.S. embassy has this power. Please apply services include: early enough to allow time for the visa process in your country. • Simplifying VA educational benefits assisting with post-deployment transition issues If you are in the U.S. on a different type of visa, please contact the International Student Office with • Evaluating students’ academic records or military/educational training specifics about your situation. Some other visa statuses do allow study, such as H-4 and other • Aiding in choosing the program that best dependent visas. suits individuals’ personal and professional

goals NYFA’s International Student Office advises all • Giving referrals to community-based international students on matters pertaining to: organizations and the Department of obtaining visas, maintenance of immigration status, Veterans Affairs legal work authorization and other issues relating to

non-U.S. citizens living in the U.S. INTERNATIONAL STUDENT OFFICE The international office is responsible for reporting to SEVIS (Student Exchange and Visitor Interactive System) whether or not an F-1 visa student is The New York Film Academy is authorized under attending school each term. In this way, we vouch federal law to admit non-immigrant alien students. for the status of each student to the U.S. In accordance with U.S. Department of Homeland Department of Homeland Security. Security regulations, the International Student Office may issue an I-20 Certificate of Eligibility for F-1 For further information regarding student visas, student status Form, to students who have been fully please email [email protected] or call the admitted to the school. There is a $150 International main office number and ask to speak with the Student fee per student, per program. International Student Advisor.

To obtain an F-1 student visa, you must schedule an appointment for a visa interview at a consular section of a U.S. embassy in your country of citizenship or residence and provide all necessary documentation, including evidence of available funds to pay for tuition and living costs for the duration of your study. More details can be found at these U.S. government sources: http://travel.state.gov/visa/temp/types/types _1268.html http://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/ New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

INDUSTRY OUTREACH & We assist students in the development of their personal and professional goals and create action PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT plans to help them achieve those goals. The department aids students as they design their The Industry Outreach and Professional résumés, cover letters, and other business Development Department (IOPD) is a resource for correspondence. We work with students on their current students and alumni to gain the real world presentation skills to prepare them for interviews and knowledge and know-how to prepare for and expand meetings. IOPD works with industry experts to their professional experiences outside of NYFA. expand students’ professional experiences. The Industry Outreach and Professional A strong foundation and understanding of the Development Department is a resource to aid business and the skills needed to compete allow our students. The school makes no representation that students to thrive throughout their academic any of its programs will result in employment or in a experience and as they venture into their career or vocation in any particular area of professional careers. filmmaking.

The Academy's main goal is to enrich its students as visual storytellers by helping them realize their

personal artistic visions, as stated in the mission

statement.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

ACADEMIC RESOURCES

ACADEMIC ADVISING LIBRARY RESOURCES

Students in one-year or two-year certificate program, Students have access to the NYFA Library during all and all degree-granting programs are advised on their hours of operation. The Library includes the academic progress through the Office of the Dean of following resources: Students and the Office of the Dean for Academic • Full-text online databases Advising. Students are also assigned a Faculty • Books, periodicals and screenplays Mentor by their Department Chair to monitor their • DVD/Blu-ray movie collection artistic development. Below are the Library’s circulation guidelines: LEARNING DIFFERENCES • Library materials are available to students and staff Monday–Thursday from 9:00 AM– 10:00 PM and Friday from 10:00 AM–6:00 Students applying to NYFA with identified learning PM differences may have been eligible for special services • Library materials may not be taken out of the provided by their previous public or private school library without proper checkout. known as Individualized Education Programs (IEP). DVDs/Blu-rays may be viewed during Students with an established IEP are encouraged to school hours in the student lounge or on a meet with the Dean of Students prior to or during school computer their first week of classes to evaluate special Current students must present their Student accommodations that may be necessary. This review • ID badge or driver’s license/passport when may result in any of the following special checking out library materials accommodations designed to enhance the learning Students may check out two DVDs/Blu-rays process: • for a three-day period • Extended testing periods • Note taking assistance • Course reserve books and DVD/Blurays are • Specialized one-on-one tutoring available as “Library Use Only” items or as three-day checkout items. LEARNING RESOURCES DIRECTOR

The Learning Resources Director is available to students for assistance in locating all research resources, including library holding, Internet and other online services. On the first day of class, the Learning Resources Director will conduct an orientation on all research techniques and strategies to access the learning resources required to successfully complete each student’s educational program. New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

LIBRARY FINE POLICY

All items borrowed from the Library must be returned on time. If a student has an unpaid fine or overdue item, a hold will be placed on his/her account. Students on hold cannot receive certificates of completion, diplomas or gain access to transcripts.

The Fine Policy is as follows: • $10.00 per item, per day past due • If an item is 21 or more days past due, the student will be billed $20.00 or the replacement cost of the item, whichever is higher, in addition to a non-refundable $10.00 processing fee.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

TUITION & COSTS

All tuition costs are listed in USD and are subject to BACHELOR OF FINE ARTS change. Please check the NYFA website for any updates in tuition, equipment or lab fees. Students will also incur additional expenses on their own Filmmaking: productions. This varies depending on the scale of Tuition: $ 12,666 per semester. the projects, how much film they shoot or how much Equipment Fee: $ 1,334 per semester. of their work they choose to print. Total Tuition: $ 126,000. Total tuition costs are based on the prescribed length of the program. Students who receive transfer credit Acting for Film: for previous academic work or training may be Tuition: $ 11,812.50 per semester. entitled to a reduction in tuition. This reduction in Total Tuition: $ 94,500. tuition would be on a pro-rated, per credit unit basis, depending on the number and type of units Photography: transferred, and the course(s)/semester(s) to which Tuition: $ 12,000 per semester. they apply. Equipment & Lab Fee: $ 750 per semester. Total Tuition: $ 102,000. Students have the option to pay tuition and institutional fees & charges in full, after the student has been accepted and enrolled. Tuition is due 30 days prior to the first day of class.

MASTER OF FINE ARTS

Filmmaking: Tuition: $ 12,666 per semester. Equipment Fee: $ 1,334 per semester.

Total Tuition : $84,000

Acting for Film: Tuition: $ 15,750 per semester. Total Tuition: $ 63,000

Photography: Tuition: $16,000 per semester Equipment Fee: $ 1,000 per semester.

Total Tuition: $ 68,000.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

BFA FILMMAKING EXPECTED SUPPLIES COSTS Non-Sync Film Stock SEMESTER ONE

• Ten Rolls Color Film Stock Mise-En-Scene Film • Processing

• Food & Craft Services • Two Rolls Color Film • Student Film Permits • Processing • Props/Wardrobe • Food & Craft Services • Location Fee • Student Film Permits • DVD • Props/Wardrobe • Transportation Location Fees • • DVD • Transportation SEMESTER ONE ADDITIONAL COSTS

Continuity Film

Four Rolls Color Film • Hard drive (G Drive Mini 1TB) • • Processing • Food & Craft Services SEMESTER TWO • Student Film Permits POV • Props/Wardrobe • Location Fees • Eight Rolls Color Film Stock Processing • DVD • DVD

• Transportation • Food & Craft Services

• Student Film Permits Music Video • Props/Wardrobe

• Transportation • Four Rolls Color Film • Location Fees • Processing • DVD Chekhovian • Food & Craft Services • Student Film Permits • Eight Rolls Color Film Stock • Props/Wardrobe • Processing

• Location Fees • DVD

• Transportation • Food & Craft Services

• Student Film Permits • Props/Wardrobe • Transportation • Location Fees

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

25 Digital Dialogue – 2 Day Production SEMESTER SIX Synchronous Sound Production Workshop III

• Food & Craft Services

• Student Film Permits • Props/Wardrobe • Props/Wardrobe • Location Fees • Location Fees • Film Expendables (tape, gels, etc.) • Transportation • Student Film Permits • Food & Craft Services SEMESTER THREE • 1 terabyte hard drive (G Drive Mini 1TB) Synchronous Sound Production Workshop • Lift Gate Truck Rental + Insurance I/Drawing • Transportation

• 2 Hard drives (G Drive Mini 1TB) SEMESTER SEVEN Props/Wardrobe • Director’s Craft IIIB (Music Video/ • Location Fee Commercial) • Film Expendables (tape, gels, etc.) • Drawing Kit • Props/Wardrobe • Transportation • Location Fees

• Film Expendables (tape, gels, etc.)

SEMESTER FOUR Student Film Permits • Intermediate Film (Digital) • Food & Craft Services • 1 terabyte hard drive (G Drive Mini 1TB) • Props/Wardrobe • Lift Gate Truck Rental + Insurance • Location Fees • Transportation • Film Expendables (tape, gels, etc.) • Student Film Permits SEMESTER EIGHT

• Food & Craft Services Short Thesis (Digital) - 10 day Production • 1 terabyte hard drive (G Drive Mini 1TB)

• Transportation • 2x 1 terabyte hard drive (G Drive Mini 1TB)

• Props/Wardrobe SEMESTER FIVE • Location Fees Cinematography III • Film Expendables (tape, gels, etc.) • Student Film Permits • 1 terabyte hard drive (G Drive Mini 1TB) • Food & Craft Services • Transportation • Lift Gate Truck Rental + Insurance

• Transportation

YEARLY TOTAL EXPECTED SUPPLIED COSTS

BFA Year One Options A & B: $6,000.00 • • BFA Year Two Options A & B: $4,450.00 • BFA Year Three Options A & B: $7,750.00 New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

MFA FILMMAKING EXPECTED SUPPLIES COST

SEMESTER ONE • Student Film Permits Mise-En-Scene Film • Props/Wardrobe Location Fees • • Two Rolls Color Film Stock • DVD • Processing • Transportation • Food & Craft Services POV • Student Film Permits

• Props/Wardrobe Eight Rolls Color Film Stock • Location Fees • Processing • DVD • DVD • Transportation • • Food & Craft Services

Continuity Film • Student Film Permits • Props/Wardrobe • Four Rolls Color Film Stock • Transportation Location Fees • Processing • • Food & Craft Services Digital Dialogue (Digital) - 2 day Production • Student Film Permits

• Props/Wardrobe Food & Craft Services • Location Fees • Student Film Permits • DVD • Props/Wardrobe • Transportation • • Location Fees Music Video • Transportation

• Four Rolls Color Film Stock SEMESTER ONE • Processing ADDITIONAL COSTS • DVD • Food & Craft Services • Hard drive (G Drive Mini 1TB) • Student Film Permits

• Props/Wardrobe • Location Fees SEMESTER TWO • Transportation Synchronous Sound Production Workshops & 35mm

Non-Sync Film • 2 Hard drives (G Drive Mini 1TB) • Props/Wardrobe • Ten Rolls Color Film Stock • Location Fees • Processing: • Food & Craft Services New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

27 • Film Expendables (tape, gels, etc.) SEMESTER FIVE • Transportation (THESIS OPTION B)

SEMESTER THREE • Additional Pre-Production Hard drive (G Intermediate Film (Digital) Drive Mini 1TB) • Transportation

• Props/Wardrobe • Location Fees SEMESTER SIX • Film Expendables (tape, gels, etc.) (THESIS OPTION A) • Student Film Permits • Food & Craft Services Thesis Post Production 1 terabyte hard drive (G Drive Mini 1TB) • • Transportation • Backup Hard drives (G Drive Mini 1TB)

• Transportation SEMESTER FOUR (THESIS OPTION A) SEMESTER SIX (THESIS OPTION B) • Pre-Production Hard drive (G Drive Mini 1TB) Transportation • Thesis Pre-Production

SEMESTER FOUR • Hard drive for Production Paperwork (G (THESIS OPTION B) Drive Mini 1TB) • Transportation

• Pre-Production Hard drive (G Drive Mini 1TB) • Transportation SEMESTER SEVEN (THESIS OPTION B) SEMESTER FIVE Master’s Feature Thesis (Digital) – 18 day (THESIS OPTION A) Production

Master’s Short Thesis (Digital) - 10 day • Production • 4x 1 terabyte hard drives (G Drive Mini 1TB) • Props/Wardrobe

• 2x 1 terabyte hard drives (G Drive Mini 1TB) • Location Fees • Props/Wardrobe • Film Expendables (tape, gels, etc.) • Location Fees • Student Film Permits • Film Expendables (tape, gels, etc.) • Food & Craft Services • Student Film Permits • Lift Gate Truck Rental + Insurance • Transportation • Food & Craft Services • Lift Gate Truck Rental + Insurance • Transportation

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

YEARLY TOTAL EXPECTED SUPPLIES COST:

MFA Year One: Options A & B - $6,000.00 MFA YEAR TWO: OPTION A - $6,600.00 MFA YEAR THREE: OPTION B - $16,825.00

EXPECTED SUPPLIES COSTS

The chart below offers a comparison of costs for the expected supplies for the BFA and MFA Film Programs. New York Film Academy (NYFA) offers these supplies to students at a discounted cost allowing the student to finance these supplies through their Financial Aid funding, Veterans Educational payments or through quarterly payment options. Students have the option to “opt out” of the New York Film Academy finance option by purchasing these supplies independently. If you have chosen to purchase these supplies independently and not from New York Film Academy, please sign the form and return it to the billing office during your registration appointment.

