This is a legally binding contract between the American Art Film & Television Academy, LLC, hereinafter referred to as 'AAFTA,' 'us,' or 'we,' and the signing party, which includes both students and, in the case of a minor, their parent and/or legal guardian, hereinafter referred to as 'student/s,' 'client/s,' 'you,' or 'I'.

If you've already agreed to the 'Notes / Terms' outlined in our billing service Wave, it's important to note that these contract conditions now constitute the primary agreement between the client and AAFTA. Once this contract is signed, these new terms, conditions, conduct, contract, and/or agreement will act as our 'Additional Terms' and are in lieu of or in addition to the 'Notes / Terms' from Wave. In the event of a conflict between these 'Notes / Terms' and these new 'Additional Terms', the Additional Terms will govern.

In the case of a client being a minor, the undersigned parent or legal guardian acknowledges that they are not only signing this Agreement on behalf of the client but that they are also signing on behalf of the minor, and the minor shall be bound by all the terms of this Agreement. Additionally, by signing this Agreement as the parent or legal guardian of a minor, the parent or legal guardian understands that they are also waiving rights on behalf of the minor that the minor otherwise may have. By entering into this Agreement without a parent or legal guardian’s approval, the participant, under penalty of fraud, represents that they are at least 18 years of age. If signing as the parent or guardian of a minor participant, signing adults represent that they are a legal parent or guardian of the minor participant. When terms such as 'student/s,' 'client/s,' 'you,' or 'I' are mentioned anywhere in this document, they refer to both the student and their parent and/or legal guardian.

AAFTA believes in equal opportunity and does not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, religion, gender, age, national origin, disability, marital status, or sexual orientation. AAFTA asks for students to disclose any current or past medical conditions so that we can ensure all special needs are met to develop a thriving environment for every student. All information disclosed will remain confidential, unless under extenuating cirsumstances where it would impact the safety of the applicant.

An inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 exists in any place where people gather. COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease that can lead to severe illness and death. You assume all risks, hazards, and dangers arising from or relating in any way to the risk of contracting a communicable disease or illness – including, without limitation, exposure to COVID-19 or any other bacteria, virus, or other pathogen capable of causing a communicable disease or illness, whether that exposure occurs before, during, or after an in-person class or show, and regardless of how caused or contracted – and you hereby waive any and all claims and potential claims against AAFTA and its affiliates relating to such risks, hazards, and dangers. Therefore, all showcases, screenings, classes, and other in-person events will be conducted in accordance with our updated safety protocols.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

*Please note: Invoices containing payment instructions sent upon receipt of this contract. 

**Please note: ALL DEPOSITS are 20% of FULL COURSE FEE. 

 

DOMESTIC & INTERNATIONAL PAYMENTS:

CREDIT CARD/WAVE: When paying with credit card through wave it will incur a 3% surcharge plus 0.6 transfer fee. 

ZELLE: director@aafta.us

 

INTERNATIONAL PAYMENTS ONLY:

TRANSFERWISE - (Low Fees - Better Conversion Rates)

CHECKING: 322271627 Routing 286330326 Account

NAME: American Arts Film and Television Academy, LLC

ADDRESS: 11050 Moorpark St, Apt 2, North Hollywood CA 91602

EMAIL director@aafta.us 

USE LINK: https://transferwise.com/invite/u/jessicao252

AAFTA is open to negotiating installment amounts that fit your budget, though the deposit is fixed and non-negotiable. AAFTA staff will review and approve all payment plans.

Payment plan agreements must be adhered to at all times. There will be no amendments to payment plans, unless significant evidence can be provided, and with permission from the studio director.

Any payments not received by set dates will incur a 10% interest fee. For payments made more than 14 days late a further 10% interest fee will be added and so on, until the amount has been made in full.

AAFTA reserves the right to charge credit cards if course funds are not received. Should contract be breached, AAFTA reserves the right to engage in litigation.

