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Welcome to our English language school! We are delighted to have you join our diverse international community. This comprehensive handbook outlines the key policies and expectations for F-1 visa international students as you embark on your educational journey with us.
Please review these guidelines carefully, as they are designed to ensure your academic success while maintaining your legal status in the United States. This handbook serves as your essential resource for navigating academic requirements and cultural adjustments during your time with us.
The following sections cover essential information, including attendance requirements, academic calendar, class schedules, code of conduct expectations, student rights and responsibilities, procedures for addressing concerns, health insurance information, financial policies, vacation options, and appropriate school attire. You will also find helpful answers to frequently asked questions from international students.
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Antares is an Intensive English program committed to providing a complete English education. We provide students with experiences in academic settings while striving to give students experience in the social settings that make an English education complete. Our goal is to ensure that our students flourish in not only the important realm of academics, but also increase their professional and social skills. Our program is designed to focus on the core of English language instruction, as well as culture, customs, and the complexity of modern communication!At Antares Metrowest, we offer an exceptional education combined with transformative learning experiences that foster growth and confidence in every student.
Education goes beyond academics — it encompasses the development of the whole person. Our approach recognizes each student's unique aspirations, equipping them with the tools to unlock their full potential. Whether you are pursuing academic excellence, personal growth, or professional advancement, our supportive environment provides the essential resources and guidance for your success.
Students form the heart of our community, and their achievements drive our mission. We cultivate an environment of joy, pride, and inclusivity where every individual feels valued and motivated to contribute to our dynamic school family. Antares Metrowest is not just a learning institution — it's where ambitions take root and futures flourish with purpose and support.
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Our administrative offices are open Monday to Thursday, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, and on Fridays and Saturdays, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
For detailed contact information or to schedule an appointment, please visit our reception desk or call the main student service line at (689) 206-1851.
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As an F-1 student, adjusting to life in Orlando offers exciting opportunities and new experiences. This guide will help you navigate your new home while maintaining your legal status.
Our Ambassador team is available to help you navigate any challenges during your stay in Orlando. Schedule a consultation with our office for personalized assistance with housing, transportation, or cultural adjustment issues.
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Maintaining proper attendance is a mandatory requirement for all F-1 visa holders. International students are expected to attend all scheduled classes and actively participate in academic activities.
To remain in good academic standing and maintain F-1 immigration status, students must maintain a minimum of 75% attendance per academic term. This requirement applies to all class schedules and formats offered by the school.
While the minimum attendance percentage is the same for all students, the number of allowed absences varies according to the length of the academic term and the total number of classes scheduled.
Attendance is calculated based on a maximum threshold of 25% absences per academic term, which ensures compliance with the required minimum of 75% attendance.
Because academic terms may vary in length and number of scheduled classes, there is no fixed number of allowed absences. Students are responsible for calculating their own limit based on the total number of classes scheduled for the term.
Total number of classes scheduled for the term × 0.25 = maximum allowed absences
What determines the student's academic and immigration status is the final attendance percentage, not simply the raw number of absences recorded.
For students enrolled in the 2-day-per-week format, each class day is divided into two instructional periods:
Attendance is recorded as follows:
Students are required to arrive on time, remain for the entire duration of the class, and actively participate in academic activities.
All new F-1 students must attend the mandatory orientation and the first week of classes in order to confirm enrollment. Students who fail to attend orientation or any class during the first week, without prior notice, may be classified as "No-Show," dismissed from the program, and reported in SEVIS, as required by SEVP regulations.
Classroom attendance and participation are essential for academic success. Insufficient attendance may directly affect grades, level progression, and academic eligibility. Students who fail the same level twice due to poor academic performance or insufficient attendance may be dismissed from the program.
When initial attendance concerns are identified, the school may issue an informal warning (message, email, or text). If the issue persists, the student will receive a formal written warning issued by the Academic Coordinator or Center Director, and will be placed on Attendance Probation in the following academic term.
During the probationary term, the student must maintain a minimum of 80% attendance. Failure to meet this requirement may result in dismissal from the program and termination of the SEVIS record.
All absences must be entered weekly into the school's official student management system. This consistent documentation ensures compliance with SEVIS reporting requirements for F-1 students.
Students experiencing health or transportation difficulties must notify the school immediately. Excused absences, when properly documented (such as valid medical documentation) and approved by the school, do not count toward the 75% attendance requirement. Attendance responsibility, however, always rests with the student.
Remember: maintaining attendance is not just a school policy — it is a federal requirement for maintaining valid F-1 visa status. Communicate proactively with staff about any attendance challenges.
Our academic year is divided into three terms, with varying durations to provide a flexible and focused learning experience.
January 5 to April 11
April 20 to July 18
August 31 to December 5
Students should consult the detailed calendar for specific dates, including holidays, exam periods, and annual breaks.
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We offer flexible scheduling options to suit your needs. All options total 18 hours per week.
All programs offer the same weekly workload of 18 hours, allowing you to choose the format that best fits your routine.
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Our language school is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive, and productive learning environment. All students, regardless of their background or nationality, must adhere to specific behavioral standards that support effective language acquisition and cultural exchange. The following code of conduct outlines our expectations for appropriate behavior within our academic community.
At the core of our code of conduct is mutual respect and a commitment to creating an optimal learning environment. All students are expected to maintain professional decorum in all school-related activities and interactions.
