Applying to The Blackbird Academy
Applications may be submitted 24-hours a day online. Class sizes are limited and tend to fill up quickly. Upon receipt of your completed application, we contact you by email and send an application process sheet which explains all other documents needed for acceptance. If you do not hear from us within three business days after submitting your online application, please email carma@theblackbirdacademy.com to be sure your application was received.
Entrance Requirements
You must have a minimum of a high school diploma or GED-equivalent to apply to The Blackbird Academy. Prospective students must submit the most recent copy of their high school transcripts or GED with their admission application. Online High School or GED courses may not be acceptable. Please check with the Director of Student Operations for more information.
Due to the advanced nature of The Blackbird Academy’s program, basic audio knowledge and/or experience in the audio recording and/or live sound field, is highly recommended. Letters of recommendation are required. Students applying will be interviewed in person or by phone, and must pay an appropriate deposit to hold a seat, which applies to the cost of enrollment.
International Student Admission Requirements
The Blackbird Academy is approved through the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Qualified international students will receive an M-1 Student Visa.
Monetary requirements
In order to be awarded a U.S. Student Visa (I-20), an international student must provide a certificate of financial guarantee. This document demonstrates the ability of a student to provide financial support for tuition and living expenses while in the United States.
VISA Requirements
The following documents are required for international students to enroll at The Blackbird Academy:
- An I-20 form
- A DS-160 Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application
- A passport recognized by the U.S., valid at least six months beyond the intended stay in country
- One 2×2 photograph
- An MRV fee receipt to demonstrate payment of visa application fee
- A SEVIS I-901 fee receipt
If you have any questions, please call +1.615.385.2423 or toll-free at +1.855.385-3251 or send a message via our contact form.
Tuition
The Blackbird Academy tuition includes studio/lab fees as well as an iPad with all textbooks & educational materials provided on it.
| Program | Tuition | Length of Program |
|---|---|---|
| Studio Engineering | $23,100 | 6 Months |
| Live Sound Engineering | $23,100 | 6 Months |
Veterans Benefits
The Blackbird Academy is approved by the Tennessee State Approval Agency for the training of Veterans and their eligible dependents.
Veteran benefits include:
• Chapter 30 MGIB
• Chapter 31 (VocRehab)
• Chapter 32 VEAP (Vietnam Educational Assistance Program)
• Chapter 33 Post-9/11
Dependents and spouses benefits include:
• Chapter 33 Post-9/11 TEB (Transfer of Eligible Benefits)
• Chapter 35 DEA (Dependent Educational Assistance)
Helpful Info
Before you are eligible to start classes, The Blackbird Academy must receive a copy of your Certificate of Eligibility (COE) as well as a copy of your DD-214
It takes approximately 60-120 days for the VA Office to approve claims for benefits and issue your COE. The earlier you prepare and submit your paperwork, the more likely you are to receive your benefits in a timely manner.
Housing
Students may make living arrangements with one of the many apartments near The Blackbird Academy. We have agreements with several local complexes where students may find a lease that coincides with their stay at the school. You may obtain a list of local housing references from the Director of Student Operations, which will help guide you through the many choices. A roommate list also may be obtained from the Director of Student Operations if you would like a roommate while attending The Blackbird Academy.
Postsecondary Education
The Blackbird Academy is authorized for operation as a postsecondary education institution by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission. In order to view detailed job placement and graduation information on the programs offered by The Blackbird Academy, please visit www.tn.gov/thec and click on the Authorized Institutions Data link under Recent Reports at the bottom of the screen.