SUPPLIES HARD COSTS

Item NYFA Price Retail Price DVD $1 $2 G Drive Mini 1 TB Hard Drive $195 $239

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

REFUND POLICY

Should a student’s enrollment be terminated or Students who officially withdraw after the cancelled for any reason, all refunds will be made first 5 days of the semester and on or before according to the following refund schedule: the 10th day after the beginning of the semester will receive a 75% refund of tuition 1 Cancellation can be made in person, by paid, plus all refundable fees. Students who electronic mail, by Certified Mail or by officially withdraw from the College after the termination. To request a refund, a 10th day of the semester and on or before the Withdrawal Refund Request Form must be 15th day of the semester will receive a 50%

submitted to the Registrar’s office. refund of tuition paid plus all refundable fees.

th There will be no refund after the 15 day of 2 All monies will be refunded if the school does the semester. not accept the applicant or if the student cancels within three (3) business days after 6. Refunds will be made within 30 days of signing the enrollment agreement and making termination of students’ enrollment or initial payment. receipt of Cancellation Notice from student.

3 Cancellation after the third (3rd) Business Day, Termination Date: In calculating the refund due to a but before the first class, results in a refund of student, the last date of actual attendance by the all monies paid, with the exception of the student is used in the calculation. registration fee.

GROUNDS FOR TERMINATION 4 Partial withdrawal (course) – A student who

officially drops a course during the drop/add A student’s enrollment can be terminated at the period of the semester (first 5 days) will be discretion of the institution for insufficient refunded 100% of the tuition paid and all academic progress, non-payment of academic costs, refundable fees. After the drop/add period of or failure to comply with rules and policies the semester, no refunds are issued for partial established by the institution as outlined in the withdrawals. catalog and this agreement.

5 Withdrawal from the College (Full semester) – A student who officially withdraws before the first day of class from all courses will be refunded the total tuition, plus refundable fees. Students who officially withdraw from all courses during the drop/add period (first 5 days) of the semester will receive a 100%

refund plus all refundable fees.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

FINANCIAL AID

NYFA offers a variety of financial aid options, • An explanation of the various programs in including grant and loan opportunities. Financial aid the student aid package is designed to provide assistance to students whose • What portion of the financial aid received personal and family resources cannot meet the full must be repaid, and what portion is grant cost of education. Therefore, financial aid is only aid supplementary to the family’s own best efforts to • If aid is a loan – interest rates, the total contribute to the student’s education. amount to be repaid, payback procedures, length of repayment period time you have If a student obtains a loan to pay for an to repay the loan and when the repayment is educational program, the student will have the to begin responsibility to repay the full amount of the loan plus interest, less the amount of any It is the student’s responsibility to: refund, and that, if the student has received federal student financial aid funds, the • Review all information about school student is entitled to a refund of the moneys programs prior to enrollment not paid from federal student financial aid • Complete all application forms in a timely, program funds. accurate manner and send to the correct address Students have the right to know: • Accurately complete application for student aid (errors can result in delays of receipt of • What financial aid is available, including financial aid, and intentional reporting of information on all Federal and State false information on any application forms programs for federal financial aid is a violation of law • The deadlines for submitting applications for and considered a criminal offense subject to each of the financial aid programs available penalties under the US Criminal Code). • The cost of attending the programs and the • Return all additional information, school’s refund policy verification, corrections and/or new • The criteria used by the institution to select the information requested by the Financial Aid financial aid recipients Office • How the school determines financial need (i.e. • Read and understand all the forms they are costs for tuition, books and living expenses) required to sign and keep copies for their • What resources (outside scholarships and other own records financial aid, etc.) are considered in the • Accept responsibility for all signed agreements calculating need • If aid is a loan – notify the lender of any • How much financial need been met change in name, address or enrollment status.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

• Know and comply with the deadlines for 5. Additional financial options: other loan application or reapplication for aid options include the Parent PLUS Loan for • Know and comply with NYFA’s refund policy Undergraduate Students (PLUS), Graduate procedure PLUS Loan for Graduate Students and • Know and comply with NYFA’s Satisfactory alternative loans. PLUS Loan MPN and Academic Progress Policy Credit Check forms can be completed at www.studentloans.gov.

FINANCIAL NEED FEDERAL EDUCATION LOANS Students applying for financial aid are required to file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid New York Film Academy participates in the Federal (FAFSA) in order to be eligible for all financial aid Direct student loan program. The federal loan options except for selected scholarships. The FAFSA program offers a secure, government-regulated and determines Expected Family Contribution (EFC) reasonably affordable way to invest in yourself and

your goal of a higher education. Student Loans are based on data supplied on the form. Financial need is the difference between the cost of attendance at financial obligations that must be repaid. While NYFA and the EFC determined from the FAFSA. some loans are based on financial need, there are After financial need is determined, an aid package to loan programs available to all federally-eligible assist with that financial need is developed for each students -- regardless of income. Keep in mind that student. The aid package is contingent upon when you should not borrow more than you need or can the student applies, when the student is accepted, comfortably repay after leaving school. We college resources available and funding levels set by recommend using the Loan Repayment Calculator the Federal and State governments. as a guide to what your monthly payments will be once you enter repayment.

HOW TO APPLY FEDERAL DIRECT LOAN 1 Complete the FAFSA by going online to PROGRAM www.fafsa.ed.gov. 2 Submit requested verification documentation The Federal Direct Stafford Loan program provides in a timely manner. Selected applicants may lending options for students as well as supplemental be asked to submit signed copies of their Prior PLUS loans for graduate students or parents of Year Federal Income Tax Return(s) and other dependent undergraduate students. Direct loans verification forms to NYFA for review. offer a variety of deferment and repayment options, Financial aid cannot be disbursed without and are financed directly by the U.S. Department of these documents. Education so there’s no need to choose a lender. 3 Apply for Student Loans. To apply for a Direct Please refer to the Annual Loan Limit Chart for the Student Loan, students must complete a maximum amount students may borrow in Federal Master Promissory Note (MPN) and Entrance Stafford Loans per academic year. Interview. The MPN and Entrance Interview are available online at www.studentloans.gov. Returning students who want to reapply for Direct Loans need to file the FAFSA annually.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

SUBSIDIZED STAFFORD LOANS To apply for a Federal Direct Stafford Loan:

• Complete the free application for Federal A subsidized loan is awarded on the basis of financial Student Aid (FAFSA) need to undergraduate students only. The U.S. • Submit any documentation requested by the government pays (or subsidizes) the interest on this Office of Financial Aid. loan while you are enrolled at least half-time, and • When the student’s financial aid file is until the end of the six- month grace period. The complete, an award package will be interest rate for the 2014-15 federal fiscal year is a generated and sent to your home address. fixed interest rate of 4.66 % for the life of the loan.

To accept the loan offer on your award package LOAN ORIGINATION FEE (you may accept a lesser amount than what is offered: The Direct PLUS loan is available to parents of • Complete the Master Promissory Note (MPN) dependent students and require a credit check. The for Direct Stafford Loans. student must be enrolled at least half-time (six credits • Complete the Online Entrance Counseling. per semester) and be meeting SAP standards to be eligible for this loan. The maximum that may be To remain eligible for a Federal Direct Stafford borrowed per year is the difference between the cost Loan: of attendance for that year and the other financial • Complete the free application for Federal aid awarded to the student for that year. The interest • Student Aid (FAFSA) for all subsequent rate is fixed. If the parent is denied for a PLUS loan, award years

the dependent student may borrow an additional • Submit any documentation requested by the Direct Unsubsidized Student Loan in his or her own Office of Financial Aid name. Parents should go to www.studentloans.gov to • Avoid bankruptcy apply. • Maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress • Remain in satisfactory repayment status on UNSUBSIDIZED STAFFORD prior loans

LOANS • Complete online or in in-person exit counseling 30 days prior to completing your program of study. Students are notified of An Unsubsidized Stafford Loan is awarded regardless this requirement with follow-up reminder of need. You are charged interest on the amount communications to ensure completion of disbursed from the date of disbursement and you the Exit Counseling requirement. may either make or defer interest payments while you are in school and during the six-month grace period. If you defer your interest payments, the accumulated interest will be capitalized, or added, to the principal of your loan when you enter repayment. All future interest charges are then based on the new, higher principal amount. The interest rate for the 2014-15 federal fiscal year is 4.66 % for undergraduate borrowers and 6.71 % for students enrolled in a graduate program.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

FEDERAL DIRECT For more information on the Parent PLUS Loan PLUS LOAN PROGRAM and credit worthiness, please visit the following website: www.studentloans.gov.