The AAFTA Financial Aid Program aims to make high-quality vocational training accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds by offering need-based financial assistance. This policy outlines the criteria, application process, and guidelines for awarding financial aid.

Financial aid may be awarded in the form of grants, scholarships, or payment plans. Grants and scholarships do not require repayment, while payment plans allow students to spread out the cost of tuition over an agreed period.

The amount of financial aid awarded will vary based on the applicant's financial need and the funds available.

All financial aid recipients must sign an agreement outlining the terms of the aid, including the conditions for maintaining eligibility.

AAFTA encourages students to explore external scholarships, grants, and funding opportunities. Our administration team can provide guidance on where to find additional financial assistance.

Eligibility: The recipient must maintain high standard of professionalism and demonstrate artistic progress as assessed by AAFTA's criteria throughout the course for which the aid is granted.

Enrollment: The recipient must be enrolled as a full-time student in the vocational performing arts program, participating in all required classes, rehearsals, and performances.

Repayment and Refund: If the recipient withdraws from the Academy or reduces enrollment below full-time status, the recipient may be required to repay all or part of the financial aid received, subject to AAFTA’s refund policy.

Use of Funds: The financial aid funds must be used exclusively for tuition, fees, books, supplies, and other educational expenses directly related to the recipient’s vocational training at AAFTA.

Verification: The recipient agrees to provide any necessary documentation to verify eligibility, including but not limited to, proof of enrollment, academic and performance evaluations, and financial information.

Compliance: The recipient must comply with all AAFTA policies, rules, and regulations. Failure to do so may result in the termination of financial aid.

On acceptance into the program, you understand that you are required to pay a 20% NON-REFUNDABLE deposit within 14 days; if not paid within 14 days, AAFTA reserves the right to offer the students (and/or their guardian) position being offered to another candidate.

Non-refundable deposits of $2,200 are required for each program, regardless of Early Bird, Special Offer or Financial Aid.

Should a student advise withdrawal from the program MORE than 180 days prior to its commencement, any fees paid above the $2200 deposit will be refunded.

If a student advises their withdrawal from the program WITHIN 180 days of commencement, the entire program fee is required to be paid. Students are permitted to transfer deposits and fees towards the next available program within 12 months.

Upon registration, credit cards will be taken as collateral. AAFTA reserves the right to charge the authorized card on file if student advises withdrawal and fails to fulfil the agreed upon program payment plan between student and AAFTA. In this scenario, AAFTA will charge the authorized credit card in accordance with the payment amount and dates agreed upon in the payment plan between student and AAFTA.

There will be no other refunds or transfers. Any refunds or transfers sought will be considered at American Arts Film & Television Academy, LLC sole discretion.

PLEASE ACKNOWLEDGE YOU UNDERSTAND ALL OF THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT BY SIGNING BELOW:

AMERICAN ARTS FILM AND TELEVISION ACADEMY, LLC POLICY, CANCELLATIONS/ CHANGES

COACHING & CURRICULUM CHANGES

Coaching staff and curriculum content will be at the sole discretion of American Arts Film & Television Academy, LLC and/or its staff. Whilst all efforts will be made to offer the teacher, venue or class day/time as specified in advertisements, AAFTA LLC reserves the right to substitute any teacher, venue or class day/time. Where such change to the teacher, venue or class day/time is made, AAFTA is not responsible for any loss or cost to the student associated with any such change. Any variation in the coaching/teaching/extracurricular hours will be at the sole discretion of American Arts Film & Television Academy, LLC and/or its staff.

CLASS CANCELATION BY AAFTA

American Arts Film & Television Academy, LLC reserves the right to alter/cancel any program prior to commencement or part way through. If the cancellation is made by AAFTA before any program course fees paid will be refunded in full. Any cancellation on behalf of AAFTA made part way through a program, will result in refunds being offered for any classes not held, or alternative make up classes will be scheduled. Where alterations to programs including dates may occur, refunds are ONLY an option if alternative solutions cannot be reached. This refund will ONLY be for payments made after the initial deposit. 