The Direct PLUS Loan is a credit-based government- GRADUATE PLUS LOAN FOR insured loan made to graduate students or parents of GRADUATE STUDENTS dependent undergraduate students. The PLUS loan is a non-need based loan, and eligibility is based on the credit history of the borrower. The maximum This program is only for those students in graduate amount borrowed cannot exceed the student’s cost or doctorate level programs, and is meant to of education minus any other financial assistance supplement the funding from the Stafford Loan (including scholarships, work-study awards and the program. You must be enrolled at least half-time in Federal Stafford Loan.) PLUS Loans do not have an a degree-granting program and taking courses that interest subsidy -- interest begins accruing on the lead to your degree. Students will receive an amount disbursed, from the date of disbursement. automatic deferment on the principal amount of PLUS loans are offered to the parents of dependent the loan while enrolled at least half-time. You are undergraduate students through the Parent PLUS charged interest from the time the loan is disbursed program. Graduate students may apply for a graduate and may either make or defer interest payments PLUS loan using the graduate PLUS program. while you are in school and during periods of deferment. If you defer your interest payments, the Interest Rate: accumulated interest will be capitalized, or added, The Direct PLUS Loan has a fixed interest rate of to the principal of your loan when you enter 7.21 % for the life of the loan. repayment. All future interest charges are then based on the new, higher principal amount. Loan Fee: There is a 4.288% Original fee on the PLUS Loan. Unlike the Stafford Loan, there is no grace period for the Graduate PLUS Loan; you will enter PARENT (PLUS) FOR PARENTS repayment immediately after you graduate, withdraw or drop to less than half- time enrollment. OF DEPENDENT

UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS For more information on the Graduate PLUS Loan and credit worthiness, please visit: Parents of dependent undergraduate students can www.studentloans.gov. take out a Parent PLUS Loan to supplement their student’s aid package. Parents may To apply for a Federal Direct Parent PLUS or choose to defer payments on a PLUS Loan until six Graduate PLUS Loan: months after the date the student ceases to be enrolled at least half-time and to pay the accruing • Complete the free application for Federal interest monthly or quarterly, or to defer interest Student Aid (FAFSA) payments and allow interest to be capitalized quarterly. A parent also has the option to choose not to defer payment, and can begin repaying both principal and interest while student is in school.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

OTHER TYPES OF FINANCIAL Completed application, essay and documentation should be submitted to the Financial Aid Office. ASSISTANCE Completed applications are reviewed and students are notified within four weeks of their funding Private Scholarship Sources: awards. For more information, students may contact Brian Koplow via email: While it takes some effort to find these competitive [email protected] private sources, it is well worth the time to locate additional funds. High school guidance counselors, FINANCIAL AID PROBATION public libraries, the Office of Financial Aid and websites for scholarship searches are the best sources Financial Aid Probation is not the same as for students to locate other unique opportunities for Academic Probation. After being placed on financial assistance. Financial Aid Probation, the student will receive

federal financial aid for the subsequent semester of Veterans Administration Benefits: enrollment, but must meet all SAP requirements at

the end of the semester. If he/she does not do so, Veterans Educational Benefits are available for federal financial aid eligibility will be suspended. prospective students as well as children and spouses While on Financial Aid Probation, no appeal or of veterans who have died or were totally disabled in reapplication for aid is necessary. the service. For more information, students should contact the Veterans Administration at 1-888-442-

4551 or Office of Financial Aid. The Office of FINANCIAL AID SUSPENSION

Financial Aid notifies the Veterans Administration if a student receiving Veteran Benefits does not meet Financial Aid Suspension is not the same as the academic progress requirements after serving a Academic Suspension. The student losses eligibility probationary period of two semesters. for Federal Student Aid until he/she

successfully completes one term at NYFA. If the NYFA Need-Based Tuition Discount: student was experiencing extenuating medical or emotional circumstances that negatively impacted NYFA is pleased to offer a need-based tuition his/her academic performance, the student may discount to qualifying students. This is an appeal the suspension. institutional-based tuition discount (up to $15,000.00) to help pay for a portion of the student’s cost of education in all NYFA programs.

To qualify for this aid, candidates must show a credible need through documentation (i.e. personal income tax or parents’ income tax statement), translated to English and converted to US dollars (if necessary). Additionally, applicants must submit an essay describing accomplishments and justification for consideration of NYFA’s Tuition Discount.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

FINANCIAL AID POLICIES Permission from the student may be required to issue the post-withdrawal disbursement. Written notification will be provided to the student and Disbursement Of Financial Aid: must be signed and returned within a specified period of time in order to credit the funds to a Federal, state and school grants for each semester are student’s account. NYFA must return the amount deducted approximately two weeks after the of funds for which it is responsible no later than 45 add/drop period of each semester, as long as the days after the date of the student’s withdrawal. student has complied with all financial aid requirements. First-time borrowers in the Federal Refunds are allocated in the following order: Direct Loan Program will have their loan funding disbursed 30 days after the beginning of classes. • Unsubsidized Direct Student Loans (other than PLUS loans) Direct Loan/Direct PLUS recipients should deduct • Direct Subsidized Student Loans origination and rebate fees from loan approval • Federal Perkins Loans amounts. Direct Loan/Direct PLUS proceeds are • Direct PLUS loans sent directly to the school. Students are notified • Federal Pell Grants for which a return of when loans have been credited and have the option funds is required to cancel all or a portion of those loans. Students • Academic Competitiveness Grant with outside scholarships should notify the Office of • National SMART Grant Financial Aid by sending a copy of the award letter. • Federal Supplemental Opportunity Grants The amount must be included as a financial aid for which a return of funds is required resource and may affect the student’s eligibility for • Other assistance under this Title for which previously awarded aid. return of funds is required (e.g. LEAP)

Financial Aid Refund Policy:

In accordance with the 1998 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 668.22, the Office of Financial Aid is required by federal statutes to determine how much federal financial aid was earned by students who withdraw, drop out, have been dismissed or have taken a leave of absence prior to completing 60% of the program. If a student earned less aid than was disbursed, the institution would be required to return a portion of the funds and the student may also be required to return a portion of the funds. If a student earned more aid than was disbursed to him/her, the institution would owe the student a post- withdrawal disbursement which must be paid within 120 days of the student’s withdrawal.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

NEED-BASED TUITION DISCOUNT

Many qualified applicants to the New York Film 4. Parents Financial Documentation (students Academy do not have the financial resources to under 26 years of age) demonstrating annual afford the cost of attendance. While many of these household income. For U.S. Citizens, Tax programs are eligible for Federal Aid, this is often returns are required. For international not sufficient to make our programs affordable to all custodial parent’s tax return or other students who would benefit from the education we documentation clearly demonstrating annual provide. In order to address this hardship, the New income. Please note, in the event that tax York Film Academy offers a Need-Based Tuition returns are unavailable, the following may be Discount to all students in the same circumstances. used: Social Security Documents; W2 Forms; To qualify, applicants must demonstrate the need for or Bank Statements. the tuition discount through documentation described below. In the event a student applies to a TUITION DISCOUNT CRITERIA FSA eligible program and receives federal student aid, the Need-Based Tuition Discount will be accounted for in the recipient’s financial aid package Student/Family Income is the main determining and included in the need determination for federal factor in awarding the amount of the discount. The student aid programs. The Need-Based Tuition table below illustrates the metric of income Discount is provided to qualified students for the amounts to discount amounts. All students in like duration of their program provided the student circumstances in the same programs and start dates maintains satisfactory academic progress. will receive the same discount.

GENERAL APPLICATION

1 Completed Application form 2 Financial need statement (a written document of up to a page discussing the student’s financial circumstances, and explaining their financial need for assistance). 3 Student Financial Documentation (all students) demonstrating annual household income. For U.S. Citizens, Tax returns are required. For international students tax return or other documentation clearly demonstrating annual income. Please note, in the event that tax returns are unavailable, the following may be used: Social Security Documents; W2 Forms; or Bank Statements.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

NYFA Programs with Tuition of $40,000 Per Year or Above

Income Amount of Discount $0 to $50,000 $15,000 to $10,000 $50,000 to $100,000 $10,000 to $5,000 $100,000 to $150,000 $5,000 to $0

NYFA Programs with Tuition Below $40,000 Per Year

Income Amount of Discount $0 to $50,000 $10,000 to $8,000 $50,000 to $100,000 $8,000 to $5,000 $100,000 to $150,000 $5,000 to $0

Other factors/criteria including those listed PERIOD OF DISCOUNT below may affect the amount of the discount and are also accounted for in the award Need-Based Tuition Discounts will be offered determination: at the New York Film Academy on a • Household size. permanent basis with no end date.

• Other funding sources (e.g.. Veteran’s funding). • Change in family financial circumstances (i.e. change in employment status; requiring demonstration from additional/supplemental documentation). • Past educational costs (i.e. student loan debts incurred before attending NYFA).

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

DRUG & ALCOHOL POLICY

NYFA students, staff and faculty are prohibited from Recent federal anti-drug laws affect a number of the unlawful manufacture, distribution, possession, areas in everyone’s lives. NYFA students violating or use of illicit drugs or alcohol. This prohibition this policy could lose eligibility for financial aid or applies while on NYFA campuses or when could be denied other federal benefits such as participating in any NYFA activity. Students or Social Security, retirement, welfare, health, employees who violate this policy are subject to disability, and veterans’ benefits. The Department disciplinary action up to and including expulsion or of Housing and Urban Development, which termination from employment. provides funds to states and communities for public housing, now has the authority to evict

Students or employees may obtain information residents and members of their household who pertaining to the health risks and effects associated are involved in drug related crimes on or near the with alcohol and narcotics or other dangerous or public housing premises. Businesses could lose illegal drugs from: federal contracts if the company does not promote a drug-free environment. Finally, a http://www.allaboutcounseling.com/drugeffects.htm. record of a felony or conviction in a drug-related crime may prevent a person from entering certain

The Student Liaison Office will also assist in careers. referring students to recovery and/or treatment programs. Specific school policies prohibit: In addition to local and State authorities, the federal government has four agencies engaged in

• Use, possession, sale, distribution and/or fighting illicit drugs. These agencies are: The Drug production of alcoholic beverages, acting as Enforcement Agency, U.S. Customs Service, an accessory, liaison, or facilitator for any of Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U. S.

the above except at a time, location and Coast Guard. Important facts to be aware of circumstance expressly permitted by NYFA include: and government regulations. • Use, possession, sale, distribution, and/or • It is a crime to hold someone else’s drugs. production of narcotics or other controlled • It is a crime to sell fake drugs. substances, including related paraphernalia, • You can be arrested if you are in a house or acting as an accessory, liaison, or facilitator (or an institution) where people are using for any of the above. drugs, even though you are not. Public intoxication anywhere on NYFA’s • • You can be charged with possessing drugs premises or at functions sponsored by or even if it is not found on you personally. participated in by NYFA. • You are considered to possess, under legal terms of constructive possession,” drugs Note: Responsibility is not diminished for acts in found in your locker, purse, car, or house. violation of NYFA rules and regulations or other laws that are committed under the influence of alcohol or any illegal drugs or controlled substances.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

Drug abuse is the utilization of natural and/or Treatment is available and may be expensive. For synthetic chemical substances for non-medical example, a typical live- in program lasting four (4) reasons to affect the body and its processes, the mind weeks can cost from $5,000 to $15,000. and nervous system and behavior. The abuse of Outpatient programs cost from $1,000 to $5,000. drugs can affect a person’s physical and emotional Who pays for these treatments? There may be health and social life. Alcohol is the most abused programs that cover the costs. One way or drug in the United States. Drugs can be highly another, the person and the taxpayer pays! It has addictive and injurious to the body. People tend to been proven that an individual “hooked” cannot lose their sense of responsibility and coordination. just stop, but requires professional care to kick Restlessness, irritability, anxiety, paranoia, the habit. There are classic danger signals that depression, slowed movement, inattentiveness, loss could indicate the first sign of drug use. The of appetite, sexual indifference, comas, convulsions, primary ones that could call attention to one’s use or even death can result from overuse or abuse of of drugs are: drugs. Not only does the person using the drug subject themselves to all sorts of health risks, drug • Abrupt changes in mood or attitude use can and, in many instances does, cause grief and • Continuing slump at work or in school discomfort to innocent people. • Continuing resistance to discipline at home or school A drug-induced brain, for example, affects the wide • Inability to get along with family or friends range of skills needed for safe driving. Further, Regular temper flare-ups • reflexes are slowed, making it hard for drivers to • Increased borrowing of money respond to sudden unexpected events. Alcohol- • Heightened secrecy/isolation related highway deaths are the top killer of 15-24 • Acquiring a whole new set of friends. year olds. NYFA requires that any person observing any Dependency upon drugs can only lead to a life of student or staff directly engaging in prohibited misery and misfortune. The illegal use or abuse of drug or alcohol use on campus immediately notify drugs has a very high impact on our society and the the Director. Caution must be observed, however, types of crimes committed. To support a drug habit, to avoid wrongful accusation of a person people may resort to many things that can lead to a suspected of taking drugs as an improper life of misery or, in some instances, death. Use link accusation could lead to embarrassment to both below for a complete list of the Health Risks the individual and the Institution. Once it has associated with alcohol dependency. been determined by management that assistance

to overcome the problem is indicated, the http://www.allaboutcounseling.com/drugeffects.htm individual and his/her family should be

counseled on the need for assistance. The dollar costs can range from $200 to $3,000 per Confidential student records will be maintained week to support a habit. More importantly, a drug of any such counseling provided to an individual. habit impacts a person’s family, lifestyle, education NYFA offers limited psychological counseling and and career prospects as well as one’s physical well- advice. If the individual is in immediate danger of being and self-respect. harming himself/herself or others, NYFA staff will contact local law authorities and immediate family members.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

In certain cases, students and employees may be Disciplinary action for a violation of the Code of referred to counseling sources and/or substance Conduct policy regarding alcohol or illicit drugs abuse help centers. If such a referral is made, can range from oral and written warnings up to continued enrollment or employment will be subject and including suspension, expulsion and to successful completion of any prescribed termination. counseling or treatment programs. Students who believe that they have a substance abuse problem and The effectiveness of the campus Drug Prevention are seeking treatment may contact the Student program is evaluated on a biennial basis to Liaison Office for counseling assistance. To request a ensure: referral for psychological counseling, contact the Student Liaison office, all such matters will be • The effectiveness of the program and to handled confidentially. New York Film Academy also modify where necessary. provides weekly drug and alcohol counseling on • That sanctions are consistently enforced. campus through a qualified facilitator. These services are offered to all students and employees and may be A record of reviews will be kept. These reviews mandatory in the event of a conduct code violation. will be maintained and available to appropriate Request for counseling services are initiated in the agencies as required and will include the Student Liaison Officer or the Human Resources following: office. Additionally, health and safety classes offered to NYFA students review the risks and consequences • the number of drug- and alcohol-related of substance abuse and provide tools for student disciplinary actions; success. These courses are incorporated into the • the number of drug- and alcohol-related student’s curriculum and include stress reduction, treatment referrals; yoga and meditation techniques. • the number of drug- and alcohol-related incidents recorded by campus police or There are also drug or alcohol counseling, treatment other law enforcement officials; and rehabilitation facilities available in the local area • the number of drug- and alcohol-related where individuals can seek advice and treatment. incidents of vandalism; National organizations also offer help, information • the number of students or employees and resources. The following link provides a attending self-help or other counseling list of hotline and support services on a national groups related to alcohol or drug abuse; level: and student, faculty, and employee attitudes and perceptions about the drug http://www.allaboutcounseling.com/crisis_hot and alcohol problem on campus. lines.htm As stated in the Code of Conduct, NYFA Students and staff who violate the NYFA standards students, faculty and staff are prohibited from the of conduct subject themselves to disciplinary action. unlawful manufacture, distribution, possession or Employees must notify the director in writing of a use of illicit drugs or alcohol. This prohibition conviction of a criminal drug statute occurring in the applies while on NYFA campuses or participating workplace within five days after receiving the in any NYFA activity. Those who violate the conviction. NYFA Code of Conduct will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion and loss of eligibility for financial aid.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

NYFA requires that any person observing any student or staff directly engaging in prohibited drug or alcohol use on campus immediately notify the

Director, Elli Ventouras. NYFA can only offer limited psychological counseling and advice for drug and alcohol abuse. Additional support or treatment must be an expense borne by the student. If the individual is in immediate danger of harming himself/herself or others, NYFA staff will contact local law authorities and immediate family members.

Students who believe that they have a substance abuse problem and are seeking treatment may contact the Student Liaison Office for counseling assistance. To request a referral for psychological counseling and/or treatment programs contact the Student Liaison office.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

CAMPUS POLICIES

DRESS CODE BIKES & SKATEBOARDS

Students must dress appropriately at all times. No Bikes and skateboards are not allowed to be ridden offensive, revealing or immodest clothing will be in any NYFA buildings. tolerated. Shirt and shoes are required inside all NYFA buildings. PETS & ANIMALS

SMOKING Pets and animals are not allowed on NYFA premises. Exceptions will be made for service Smoking is prohibited within 20 feet of entrances of animals. 420 Lincoln Rd.

NEIGHBORS

Students should always respect their surrounding space, both in class and between classes, as the New York Film Academy is a professional and academic environment. Students should refrain from rehearsing in the hallways and should be respectful of neighboring offices and establishments. Under no circumstance should students disrupt or enter neighboring offices and attempt to solicit work or internships. If students are holding casting sessions on campus or inviting non-NYFA actors to their shoots, they must acquire the appropriate permission, and bear the responsibility of those guests. NYFA students represent the school on campus and at any NYFA functions, including production workshops, and will face disciplinary action if they fail to adhere to the Code of Conduct.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

CAMPUS CRIME & SECURITY

JEANNE CLERY DISCLOSURE OF NYFA also provides full-time, unarmed Campus Security Authorities (CSA) Officers to assist with CAMPUS SECURITY POLICY & security in buildings and around the campus. CAMPUS CRIME ACT

REPORTING INTIMIDATION, This act requires NYFA to distribute its Campus THREATS OR VIOLENT ACTS Security Policy & Campus Crime Act to all current and potential NYFA students and employees. NYFA collects statistical information from Campus Security Students, teachers and staff are obligated to Authorities (CSA) and local municipal police report any incident of prohibited conduct to the departments including: Miami Police Department, Director, NYFA President or Executive Vice Miami-Dade County Sheriff’s Department, Miami President. Beach Police Department and Florida Highway Patrol. Licensed counselors are exempt from Every reported complaint regarding prohibited reporting requirements. NYFA encourages conduct or harassment will be investigated counselors to inform students of voluntary, thoroughly, promptly, and in a confidential confidential crime-reporting procedures for inclusion manner. If prohibited conduct is confirmed, in the Campus Security Report. NYFA will discipline the offender, whether student, faculty member or staff member. Statistical information from NYFA CSA Officers and Disciplinary action for a violation of this policy from outside law enforcement agencies, is integrated can range from oral and/or written warnings up into a single document and, posted on the NYFA to and including suspension, expulsion or webpage, and with provided in a hard copies termination of employment, depending on the provided upon request. circumstances.

MIAMI BEACH AND MIAMI- DADE THE INVESTIGATIVE PROCESS

POLICE DEPARTMENTS In the event of a reported violation of this policy:

The Miami Beach and Miami-Dade Police are vested • All involved parties will be interviewed by NYFA management. with the authority and responsibility to enforce all applicable local, state and federal laws. Officers have • Information obtained from interviews and investigations will be handled the authority and duty to conduct criminal confidentially on a need-to-know basis. investigations, arrest violators and suppress campus crime. Officers are duly sworn peace officers However, if information is learned that authorized to carry firearms and have the authority as requires legal action, disclosure of this municipal police officers to use police powers of information may be required during the arrest. The MDPD and the Miami Beach process. departments provide law enforcement services 24 • NYFA management or its designees will hours a day, 365 days a year. review the results of the investigation and determine the appropriate action.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

44 • Results of the investigation will be handled NYFA will not refund students for lost privileges confidentially on a need-to-know basis. or lost access to campuses, facilities, classes, tests, performances, lessons, appointments, or other NYFA investigator(s) will make a reasonable effort to activities and events resulting from a disciplinary ensure that the complaint(s) and/or person(s) action, except as required by state or federal providing information are not exposed to any threats policies. of violence, intimidation or personal risk. If any such situations are determined to have occurred, NYFA NON-EMERGENCY will respond appropriately. PROCEDURES & REPORTING Based on the investigation, the investigative team CODE OF CONDUCT must determine whether the allegation(s) were VIOLATIONS founded, unfounded or inconclusive. This determination shall be documented in writing and made part of the investigative report. Students are expected to abide by the NYFA Institutional Code of Conduct. NYFA holds all students, faculty and staff responsible for carrying DISCIPLINARY ACTION: out and monitoring compliance. Any ethical or STUDENTS, FACULTY & STAFF legal violation, unfair treatment or improper conduct should be reported immediately to the When a violation is found, the accused will be Director or Dean of Students and/or Human notified of the findings and the specific or corrective Resources so that it may be investigated and the remedial actions to be taken. For employees, the appropriate action taken. It is the responsibility of supervisor of the accused will also receive all members of the NYFA community to take an notification, as appropriate. No details about the active role in policing compliance with these nature or extent of disciplinary or corrective actions ethical standards and safety, so that we can will be disclosed to the complaint(s) and/or continue to maintain our creative environment witness(es) unless there is compelling reason to do so and reputation in the community. (i.e. personal safety.) CRIME LOG Resulting disciplinary action can include the following: A daily incident report is made available to the • verbal warning, temporary loss of specific Campus Director, reporting all activity related to privileges, suspension or expulsion. campus crimes. A compiled list of all activity is maintained for all campus locations by the In the event of an incident where NYFA Campus Operations Director and made available management considers there to be a significant safety to CSA Officers [NT1] for annual reporting risk to any students, faculty or staff, NYFA reserves requirements. Students are notified annually to the right to immediately suspend the involved parties review the campus crime and security report until the investigation provides reasonable assurance maintained on the NYFA website. that students, faculty & staff are not in any danger.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

45 NON-RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS Sexual harassment is also not tolerated, which includes unwelcome conduct such as stalking, requests for sexual favors, conversations All NYFA facilities are open to students and staff containing comments and unwelcomed sexual during daytime and evening hours while classes are advances. in session or while events are occurring. NYFA South Beach’s main facility is located 420 Lincoln Rd., Ste. DEFINITION OF SEXUAL 200, Miami Beach, Fl 33139. Operation hours are 9:00 AM to 10:00 Pm. During all other times, NYFA ASSAULT buildings are usually locked unless otherwise authorized. Students, faculty and staff must work Sexual assault occurs when a sexual contact is together to keep doors closed after hours. nonconsensual. The words “NO” or “STOP” indicate non-consent to any sexual contact. PROPERTY SECURITY Consensual sexual contact occurs when both AGAINST THEFT parties have communicated a willingness to participate in sexual act. Individuals may be incapable to consenting to a sexual act under the The following guidelines can help prevent theft on following circumstances: campus and on location:

• Incapacitated by the influence of drugs or

1. Whether on campus or on set, students must alcohol not leave NYFA equipment/property and • Suffering from a mental or physical disorder

other valuable items unattended. that makes them incapable of offering

2. Equipment and personal items that are not consent acting under threats, duress or

in use or under close surveillance should be force stored in a secure location. Vehicles are not • Consent to sexual conduct is not implied secure storage units for equipment and as a result of prior consent or marital or valuables. relationship status.

Any suspicious or unauthorized person identified on campus should be reported to an instructor or CSA DEFINITION OF DATING Office immediately. Students should never lend their VIOLENCE

NYFA ID badge to anyone at any time.