MANDATORY TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance MUST be purchased upon acceptance into program and cover you for items such as: Course cancellations/alternations, flight cancellations/alterations, medical costs in the US, COVID-19, lost items etc. AAFTA is not responsible for ensuring you are covered in any circumstances such as these. Depending on time of travel vaccinations might be a requirement for travel, and entry into the United States. Proof of such vaccinations have previously been required by venues across Los Angeles and the United States. Pending Federal, State and Local Government Laws, AAFTA reserves the right to update this clause in accordance with CDC mandates and guidance. Therefore, vaccinations and records are recommended. 

ABSENCE BY STUDENT

Sessions unattended are forfeited and no credits will be issued.

Students MUST attend at least 80% of the course. Failure to do so may lead to suspension from any showcase/s including but not limited to; agent, manger and casting showcases, end of semester theatre showcase and graduating taping/materials. Exceptions can be made if the student is medically (physically or mentally) unable to complete the classes required.

If serious medical circumstances occur, substantial proof (including doctors certificate) must be provided to AAFTA for your place in the program to be deferred until such time as health returns. In these circumstances, the entire program must be paid for prior to the deferral, unless an amendment granted by AAFTA. In the event that deferral due to health reasons is not retrieved there will be NO FURTHER refunds issued. Deferral into another program can only be taken within the following 12 months.

There can be no withdrawal from the AAFTA programs after their commencement. Fees must be paid in full prior to departure of course.

FORFEITURE OF CLASSES & FEES

Students understand and agree they will no longer be permitted to attend any classes, and without the right to a refund, without any notice, if they:

(1) Fail to meet the attendance requirement. 
(2) Engages in any lewd, unethical, fraudulent, criminal and/or immoral conduct;
(3) Pose a threat of any kind and/or causes any harm or damage to themselves or anyone associated with AAFTA or to any property of AAFTA and/or its employees, agents or students;(4) Arrested, incarcerated or in any way the subject of or person of interest in any investigation. 

FORCE MAJEURE

Any delay or failure in the performance by AAFTA hereunder shall be excused if and to the extent caused by the occurrence of a Force Majeure. For purposes of this Agreement, Force Majeure shall mean a cause or event that is not reasonably foreseeable or otherwise caused by or under the control of the Party claiming Force Majeure, including acts of God, fires, floods, explosions, riots, wars, hurricane, sabotage terrorism, vandalism, accident, restraint of government, governmental acts, injunctions, labor strikes, that prevent ECA from providing services, and other like events that are beyond the reasonable anticipation and control of the Party affected thereby, despite such Party's reasonable efforts to prevent, avoid, delay, or mitigate the effect of such acts, events or occurrences, and which events or the effects thereof are not attributable to a Party's failure to perform its obligations under this Agreement. Please be advised that, as an international student, it is your responsibility to be aware of and understand the international laws and regulations that you are subject to. 

AAFTA’S DUTIES & RIGHTS

American Arts Film & Television Academy, LLC will endeavor to provide schedules to students a minimum of one week prior to class commencement. This will endure for the duration of the program. Due to the nature of the course, changes to these schedules may occur, and students MUST prioritize these changes. There will be a 24-hour window for students to adjust to any changes in the schedule.

American Arts Film & Television Academy, LLC aims to aide you throughout the duration of the program. Whilst all efforts are made to be available to you, please note our staff can be very busy so please contact your course coordinator with any/all concerns.

AAFTA is not responsible for ensuring students have accommodation. Whilst every effort is made to assist you, if a significant solution cannot be reached, AAFTA reserves the right to cease all accommodation assistance. Should you choose to change accommodations whilst in Los Angeles, AAFTA must be notified of the address and changes MUST NOT impact on the course completion.

AAFTA will not be liable for any accommodation inhabitability. AAFTA MUST approve all accommodations prior to course commencement.