Domestic Violence is any violent act against HARASSMENT individuals listed below:

NYFA is committed to providing an educational • Spouse or domestic partner environment free of harassment. Slurs, jokes, • Individual with a shared dependent statements, emails, gestures, pictures or cartoons • Individual that receives grant or monies based on such factors as race, color, religion, under a domestic family violence act or is national origin, ancestry, age, physical disability, protected under a domestic family medical condition, marital status, sexual orientation, violence act. family care, leave status or veteran status as well as harassment based on gender, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions will not be tolerated. New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

46 SEXUAL ASSAULT, DATING, PROCEDURES FOR REPORTING

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE & SEXUAL ASSAULT STALKING NYFA students should never feel at risk of being stalked or harmed in any way. Non- consensual • Are crimes by state definition

Have silent victims, such as family, friends, sexual assaults, stalking, dating and domestic • neighbors and employers violence are significant issues for all members of the NYFA community. It is important to report • Benefit from intervention and may require incidents of rape, sexual assault and violence as intervention to end soon as possible. Students should call the Miami • Involve some form of mental abuse Beach Police Department if the sexual assault • Are prohibited by New York Film Academy incident occurs on NYFA campus or an affiliated Institutional Policy property. A police officer will take the initial

crime report for any sexual assault reported to the PREVENTION & AWARENESS Miami Beach Police Department or the Miami – Dade (MDPD) Police Department (BPD). A rape

Indications that the perpetrator may be at risk of counselor, friend or family member may be present at the survivor’s request. If the survivor conducting a violent act against the victim: has not received medical attention, the officer will • Extreme jealousy & possessiveness take the survivor to the closest Medical Center. • Interference with normal relationships with friends and relatives • Controlling behavior that includes While the survivors of sexual assaults are strongly o Anger when the victim does not report encouraged to contact the police, there may be their whereabouts to the perpetrator occasions where students prefer to go to other o Restriction of any activities that does not campus staff. Service Staff Members provide a include the perpetrator wide range of resources and are available to assist o Indications that these behaviors took students in working with local law enforcement, if place in previous relationships the survivor chooses. Academic advisors are • Perpetrator becomes involved with thevictim available to assist survivors, if housing and classes quickly and faster than the normalpace of a need to be changed. The Miami police will relationship conduct all investigations. Cases are submitted to • Requires constant reassurance of the the District Attorney or City Attorney and victim’s affections charges may be filed at their discretion. • Perpetrator expects the victim to be their ideal partner • Victim is expected to change their physical appearance or lifestyle to fit the expectations of the perpetrator

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

SEX OFFENDER NOTICE EMERGENCY NOTIFICATION SYSTEM Each state has specific laws regarding the registration of convicted sex offenders. Information on Florida statutes regarding sex offenders can be found at: NYFA utilizes an emergency notification system that sends text messages to all students in the http://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2014 event of an emergency. In the event of an /775.21 emergency, the Campus Director will:

The Department of Law Enforcement provides a • Consult with local law enforcement, fire registry of sexual predators and sexual offenders at departments, public health or emergency https://offender.fdle.state.fl.us/offender/hom management teams to investigate the epage.do and a toll-free telephone number that gives nature and impact of the emergency to access to sexual predator and sexual offender public NYFA students. information. • Confer with campus leadership to coordinate all emergency efforts. Toll-free telephone number: 1-888-357-7332 • Alert designated campus emergency drill Local Number: 850-410-8572 captains regarding the required steps based on the nature of the emergency. New York Film Academy South Beach is required to • Activate the notification system for all inform it’s students and employees of the existence students and employees. of this website and toll-free telephone number at • Monitor for updates from law enforcement, orientation and on the school website. fire departments, public health or emergency management teams regarding Additionally, the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention the status of emergency. Act provides for the tracking of convicted sex • Update students periodically regarding the offenders enrolled/employed at institutions of status of the emergency. higher education. Examples of emergencies requiring campus- wide TIMELY WARNINGS student notification:

• Immediate threats to student safety A campus-wide “timely warning” will be issued in the • Outbreaks of highly contagious diseases event of an emergency. Systems for issuing warnings • Fire include postings, flyers, emails and campus websites. • Weather emergencies NYFA will also share warnings from local police • Earthquakes & other natural disasters departments if the campus area is or may be affected. Updates on crimes are provided on the NYFA website. Anyone with time-sensitive information regarding threats to campus safety should report to NYFA CSA Officers.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

EVACUATION PROCEDURES The following items that are prohibited in office spaces is a list of fire safety rules for all buildings: NYFA has assigned Captains for each building. The Captains are responsible for safely escorting students • Space heaters are not to be used under any and staff out of NYFA buildings in the event of a circumstance fire. Instructors are also trained in proper evacuation • Personal coffee makers are required to be procedures and are responsible for safely evacuating unplugged before staff leaves the premises their classrooms on Captains’ requests. Students and • Overloading power sockets outlets are is strictly staff are held at nearby locations until the situation is prohibited assessed and it is safe to return to the building. • Power strips without surge protectors are not permitted Building Captains undergo annual training in fire • Smoking is not permitted inside or around the and emergency evacuation response procedures. entrance at any of the campus buildings They coordinate annual fire and earthquake drills to ensure the campus community is familiarized with the sound of the alarms and are aware of the proper evacuation procedures for each building.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

CLASSROOM POLICIES

CELL PHONE POLICY ROOM BOOKINGS

The use of cell phones/smart phones/iPads/tablets Please remember the following when booking and is expressly forbidden, unless used for research or using rooms for casting, rehearsals, or shoots: other class-related work, under the direct supervision of the instructor. 1. If you are conducting a casting session, please make sure your sign is clearly Phones, etc, should be turned off and kept out of printed with the following information: sight during class. The first violation will result in a • Name of project warning. Second and subsequent violations of cell • Name of room being used phone policy will result in immediate expulsion from • Dates and times class. The student will be marked absent for the day. • Name of the director of the project

The absentee policy will be applied as outlined • Phone number someone can be reached at with any questions. above.

This sign can only be hung on the door of the

PERSONAL BELONGINGS room being used. Please also provide this

information to the front desk. When your project

Students are not to leave any belongings unattended is done for the day, please make sure to remove in classrooms or on campus. NYFA cannot be held the sign. responsible for personal belongings that are lost or stolen. 2. If you are conducting a casting session, CONSULTATIONS you need to have one person in your group who will act as a greeter for the entire casting. This person shall always be NYFA encourages students to seek private on- outside the room if the casting is in the campus consultations with their instructors for Barham Building and on the floor's additional help with the curriculum (subject to elevator lobby in the Riverside Building. If teacher availability). This is a free service offered to you do not have a greeter, you will not be all students during their course of study. However, it checked into the room. is the student’s responsibility to make his/her appointments with instructors. If students do not 3. You may only remove furniture from any show up on time for scheduled appointments, they rooms with permission from a staff may lose the privilege of consulting with instructors. member at the front desk.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

4. Please be respectful of your fellow students, You will only be able to receive your deposit back faculty, and New York Film Academy staff if you have your Room Booking Check In/Out members while using the rooms. Although form completely signed by a staff member and you are using one room, students and faculty bring it in person back to the Bursar's Office. may have a class in the room next door. 8. You will need to get written permission 5. You are responsible for all parties involved from the Chair of your department if you with the use of the room. Please make sure all wish to book any room that requires a parties know the locations of smoking areas. $200 or $300 deposit. If you wish to Heavy fines may be incurred by the fire book any of the dance studios (Including marshal if someone is smoking in a non- Astaire and Rogers) or theaters in the smoking area. Please make sure you and all Barham building, you will need to get parties are respectful of our neighbors in any written permission from your Chair and of our buildings. then Sara Blindauer.

6. Only the student who has placed the deposit Failure to follow these rules may result in your can book the room. Your ID will be checked casting, rehearsal, or shoot being shut down and both when the room is booked and when you possibly losing your deposit. are checking in and out of the room. NO EXCEPTIONS . These signs must be typed, printed and hung only in approved areas. When work is completed for 7. All room bookings require a refundable the day, all posted signs must be removed. deposit at the Bursar's office. The Bursar's office will give you a receipt of this deposit. When conducting a casting session, students must Room booking deposits are $100.00 with the have one person acting as a greeter for the entire following exceptions: casting. This greeter will remain outside the room, wrangling all individuals for casting. $200.00 : Dance Studios #1, #3, #4, Astaire, Rogers, Welles, Lee, Theater #1, #2, and Rooms #5-8 in the Students must speak with Facilities Staff before Barham Building removing furniture from any rooms. $300.00 : Toland, Zsigmond, and Eggelston in the Riverside Building. $300.00 : Kaminski, Rooms #9, #10, #12 and #13 in the Barham Building

Bookings Not Allowed: Dance Studio #2, Brando, Montalban, Eisenstein, Sorkin, Goldman, and Ephron in the Barham Building.

Bookings Not Allowed: Hitchcock, Ford, DePalma, Miyamoto, Bushnell, Lasseter, Cassavetes (on the weekends) in the Riverside Building.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

ATTENDANCE POLICIES

Once a student has reached the 15 % maximum ATTENDANCE limit for unexcused absences, each subsequent

absence will result in the student’s grade being

All students are required to come to class on time dropped by one full letter. Students are and prepared to work. Any homework that must be responsible for completing and submitting any printed or prepared for presentation should be done missed work. Missing a significant assessment prior to the start of the class. Arriving to class more (such as a production workshop, showcase or than ten minutes late is considered an absence. other) may result in a larger grade penalty.

In some cases, students may not be allowed to enter class late as it may disrupt other students’ exercises, ABSENCES FOR presentations or tests. In such instances, students UNDERGRADUATE & must wait until a class breaks to be allowed in. GRADUATE PROGRAMS Students should refer to their course syllabus to view each instructor’s policy. To Foster a positive and constructive environment, all students enrolled in Community EXCUSED ABSENCES Education programs must adhere to the following attendance policy to maintain Satisfactory An absence can only be excused with a signed Academic Progress. doctor’s note verifying a medical emergency or with other verifiable proof of a personal or family Students enrolled in 1-Week programs are not emergency. All documentation must be submitted to permitted ANY absences. Absence from 1 class the Registrar’s Office within 48 hours after a will result in a mandatory disciplinary meeting student’s return to school/class. Approval is granted and may result in expulsion. at the discretion of the administration. Students in Holiday, 4, 6, 8 and 12 Week UNEXCUSED ABSENCES certificate programs who reach the following absence thresholds in any course will be placed on probation status for the remainder of the Students are not permitted to leave class early, unless program: otherwise arranged with the instructor, such as in the event of a medical emergency, an appointment with a 4-Week Programs: 4 unexcused absences in the government agency or other urgent matter. first 2 Weeks of the program. Auditions, work commitments and other extracurricular activities do not excuse students from 6 Week & Holiday Programs: 6 unexcused leaving class early or from arriving to class late. absences in the first 3 weeks of the program. Students who disregard this policy and leave class early or arrive late without the permission of the 8 Week Programs: 8 unexcused absences in the instructor will be marked absent. first 6 weeks of the program.

12 Week Programs: 6 unexcused class absences in the first 6 weeks of the program. New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

While on probation, students may not miss a single MANDATORY WITHDRAWAL class or school-related workshop. Any absence during DUE TO ABSENCES the probationary period may lead to suspension or expulsion from the program. Once a student has reached 40 % absences (excused ABSENCES FOR 1-YEAR, or unexcused), the student shall be asked to 2 YEAR CERTIFICATE, withdraw from that course.

UNDERGRADUATE If the absences are excused, the student will receive a & GRADUATE PROGRAMS “W” for the course and be permitted to retake the course without charge. If the absences are unexcused, the student will receive a failing grade and be For classes meeting once a week over the period of a charged to retake the course. Each case is evaluated full semester, students are allowed no more than two by administration to determine the final decision. unexcused absences in any one course.

A student who exceeds the 15% absence threshold in LEAVE OF ABSENCE any course in any course in a degree or non-degree program will be placed on Monitored Status. Students who wish to take a leave of absence must consult their Department Chair and submit a Leave ABSENCE PENALTIES of Absence Petition Form to the Registrar’s Office. To qualify for a leave of absence, you must be in good academic standing and be making satisfactory Students who have 25 % or more absences in any progress towards the completion of your degree or course in their core discipline, will not be allowed to certificate program. complete final project or Thesis requirements or participate in Showcases, Screenings, Pitch Fests and Students are permitted a leave of absence if they Exhibitions for that semester. meet one of the following reasons:

25 % absence in a single course is defined as follows: • Medical emergencies due to illness or accident

• Family emergencies that require a break from • 7 absences out of 30 classes full-time study • 4 absences out of 15 classes • Financial issues which affect students’ ability to • 3 absences out of 12 classes • 2 absences out of 10 classes continue to matriculate

• 1 absence out of 7 classes

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

Typically, NYFA students are granted a leave of International students on an F-1 student visa or J- absence of up to 180 days (6 months), before they 1 educational exchange visa must consult their are asked to withdraw and re-apply to the International Student Advisor if they are program. considering a leave of absence for any reason. An international student who needs time off due to a documented medical condition and wishes to Each student’s request is evaluated by the remain in the U.S. must provide a doctor’s letter Department Chair, Registrar, Dean of Students so that the reduced course load can be approved and any other relevant department or office. In and reported in the SEVIS system. Any deviation addition to speaking with their Department from the original program of study (or length of Chair, international students must contact the study) requires students to consult the International Student Office, Veterans must International Student Office. contact the Veteran Affairs Office and Federal Student Aid recipients should contact the It is the student’s responsibility to contact the Financial Aid office PRIOR to submitting a Leave respective offices, and it is not sufficient to only of Absence Petition, or risk defaulting on their speak with an instructor or staff member prior to status or loans. taking a leave of absence.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

ACADEMIC POLICIES NYFA South Beach students are required to meet Students in MFA programs with a cumulative both qualitative and quantitative academic GPA less than 3.0 or students that have standards. Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is a completed less than 66.66% of their cumulative Federal Policy mandated by the U.S. Department of attempted units in their current program of study Education. This policy ensures that students are have not met the minimum requirements for progressing through their program of study and Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) for that identifies students who may be at risk of failing. program.

SAP Warning Status TESTING OUT

Students that have not met the minimum SAP BFA students who complete the Math Placement requirements in the previous semester will be sent Test with a minimum score of 118 have the an SAP warning letter at the beginning of the opportunity to complete a second test in order to test following semester. Students in SAP Warning out of the College Mathematics requirement. Status will be contacted by the Registrar’s Office Students must score a minimum of 115 on the notifying them that they have been placed in second test in order to be waived out of FOUN151, academic “Monitored” or Attention” status. College Mathematics. Students in Warning status are offered additional

support services and are encouraged to utilize SATISFACTORY these services to improve their grades and GPA. ACADEMIC PROGRESS Students meeting the minimum requirements during this semester will be returned to (SAP) satisfactory academic status.

SAP Probation Status SAP Defined

Students that fail to meet SAP for two Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) is calculated by consecutive semesters will be sent an SAP program for all active students. SAP calculations for Probation Letter. Students in SAP probation students in non- matriculating certificate programs status are ineligible for financial aid until the SAP will be calculated separately for each individual probationary status is appealed and the appeal is program. Students in the BFA programs with a approved. Students appealing the SAP probation cumulative GPA (Grade Point Average) less than 2.0 decision must meet with the Dean of Students to or students that have completed less than 66.66% of complete an Academic Plan for the current their cumulative attempted units in their current semester. program of study have not met the minimum requirements for Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) for that program.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

Approved appeals will result in a reinstatement of Monitored Status: the student’s financial aid eligibility. During the Students who violate NYFA’s Academic or Probationary semester, the student must meet all the Attendance Policies will be placed on Monitored requirements of the Academic Plan to remain Status, where they will be assigned an Academic eligible for Federal Student Aid funding. Meeting the Support Plan. terms of the Academic Plan in subsequent semesters may result in continued eligibility for Federal Attention Status: Student Aid funding. Students on Monitored Status who fail to make satisfactory academic progress will be Students who have been placed in a warning status placed on Attention Status. that fail to meet to meet the minimum SAP requirements at the completion of their current Academic Probation: semester are ineligible for Federal Student Aid funding. Students on Attention Status who fail a course

despite receiving academic support may be placed Students appealing the SAP probation decision must on Academic Probation for the remainder of the complete an SAP appeal form and meet with a semester, as well as the subsequent semester. designated staff person in the Registrar’s Office to Academic Probation is a contractual agreement complete an academic plan. The completed SAP between the Registrar's Office and the student appeal form and academic plan must be returned to which mandates that a student cannot acquire the Financial Aid office for review. Approved appeals more than three absences or fail to complete one will result in a reinstatement of the student’s assignment or production workshop during the financial aid eligibility for one semester. Students probationary period. must meet all requirements of the academic plan to continue to receive Federal Student Aid funds. In order to remain enrolled in their program, Failure to meet the requirements set forth in the students on Academic Probation must reach the student’s academic plan will result in termination SAP minimum. In certain cases, students may be from the program of study. given the opportunity to complete additional

coursework in order to achieve a passing grade NYFA SOUTH BEACH and to earn credit for the course. All additional CAMPUS ACADEMIC coursework must meet all requirements set forth by the instructor, including established deadlines. PROGRESS POLICIES If a student does not make up a failing course grade, he/she must retake the course at a later In addition to meeting Satisfactory Academic time. For this make-up course, the student will be Progress, students in undergraduate and graduate charged a per-credit value. programs must also meet NYFA South Beach

Academic Progress policies. Students who fail to meet these academic standards may be subject to the following disciplinary statuses.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

All undergraduate and graduate students must GRADING POLICIES successfully complete their Academic Probation period to move on to their third semester. Undergraduate students on Financial Aid will not Students enrolled at the NYFA South Beach receive federal student aid funding if they fail to campus are graded on an A-F scale. Methods of meet all Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) evaluation and grading criteria are provided in requirements in their second consecutive semester each course syllabus and grading rubrics, which with a cumulative GPA below 2.0 or a completion outline the expectations for achievement. rate of less than 66.66 percent. Graduate students on Percentage-to-grade ratios may vary. GPAs are Financial Aid will not receive federal student aid calculated using the following grading key: funding if they fail to meet all Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) requirements in their second A 4.0 consecutive semester with a cumulative GPA below A- 3.7 B+ 3.3 3.0 or a completion rate of less than 66.66 percent. B 3.0 B- 2.7 During the probationary period, a student who C+ 2.3 receives additional failing grades in subsequent or 3rd C 2.0 consecutive semester of non- SAP is required to C- 1.7 D+ 1.3 attend a Disciplinary Review Hearing. Failure to D 1.0 successfully move out of Probation Status may result F 0.0 in suspension, expulsion or recommended withdrawal from the program Further notations on students’ transcripts include: Dismissal:

W Withdrawal from a course IP Courses in progress Students who are suspended, expelled or withdraw from their program may petition for readmission All courses are taken for college credit, unless after administrative approval has been granted. If a students have sought administrative permission to student is readmitted, he/she will be automatically audit courses. placed on Contractual Probation until the first academic semester of readmission is completed.

Students that re-enter after non-SAP termination will no longer be eligible for Federal student aid funding. Federal student aid recipients may appeal this status by completing a petition for SAP appeal form in the Registrar’s office. All SAP appeals will be reviewed by the SAP committee providing the students with a final determination of SAP appeal status before the completion of the semester. Accepted appeals will result in a reinstatement of Federal student aid eligibility.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

57 STRUCTURED REMEDIATION ADD/DROP, CHANGE &

PROGRAM (SRP) WITHDRAWAL

The Structured Remediation Program provides an Typically, only Liberal Arts & Science courses can opportunity for students to make up a single failing be added or dropped. Students have fivedays after grade. Students may only complete SRP once in their the start of a semester to petition to add, drop or academic career at NYFA and are only eligible if they change the grading option and/or section of a have one F on their record. This failing grade does course. not automatically qualify students for SRP.

The deadline is 5:00 pm on the fifth day of the

The Dean of Academic Advising contacts the student semester. Students must get approval from the and discusses a possible academic plan with the Chair of the Liberal Arts & Sciences Department, instructor of record. The instructor will determine before adding or dropping a course. Add/Drop whether students are eligible for Structured forms are available at the Registrar’s Office. Please

Remediation. Not all courses can accommodate this check the Add , Drop, Change Dates section of process. this catalog for exact deadlines.

If a student fails to fulfill the SRP obligations as International students and students on the GI outlined in his/her program, he/she must repay for Bill and Financial Aid must consult with and retake the course in its entirety. Students who appropriate departments to ensure full-time fail to fulfill the conditions of their SRP program will enrollment before dropping a course. automatically be put on SAP Warning status.

International students who do not fulfill the Add: Students must contact the Registrar’s requirements may not be eligible for OPT. Office and/or Chair of the Liberal Arts &

Sciences department to ensure that the intended FAILED COURSES course fits in with their schedule.

Drop: The decision to drop a course must be Students are required to repeat a full semester if they finalized by all departments by the end of the fifth receive 3 F’s in one semester or 3 F’s cumulatively. day of classes. Petition to drop courses after the Students repeating a full semester are placed on fifth day will only be accommodated with valid academic probation and must fulfill the terms of documentation of emergencies, such as illness, their probation to continue in their program. injury or death in the family. Students are required to pay per-credit for make-up work and will have the opportunity to enroll in additional courses they have not yet completed, to Change: Students may only switch sections or maintain full-time status. courses within the same 5-day Add/Drop period,

if the class is not already full.

Withdrawal: Non-attendance does not

automatically withdraw a student from a course.

To officially withdraw from a course after the

Add/Drop period, the student must contact the

Registrar’s Office and Department Chair. New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

Withdrawing from a course constitutes an attempt at Withdrawing from any courses after the five-day completing the course past the Add/Drop Period. Add-Drop Period does not constitute a refund. The course remains listed on the transcript and the student receives a “W” instead of a grade. All units Students who fail to meet the minimum in “W” status will be considered attempted but not requirements of their Academic Plan during their completed in the student’s calculation of on- time probationary semester will no longer be eligible completion. for student financial assistance.

In a full-semester course, students may not withdraw ADD, DROP, CHANGE past 12 weeks into the course without incurring an academic penalty. The student may petition to have DATES the “W” removed from the transcript upon successful completion of the course. S/he may do so The following dates represent the by submitting a petition in writing to the Dean’s Add/Drop/Change deadlines for 2016. Office. This process does not guarantee rescinding Add/Drop forms are available at the Registrar’s the “W” from the transcript. Office.