Whilst AAFTA does not discriminate, students must inform AAFTA of any physical or mental disabilities that may inhibit a student from completing their program. AAFTA will make every effort to ensure that all needs are accommodated; this includes accessibility for people with disabilities. Should AAFTA be unable to accommodate, affected students will be notified, and alternative arrangements will be made. Failure to inform AAFTA of any of the above, will result in immediate expulsion and/or suspension from any AAFTA program. AAFTA encourages students to have additional funds put aside should any mental health issues arise and the need to meet with psychologists or psychiatrists is required. AAFTA students will be able to complete their program as long as they are seeking the appropriate treatments and they are not a danger to themselves or others. Please note: You MUST Inform your travel agent of any pre-existing conditions prior to obtaining your insurance. This protects you in case of any issues that may occur whilst completing the program.

AAFTA has right to remove any student should they pose a danger or threat to themselves, other students or any AAFTA associate or staff member. This may include but is not limited to verbal, physical, emotional, written and online etc.

AAFTA has the right to expel or suspend students for any inappropriate behavior against our code of conduct.

Any person who fails to complete an AAFTA Application Form prior to any program will not be allowed to attend AAFTA classes, even if fees have been paid, until AAFTA has received a signed Application.

DEPOSITS/ REFUNDS/ TRANSFERS

On acceptance into the program, students are required to pay a $2200USD NON-REFUNDABLE deposit within 14 days; if not paid within 14 days, student’s place in the program will be forfeited.

There will be no reimbursement or refunds to any student who is suspended or expelled from any AAFTA program.

Payment plans are available to all students. Payment plan agreements must be adhered to at all times. There will be no amendments to payment plans, unless significant evidence can be provided, and at the discretion of AAFTA. Any payments not received by set dates will incur a 10% interest fee. For payments made more than 14 days late a further 10% interest fee will be added and so on, until the amount has been paid in full. If full payment is not received within 28 days, AAFTA reserves the right to charge credit cards on file, which will incur an additional $20.00 service fee. No further payment plans will be offered if the original plan is breached. 

Should contract be breached, AAFTA reserves the right to engage in litigation.

DISPUTES

If any dispute arises outside of this Agreement, both Parties shall negotiate in good faith to settle such dispute. If the parties cannot resolve such disputes themselves, then either party may submit the dispute to mediation by a mediator approved by both parties. If the parties cannot agree with any mediator or if either party does not wish to abide by any decision of the mediator, they shall submit the dispute to arbitration by any mutually acceptable arbitrator, or the American Arbitration Association (AAA). The costs of the arbitration proceeding shall be borne according to the decision of the arbitrator, who may apportion costs equally or in accordance with any finding of fault or lack of good faith of either party. If either party does not wish to abide by any decision of the arbitrator, they shall submit the dispute to litigation. The jurisdiction for any dispute shall be administered in the State of California. 

 

PLEASE ACKNOWLEDGE YOU UNDERSTAND ALL OF THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT BY SIGNING BELOW:

**If under 18, the following must be completed by a legal parent or guardian. 

CODE OF CONDUCT 

American Arts Film & Television Academy, LLC expects full attendance at all classes for students to gain the most benefit from the program, and that students are professionally engaged for said classes. If a student is experiencing problems it is imperative to contact the course coordinator as the problems arise. 

Students must adhere to the AAFTA Code of Conduct (below) and understand that they are representatives of AAFTA. If the Code of Conduct is disregarded, or if a student continually disrupt classes, they will be asked to leave the program without any financial penalty to AAFTA.