Students Paying Flat-Fee Tuition: Students on the flat-fee tuition system are those who Spring 2016 complete their course of study without transferring Drop Deadline: 02/05/2016 – 5:00 pm in any credits. Those students are not eligible for a refund for courses dropped at any point in the Under rare, special circumstances, such as a academic year, as all courses are required within the medical emergency, students may be permitted to prescribed curricula. drop courses by the second posted deadline (mid- semester) and will receive a “W” on their Students must repeat the dropped course in a transcript. subsequent semester when it is offered, by re- registering at no additional cost. The following deadlines represent the final date, where students may still receive a “W” on their However, students must pay for courses that they transcript: repeat due to F grades on a per-credit basis. The determination of the per-credit costs will be based on Spring 2015 their flat-fee tuition and will be provided to the Deadline: 3/23/2016 – 5:00 pm student. TEST-OUT POLICY Students Paying Per-Credit Tuition: Students who transfer credits into their program pay per-credit, based on the number of credits they Students who wish to test out of Mathematics or register for each semester. These students are eligible English Composition must be approved to do so for a per-credit refund for any courses dropped by the Chair of Liberal Arts & Sciences. Students during the Add/Drop Period. must score 118 or higher on their Math placement test in order to be eligible for the secondary test. Students must then score 95 % or higher to be exempt from completing Math.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

THESIS & FINAL PROJECTS To initiate a grade appeal, students must complete the Grade Appeal Form, which is available at the Registrar’s Office and the Office Students who do not fulfill academic requirements of the Dean of Students and Dean of Academic or fail to abide by institutional or campus-wide Advising. In order to initiate a grade appeal, the policies, may be prohibited from participating in student must adhere to the following process: showcases, screenings, pitch fests, exhibitions or any other capstone projects or presentations, including production. Steps/Action Taken STEP 1 Student meets with instructor within 30 days of course completion. VACATION BREAK Student submits Grade Appeal Form to the Registrar’s Office & Department STEP 2 Chair within 1 week of meeting with the Students may request to take a semester off once they instructor. have successfully completed two consecutive semesters. The request must be submitted to the following administrators no later than 5 weeks prior If Grade Appeal Has Not Been Resolved: to the semester they wish to take off: STEP 3 Department Chair reviews supporting documents and

1 Department Chair meets with instructor 2 Registrar within 10 days of receiving 3 Associate Dean for Academic Affairs the Grade Appeal Form. Department Chair meets (for BFA transfer students.) STEP 4 4 International Student Advisor, with student within 2 weeks of receiving the Financial Aid Director or Director of Grade Appeal Form. Veteran Affairs (if applicable.) STEP 5 Within 1 week after the 5 Dean of Students (if recommended by Department Chair’s the Registrar or any other parties.) meeting with the student, the Department Chair

For example, students who wish to take their 3rd submits a recommendation to the Dean of Students, semester off, must do so no later than Week 10 of Registrar and any other the 2nd semester. Please note that your request may relevant administrators or offices. be denied if you are not in good academic standing Within 2 weeks after or have other SAP requirements to fulfill. Requests STEP 6 are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. receiving the Department Chair’s recommendation, the Dean of Students GRADE APPEAL reviews and consults with all relevant offices. The student and instructor are

Students have the right to initiate a grade appeal notified of the final decision. within 30 days after the course has been completed. Any grade appeals initiated after this period will not be accepted.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

GRADUATION

REQUIREMENTS

In order to graduate, all students must:

• successfully complete every course of study with a passing grade

• adhere to all institutional policies, including the

Attendance Policy, Code of Conduct and Academic Policies. • Complete all requirements for graduation in a period no longer than 150 % of the published length of the educational program, as defined by percentage of credit units attempted vs. completed.

Furthermore, undergraduate and certificate program students must:

• maintain a cumulative GPA of a "C" (2.0) or higher • complete and receive a passing grade on their

• Thesis project by the established deadline and in

accordance with all guidelines

Graduate students must:

• maintain a cumulative GPA of a "B" (3.0) or higher

complete and receive a passing grade on their • thesis project by the established deadline and in accordance with all guidelines

In addition to following NYFA’s Academic Policies, all students must complete all required projects and/or thesis requirements and adhere to all institutional policies, including the Attendance Policy and Code of Conduct. Students must complete all requirements for graduation in a period no longer than 150% of the published length of the educational program, as defined by percentage of credit units attempted vs. completed.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

CREDIT EARNING POLICIES

The New York Film Academy awards credit FULL-TIME STATUS according to the following policy:

In undergraduate and certificate programs, a A semester unit consists of 3 hours of work each week for a period of 15-16 weeks. In lecture courses minimum of 12 units per semester is required for requiring outside preparation, 1 semester unit students to maintain full-time status. In graduate represents 1 hour of instruction and at least 2 hours programs, a minimum of 6 units per semester is of work outside of class, per week. In required for students to maintain full-time status. studio/laboratory courses, 1 semester unit represents 1.5 to 2 hours of instruction and at least 1 – 1.5 INDEPENDENT STUDY hours of studio/laboratory preparation, per week.

NYFA does not offer formal independent study Under the supervision of the Dean of the College, programs, and evaluates students’ needs on an Provost and School Directors, the Department individual basis. In special circumstances, Chairs plan program curricula with faculty students may be provided opportunities to pursue involvement, and determine the appropriate number individualized study, which is defined as of instructional hours for every course/program and completing a course on a one-on-one basis with the amount of work/preparation outside of class an instructor. Allowances may be made for students need to complete their study. students to complete specific courses in individualized study if/when it is determined by

The Provost, Dean of the College and Department the Department Chair and Dean of the College Chairs assign the appropriate credits for each course that the student will achieve all of their course and program, based on the credit/hour formula goals in a non-traditional learning experience. No designated above. In addition, the Associate Dean of more than 20 % of a student’s education may be Institutional Accreditation, Associate Dean for completed in individualized study form.

Academic Affairs and Registrar review NASAD and the Florida Commission for Independent Education guidelines routinely to ensure that the New York Film Academy is complying with regulations.

These credit/hour designations are reviewed with the Scheduling Department, where the above officers ensure that the appropriate semester and course length, number of class sessions and duration of class sessions are consistent in the course catalog and students’ academic schedules.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

TRANSFER CREDIT POLICIES

To maintain the integrity of its programs, NYFA only accepts transfer credits in the student’s major area or discipline from its branch campuses, and transfer credits for Liberal Arts & Science courses towards their AFA, BA or BFA degrees. NYFA does not accept more than 30 units of Liberal Arts & Science from other schools. From NYFA’s branch campuses, the South Beach campus will accept no more than 50 % of the total credits required to complete a degree or program.

Students desiring credit for previous academic work or training must submit a written request for such credit to the Registrar Office, along with official transcripts and/or official score reports. No requests for transfer credits can be evaluated until students have submitted evidence of completed coursework. All transfer credit requests must be made prior to the first day of class, and students are encouraged to contact the Registrar’s office prior to the first day of class, in order to ensure that all requisite material is received and evaluated in a timely manner. Students who fail to submit a transfer credit request and provide all required documents by the deadline will not have their credits transferred and must attend all mandatory courses in their program.

To be accepted for transfer, courses must have been taken at an accredited institution, taken for a letter grade of a C or higher (where the C grade has the numerical equivalent of at least 2.0 on a 4.0 point scale); be a college-level course and must be the substantial equivalent of a course offered at the New York Film Academy. Decisions regarding the awarding of credit rest with the Registar. If credit is awarded, the length and/or requirements of the program may be adjusted. Only official transcripts, official score reports and official evaluations of foreign units shall be used for this review.

Transfer students must meet the same overall academic standards and requirements as students who enter the BFA as freshmen. The studio arts curriculum at NYFA is highly specialized and integrated with very few electives and it is the general policy of New York Film Academy not to accept transfer units in studio arts from other academic postsecondary institutions. Grades from transfer courses are not used to calculate the NYFA grade-point average; only the course units transfer. NYFA may place further restrictions on the acceptance of transfer units in order to maintain the integrity of the BFA degree program. For this reason, courses, practice or internships, taken at other institutions may not transfer. Acceptance of units in transfer does not guarantee that those units will be applicable to the BFA degree.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

TRANSFER OF INTERNATIONAL CREDIT

Credit from institutions outside the country must be equated to those at accredited US colleges and universities. It is the responsibility of the student to furnish NYFA with an original certified copy of an evaluation of his/her international units performed by a current member of NACES (National Association of Credential Evaluation Services).

CREDIT FOR NON-TRADITIONAL EXPERIENCE

The Dean of the College may authorize non-traditional course work for transfer upon review of relevant transcripts and other supportive materials. Such units, if granted, are only to be used for program requirements.

OTHER COURSE WORK

Approved Internships or NYFA Summer Abroad programs shall be listed on the NYFA transcript as “transfer units.”

NOTICE CONCERNING TRANSFERABILITY OF CREDITS & CREDENTIALS EARNED AT OUR INSTITUTION

The transferability of credits you earn at NYFA is at the complete discretion of an institution to which you may seek to transfer. Acceptance of the degree, diploma or certificate you earn in Filmmaking, Film & Media Production, Acting for Film, Screenwriting, Producing, Photography, Cinematography, 3-D Animation and Game Design is also at the complete discretion of the institution to which you may seek to transfer. If the credits, degree or certificate that you earn at this institution are not accepted at the institution to which you seek to transfer, you may be required to repeat some or all of your coursework at that institution. For this reason you should make certain that your attendance at New York Film Academy will meet your educational goals. This may include contacting an institution to which you may seek to transfer after attending NYFA to determine if your credits or degree, diploma or certificate will transfer.

TUITION CREDIT

Students who receive transfer credit for previous academic work or training may be entitled to a reduction in tuition. This reduction in tuition would be on a pro-rated, per credit unit basis, depending on the number and type of units transferred, and the course(s)/semester(s) to which they apply.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

DISCIPLINARY POLICIES

SIMULTANEOUS PROBATIONS Any suspended student has the right to an Appeals Process and may appeal his/her suspension by submitting a formal letter to the Students may be placed on Attendance Probation Dean of Students. Pending administrative and Academic Probation simultaneously and remain approval, students may continue on with their in their program. current program or re-enroll at a new start date, so as not to disrupt their education and training. PROCEDURAL HOLD Students re-enrolling must pay full tuition for that semester.

Students suspected of violating NYFA institutional or campus-wide policies will face a fair and thorough EXPULSION investigation and disciplinary hearing to determine if their conduct warrants disciplinary action. Students expelled from any New York Film Academy program cannot continue instruction If, in the process of investigating possible violations with their current course. A student expelled involving the safety and welfare of others, students, from the New York Film Academy may take faculty or staff are deemed at risk, then the alleged advantage of the New York Film Academy’s offender may be removed from class during the Student Tuition Refund Policy. investigation, at which time he/she will be placed on Procedural Hold, for a maximum of 10 instructional days. During this period, students are responsible for consulting with the Office of the Dean of Students in order to maintain their academic standing. Once the investigation is complete, the Disciplinary Panel will inform the student of the findings and subsequent decision.

SUSPENSION

Following a thorough investigation, students found to have violated NYFA institutional or campus-wide policies may be suspended.

Students on suspension may be prohibited from entering the NYFA campus or attending any NYFA functions. In addition to the Disciplinary Panel, the CEO, CAO and COO may suspend any student immediately, when the school officer deems such an action appropriate.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

CREATIVE FREEDOM

ACADEMIC FREEDOM ACADEMIC HONESTY & CREATIVE INTEGRITY

NYFA believes in the free pursuit of intellectual and artistic inquiry, as well as the exchange of ideas NYFA expects all students to be responsible between instructors and students. Controversial individuals who insist on high standards of subjects may be explored without fear of censure, honesty, personal conduct and creative integrity. retribution or reprisal, so long as the work occurs All incidences of plagiarism, cheating and within the scope of the NYFA education and is deliberate hindrance of other students’ work are consistent with its stated Academic Freedom Policy, considered serious offenses and will be subject to which will be made available to any person upon a Disciplinary Review Hearing at which penalties request. Students, faculty and staff are free to express will be imposed. themselves and explore their artistic horizons as they see fit, provided that they remain in compliance with Academic honesty extends to all school projects, state and federal law, and so long as they can productions and exercises, both on and off the successfully demonstrate that the work NYFA campus. Students must maintain a high discussed/performed/completed was created with standard of honesty in declarations and artistic intent. Pornographic depictions created with descriptions of these projects to faculty, commercial intent or used for commercial purposes administration and staff, as well as other agencies will not be tolerated, and the creators of such work and vendors. Deliberate dishonesty and will be subject to expulsion/dismissal. misconduct are considered serious offenses and will be subject to a Disciplinary Review Hearing at Instructors are free to discuss controversial subjects which penalties will be imposed. in class and screen controversial works without fear of reprisal, so long as the work serves the overall goal of NYFA curriculum and does not violate the NYFA FREEDOM OF SPEECH Code of Conduct or any institutional or campus- wide policies. Work that contains nudity, graphic NYFA is an open, artistic environment. While we sexual depictions, extreme violence and/or excessive embrace the artist’s right to free speech and profanity may be precluded from a public screening expression, any form of discrimination (whether at the discretion of the administration. Films based on age, race, religion, gender or sexual precluded from public presentation will be screened preference, etc.) will not be tolerated. Libel and in private for an appropriate, invited audience. slander are strictly prohibited. Any student found guilty of defamation against NYFA students or staff is subject to disciplinary action. Any NYFA student, faculty or staff found guilty of defamation against any other student, faculty or staff is subject to disciplinary action, including probation, expulsion or termination.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

Copyright infringement is the act of exercising, trademarks, patents and other legally recognized without permission or legal authority, one or more of rights to intangible assets, including literary, the exclusive rights granted to the copyright owner cinematic and artistic works. under section 106 of the Copyright Act (Title 17 of the United States Code). These rights include the Students must adhere to industry standards and right to reproduce or distribute a copyrighted work. institutional policies regarding copyright laws, with respect to material they wish to produce. For NYFA coursework, students may be advised not to use, or In the file-sharing context, downloading or uploading parts or whole copyrighted works without may be prohibited from using, characters, music, and authority constitutes an infringement. Students are other source material they do not have rights to. reminded that copyright infringement is a criminal Students working on adaptations are encouraged to use material that is in the public domain. Students offense and convictions may include jail time and/or severe fines, with a maximum penalty of $150,000 may direct any questions they have regarding per instance in the United States. appropriate use of intellectual property to faculty or administration.

Students are forbidden from illegally downloading, uploading or sharing pirated material on campus, including, but not limited to, software, torrents, films and television shows. Failure to comply with the institution’s policy will result in disciplinary action.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

EDUCATIONAL RIGHTS & PRIVACY

NYFA operates within the guidelines of federal and DIVERSITY & NON- state law with regard to the maintenance, organization and protection of student files. NYFA is DISCRIMINATION POLICY aware of, and in compliance with, guidelines established by the Family Educational Rights and To foster a diverse, safe and productive learning Privacy Act (FERPA), concerning protection of and work environment, every student, instructor confidentiality and privacy of student records. A copy and staff is entitled to be treated in a fair and of FERPA guidelines is available for review in the appropriate manner irrespective of:

Registrar’s Office. • Race RETENTION & PERSISTENCE • Ethnicity • Nationality • Disability All records for each NYFA student are kept in • Gender separate academic and financial files in locked • Age cabinets in the Registrar’s Office. The Registrar • Sexual orientation must accompany anyone entering the Registrar’s • Religion Office. All academic and financial records for each Political beliefs student (current, graduate or withdrawn) will be • stored for a minimum of 5 years after the date of their first class at NYFA. Academic transcripts are This list is intended to be illustrative and is not permanently maintained. Should a complaint arise exhaustive. Striving for a bias-free environment is concerning a particular student, the files pertaining central to our mission. All students, staff and to that student will be maintained for the life of the faculty are obliged to adhere to the Diversity corporation. Policy.

REPORTING DISCRIMINATION STUDENT & INSTRUCTOR NON- FRATERNIZATION POLICY We are committed to responding quickly and constructively to bias and discrimination Intimate relationships/dating between students and complaints, and ensuring that all individuals feel instructors or staff of NYFA is strictly prohibited. comfortable coming forward with a complaint.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

Any student, faculty or staff member who has Threatening remarks or any act of physical witnessed or experienced discrimination, harassment violence from faculty, staff or administrative or defamatory language on campus should employee towards any other instructor, staff immediately report the incident in one of the member, administrator, student or other person following ways: in general will not be tolerated. Any employee who violates these terms is subject to immediate • File a complaint form available at the Dean’s termination. Office. • Send an email to [email protected] • Discuss the problem with a faculty member, Any act of sexual assault or any other physical Department Chair, or the Dean of the violence will immediately be reported to the College, Dean of Faculty or Dean of proper legal authorities. Any student, faculty, staff Students. or administrator who falls victim to sexual harassment or assault will be immediately taken NYFA will take the appropriate action to protect to the nearest hospital for medical treatment and faculty, staff and students from discrimination, emotional counseling. Information on crisis investigate any allegations or complaints and counseling is available in the Registrar’s Office interview all parties involved to find effective and the Student Affairs Liaison Office. resolutions. STUDENT RIGHTS & Depending on the findings of the investigation and GRIEVANCES at the discretion of the school, any student, faculty or staff member who violates the Policy may be suspended or dismissed. All students have the right to due process in any action brought against them by NYFA that may In some cases, students, faculty or staff members who adversely affect their academic status with the wish to continue their study or employment may be institution. Students have the right to petition for required to attend a Diversity/Sensitivity Training special consideration with regard to the academic course at their own expense. and administrative policies and procedures when circumstances beyond their control prevent them HARASSMENT & SEXUAL from adhering to said policies and procedures.

ASSAULT

Threatening remarks from students (verbal slander, sexual harassment, threats of violence, etc.) and/or any act of physical violence from a student toward any instructor, staff member, student or other person in general will not be tolerated. Any student who violates these terms is subject to disciplinary action and/or criminal prosecution.

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

STUDENT GRIEVANCES PROCEDURES • Following a valid complaint, NYFA will implement reasonable policies or procedures to avoid similar complaints in the future. NYFA will address all appropriate student grievances promptly. A grievance is considered appropriate if a • If the complaint is submitted in writing, the student expresses feelings of dissatisfaction Grievance and Appeals Committee will concerning any application or interpretation of the provide the student with a written response. NYFA administration or management-related policy. Procedures are as follows: • A written summary of all complaints will be

kept in Student Records for a minimum of Complaints or problems with NYFA should be • five years, following the date that the directed to Elli Ventouras, David Klein or complaint was first received. Michael Young.

A student or any member of the public may file a All student complaints will be investigated • complaint about this institution with the Florida thoroughly, including interviewing all parties Department of Education, Commission for and reviewing all documents that relate to or Independent Education at:

may potentially relate to the complaint.

325 West Gaines Street

Suite 1414 • If the complaint is determined to be valid, all Tallahasse, Florida 32399 necessary steps will be taken to provide the appropriate remedy for the complaint.

Telephone & Fax:

888-224-6684 (toll-free) or 850-245-3200 or by fax

850-245-3234

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

NOTIFICATION OF STUDENT RIGHTS UNDER FERPA

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. These rights include:

• the right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day that New York Film Academy receives a request for access. A student should submit to the Registrar a written request that identifies the record(s) the student wishes to inspect. The designated official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected.

• the right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. A student who wishes to ask New York Film Academy to amend a record should write the Registrar, clearly identify the part of the record the student wants changed, and specify why it should be changed. If New York Film Academy decides not to amend the record as requested, the student will be notified in writing of the decision as well as the student’s right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.

• the right to request, in writing, New York Film Academy not disclose personally identifiable information from the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. New York Film Academy discloses education records without a student’s prior written consent under the FERPA exception for disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by New York Film Academy in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom New York Film Academy has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using New York Film Academy employees or officials (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for the school.

• the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by New York Film Academy to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202-5901

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

DIRECTORY CAMPUS HOURS & ADDRESS

Front Desk 9 am - 9 pm, Monday - Saturday Main Campus & Mailing Address: Administrative 9 am - 6 pm, Monday - Friday 420 Lincoln Rd., Ste. 200 Offices Miami Beach, FL 33139 Telephone: 305-534-6009 Library 10am -10pm, Monday- Thursday 10 am - 6 pm, Friday 10 am – 5 pm, Saturday

ONLINE PUBLICATIONS Institutional Website: www.nyfa.edu Course Catalog: http://catalogs.nyfa.edu/florida.html Student Handbook: http://hub.nyfa.edu/handbooks Digital Room Boards: http://hub.nyfa.edu/boards Academic Calendar: http://www.nyfa.edu/admissions/school -calendar FAQ’s: http://www.nyfa.edu/about/faq.php

STUDENT SERVICES

Academic Support: http://www.nyfa.edu/bfa/academic -support.php Rooms & Schedules: http://hub.nyfa.edu/boards Housing Information: http://www.nyfa.edu/admissions/housing.php BFA Resources: www.nyfa.edu/bfa/resources.php Financial Aid: http://www.nyfa.edu/admissions/financial_aid.php International Students: http://www.nyfa.edu/admissions/international_student.php Veteran Affairs: http://www.nyfa.edu/veterans Transfer Students: http://www.nyfa.edu/admissions/transfer -students.php

PRODUCTION RESOURCES

Production Handbook: http://hub.nyfa.edu/handbooks Job Opportunities Board: net.nyfa.edu/jobs NYFA Events: net.nyfa.edu/events/industry Headshots Database: http://hub.nyfa.edu/directory

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

ADMINISTRATIVE RESOURCES Founder, Jerry Sherlock Director of Operations Michael Caputo, BFA

Chief Executive Officer [email protected] Jean Sherlock

1st Floor, Riverside Dean of the College

Los Angeles Campus Sonny Calderon, MFA st [email protected] 1 Floor, Riverside [email protected] President/Provost Michael Young, MFA Dean of Academic Advising [email protected] Mike Civille, Ph.D, American Studies 2nd Floor, Riverside Senior Executive Vice President [email protected] David Klein, MFA [email protected]

Director and Senior Vice President Of South Beach Elli Ventouras, MFA [email protected] ACADEMIC RESOURCES Registrar Associate Dean for Institutional Accreditation Debra Johnson Evelyn Chandra st [email protected] 1 Floor, Riverside [email protected]

Librarian Gail Hart [email protected]

STUDENT RESOURCES Director of Admissions Bursar’s Office Kevin Curtin Ma Lwin 1st Floor, Riverside New York Campus Los Angeles Campus [email protected] [email protected] International Office Director of Financial Aid Merell Cole Lissa Wayne [email protected]

1st Floor, Riverside

Los Angeles Campus Chair Of Industry Outreach & Professional

[email protected] Development

Barbara Weintraub

Veterans Affairs 1st Floor, Riverside

Johns Powers [email protected]

[email protected]

New York Film Academy South Beach Spring 2016 Student Handbook

PRODUCTION, POST PRODUCTION & EQUIPMENT

Post Production Manager Equipment Room Manager Eduardo Santa Maria Kevin Ondarza [email protected] [email protected]

Editing Room Supervisor Kyle Fritsche

[email protected]