Participants MUST

• Sign into every program each day of classes;
• Advise the Program Director, relevant teacher or class supervisor personally if they cannot attend, need to leave early or are running late before the class begins;
• Teachers reserve the right to lock the door at the start of class to avoid disruption to their teaching. If this occurs, students must wait outside the room until they are invited into the class without disrupting the class by knocking, calling or texting anyone in the room;
• Learn ALL scripts provided to them and present each one professionally at the time of the workshop or class. Where no scripts are provided we expect students to come to class prepared and ready to fully engage in the process. If students attend class unprepared on at least three occasions, they will be issued with a written warning. Any further instances of unprofessional behavior as stated above may result in expulsion from the program without financial compensation to the student or loss to American Arts Film & Television Academy, LLC;
• Work in a collaborative spirit: Often in film/TV roles, you will be cast alongside individuals that you do not care for; this may also be the case during class. We expect professionalism in class, as any employer would expect on set. If students do not behave in a professional manner, they will be given a written warning. If the behavior continues after the warning, they may be asked to leave the program without financial compensation to the student or loss to AAFTA;
• Be supportive. As actors we can often feel insecure. The classroom is a learning environment and as such all students should feel respected and safe to explore their creativity;
• Be respectful of the studio space and all property within it, along with other users of the studio space;
• Adhere to the guidelines and contracts set out by American Arts Film & Television Academy, LLC in the student guides.

Participants must NOT

• Discriminate against or harass colleagues, students, teachers or members of the public on a number of grounds including: sex, marital status, pregnancy, age, race, ethnic or national origin, physical or intellectual impairment, sexual preference or political or religious conviction. Such harassment or discrimination may constitute an offence under the Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 and may result in expulsion from the program without financial compensation to the student or loss to American Arts Film & Television Academy, LLC;
• Arrive in class under the influence of alcohol or hallucinatory or social drugs of any kind;
• Be disrespectful to fellow students or teachers which includes but is not limited to continual lateness to class, prior non-disclosure of attendance to class, language deemed offensive by teachers and/or class associates;
• Engage in any social activities that affect course completion. AAFTA requires all students to always be professional and keep personal issues/feelings away from the classroom and any social activities where all students are present.

PLEASE ACKNOWLEDGE YOU UNDERSTAND ALL OF THE TERMS OF THIS AGREEMENT BY SIGNING BELOW: 

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

The following must be organized by students prior to departure for the USA. American Arts Film & Television Academy, LLC cannot take responsibility for these as conditions vary for each person;

 

Passport (If Required)

Students are responsible for ensuring that their passport is up to date and valid for entry in and out of the United States. Students must be aware of the rules and regulations relating to their own passports.

 

Visa

Students must be aware of the rules and regulations around Visas and entry into the United States. Should you have any potential restrictions, or need advice/help please contact AAFTA Staff. Please note VISA’s are additional costs and paid directly to the US Consulate on the day of your interview. These fees are not associated with AAFTA.

 

Travel Exemptions During Epidemics Such As COVID-19

Your home country may requires exemptions to leave during a panademic. Whilst AAFTA will assist in providing documents for such exemptions, it is the sole responsibility of the student to ensure exemption is obtained prior to departure. AAFTA takes no responsibility for exemptions that are denied.

 

Healthcare

We strongly advise travel and health insurance to be purchased prior to departure. If you choose not to purchase insurance, we cannot assist you in the case of accident or emergency. Many insurers currently do not cover any claims pertaining to the Corona-19 pandemic. It is the student’s responsibility to research insurance companies, and ensure they are appropriately covered.

For international students we advised that health care availability is extremely limited in the USA. 

Examples of insurers that currently cover Covid-19 are: Bupa Worldwide, Cat 70, HTH Worldwide, Tin Leg, USI Affinity, AXA Assistance, Trawick International, and Travel Safe.

We also recommend ‘Cancellation Cover’ so that if you are forced to return home, you may be able to claim the cost of your course fees and accommodation.

 

Flights/Transfers

Students are responsible for booking and purchasing their own flights and airport transfers. We suggest booking these flights as soon as possible to ensure that the best prices are available. Student flight programs are always great for savings. 

 

Living Expenses/Spending Money

Students are required to pay for their own meals, transport, and personal expenses for the duration of the program. Students should consider the exchange rate when determining the amount required. As a guide, you can expect to spend $USD 75 - $USD150 per week on food depending on whether you eat out or cook your own meals. Transport can cost $USD50-$USD100 per week depending on whether you travel/sightsee or stay at home, and whether you take transport or rent a car. Social activities could be up to $USD100 per week. This comes to up to $USD350 per week. ** Please consider the exchange rate in calculating funds required for the duration of your stay.

***Additional expenses to consider are extracurricular classes outside of AAFTA include memberships (AIF) (up to $USD150 per week), headshot shoot ($USD250-500), headshot prints for networking purposes ($USD100) sightseeing and shopping. AAFTA will endeavor to arrange studio tours and may be able to negotiate free entry, but any reduced rates or entry fees payable are the responsibility of students (up to $USD300).

 

Transport

While AAFTA endeavors to hold classes in our locations close to accommodation, this is not always possible. Where transport is required to attend classes, students are responsible for this cost. Transport approximately $USD 30 per day, which can be shared amongst up to 4 people. Uber/Lyft is a very popular and safe option that requires the user to download an app and must be paid for with a credit/debit card. Public transport is also available.

* Please ensure you have a credit card applicable to use over in USA. Otherwise, we advise setting up UBER/LYFT prior to departure.

rentalcars.com provide a great service with renting vehicles. You can opt to rent your own car or share expenses with those living with you in your apartment. Should you need contacts please don't hesitate to contact your course director.
*Please ensure you have FULL insurance provided with this car.

 

Materials

Students should bring with them electronic copies of headshots and CVs so that they may be printed if required for networking purposes. They should also be emailed to AAFTA prior.

 

Mobile Phones/Internet

Students are required to be contactable by staff at all times and need to provide details as soon as possible to assistant@aafta.us SIM cards can be purchased through a range of providers in Australia at competitive rates or on arrival in the US. Low-cost plans are available from carriers like T-Mobile, Verizon, AT&T and more.

Internet is often included in the accommodation; however, students should consider purchasing a mobile Internet package for the duration of their stay. Students should be always contactable.

 

Outside Events and Classes

We encourage students to attend classes or workshops outside of our studio whist in Los Angeles but note that these must not clash with our schedule of classes (including any last-minute schedule changes). We also note that students are always representing AAFTA (including at studio visits and other organized activities) and as such must always adhere to our code of conduct. Any outside classes needs to be approved of by AAFTA prior to purchase.

 

Coaching Sessions/Self Tapes

Quite often the opportunity for students to work without coaches one on one occurs, this may be in relation to self-tapes for managers or just for development of skills. Please ensure you budget for this in your savings. Sessions range from $50 to $200 per hour depending on the coach. Any outside coaching needs to be approved of by AAFTA prior to purchase.

 

Scripts/Printing Materials

Students are required to print out scripts for classes prior to attendance. AAFTA suggests purchasing printers and paper prior to the course commencement and perhaps looking into nearby locations that can also print, in case of any issues. The studio will also have a printer in case of emergency only and for a small fee.

 

Classroom Conduct

No laptops, mobile phones, iPads or similar devices are allowed in or during class times unless specifically required for class content (i.e., recording devices). Students will be instructed to leave class if their use of such devices is deemed disruptive and they do not comply with requests to discontinue use. If students continually disregard this rule, American Arts Film & Television Academy, LLC reserves the right to implement their dismissal from the program, with no financial penalty to American Arts Film & Television Academy, LLC.

Students must adhere to the AAFTA Code of Conduct and understand that they are representatives of AAFTA. If the Code of Conduct is disregarded by any student, AAFTA reserves the right to discontinue any classes to that student without any financial penalty to AAFTA. Students will be marked on attendance and anything less than 80% will be considered a failure to complete the program.

 

Medical Conditions

Students must advise AAFTA of any medical conditions (e.g. allergies, diabetes, epilepsy, asthma (provide asthma plan), current/chronic illness, disability (mental/physical), learning difficulty (eg dyslexia), pregnancy, or any special requirements as well as next of kin and emergency contact numbers.

AAFTA takes no responsibility for conditions that we have not been made aware of. I agree all the information provided on this contract is true and agreed to by:

If a student is under 18, this contract MUST be signed by their legal parent or guadian.