Violations of the code of conduct will be addressed through a progressive disciplinary process designed to correct behavior while providing appropriate support. Specific consequences depend on the severity and frequency of infractions and may include the application of absence in the system, as stated in the school's attendance policy. If the problem persists, the student may be expelled, following the progressive disciplinary process detailed below.
Initial minor infractions result in a private conversation with the instructor or administrator
Repeated or more serious violations lead to formal documentation
Continued misconduct results in probationary status with specific improvement requirements
Severe violations or failure to improve during probation may result in dismissal
The school administration reserves the right to expedite this process for serious infractions such as harassment, threats, or illegal activities. All disciplinary actions are documented in the student's record and, when relevant to visa status, may be communicated to appropriate immigration authorities.
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Our school is committed to providing a focused and secure learning environment for all students. This commitment extends to ensuring the safety of all individuals on campus and maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements, particularly concerning international students.
For the safety and optimal learning environment of all students, children are generally not permitted to accompany students into classrooms during instructional hours. This policy helps minimize distractions, ensures the safety of minors, and prevents potential disruptions to the educational process.
The presence of unattended minors on school premises poses significant safety and liability risks. Our facilities and programs are designed for adult learners, and we do not have the staff or resources to provide supervision or ensure the safety of children. Students bringing children to campus do so at their own risk and assume full responsibility for any incidents or injuries that may occur.
For F-1 international students, it is crucial to understand that their visa status is granted for full-time academic engagement. Bringing children into the classroom or otherwise allowing them to interfere with study commitments could be interpreted as a failure to maintain full-time student status, potentially jeopardizing their SEVIS record and visa compliance. Students are responsible for arranging suitable childcare that does not impact their attendance or ability to focus on their studies.
We understand that unforeseen emergencies may arise. In rare and unavoidable circumstances where a student must bring a child to school due to an emergency, they must notify the school administration immediately to discuss potential temporary arrangements. Such exceptions will be handled on a case-by-case basis and require prior approval, with the understanding that the student remains solely responsible for the child's supervision and conduct.
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All students at our institution are entitled to certain fundamental rights, while also being expected to uphold specific responsibilities. Understanding these rights and responsibilities is essential for creating a respectful and productive educational environment.
Every student has the right to equal treatment, regardless of race, color, nationality, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, or disability. The institution is committed to providing an inclusive environment where all students can learn without discrimination.
Students have the right to privacy regarding their educational records and personal information. The institution complies with all applicable privacy laws and will not disclose student information to unauthorized parties without consent.
Students have the right to fair and accessible grievance procedures when they believe their rights have been violated. The institution provides clear channels for addressing concerns and seeking resolution.
The institution maintains a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and discrimination. All members of our educational community are expected to contribute to an environment of mutual respect and understanding.
Our institution prohibits discrimination in all forms. This includes, but is not limited to, discrimination based on race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, disability, gender, sexual orientation, or age. All students are entitled to equal opportunities and treatment in all aspects of their educational experience.
Students who experience or witness discrimination or harassment should report incidents promptly. Reports can be submitted to:
All reports are taken seriously and thoroughly investigated, protecting the privacy of all parties involved.
Students who violate anti-discrimination policies are subject to disciplinary action in accordance with the procedures outlined in the Code of Conduct. The institution is committed to providing supportive resources for affected students and to addressing all incidents promptly and fairly.
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Our institution values transparent communication and the fair resolution of student concerns. We recognize that disagreements or issues may arise during your educational journey, and we have established a structured process to address such matters efficiently and equitably. All students have the right to express their concerns without fear of retaliation or adverse consequences to their academic performance.
The first step in addressing any concern is to attempt resolution directly with the involved party. Whether your issue relates to a grade, classroom policy, or interpersonal matter, begin by scheduling a private conversation with the instructor or staff member concerned. Many misunderstandings can be resolved through open dialogue at this stage. Document this conversation, including the date, participants, and outcomes.
If direct resolution is unsuccessful, the next step is to submit a formal written complaint to the Academic Coordinator. Your submission should include a detailed account of the issue, documentation of your attempt at direct resolution, and your desired outcome. The Academic Coordinator will review your case within five business days and schedule a meeting to discuss potential solutions.
In situations where resolution cannot be achieved at the coordinator level, you may escalate your concern to the School Director. This escalation must be submitted in writing and include all documentation, correspondence, and a clear explanation of why previous resolution attempts were unsatisfactory. The Director serves as the final internal authority on student matters.
For all formal complaints and appeals, proper documentation is essential. Your written submission must include:
All submissions must be in English. If needed, translation assistance can be requested from the International Student Office, though this may extend the response timeline.
The school commits to reviewing all properly submitted complaints within five business days, though complex issues may require additional time for thorough investigation. Students will receive confirmation of receipt and regular updates throughout the resolution process.
Please note that this process is designed for legitimate academic and administrative concerns. Issues related to harassment, discrimination, or safety should be immediately reported to the School Director and may involve different protocols, as outlined in our safety policies.
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Antares Metrowest strongly recommends that all international students maintain health insurance or a medical plan while in the U.S.
The school does not receive any commission for health plan referrals but provides this information as a service to students.
Ideal national coverage for students who:
Accessible local medical assistance with no deductible. Features Portuguese/Spanish-speaking staff and direct access to Orlando services.
Benefits:
Cost: $59/month
Clinic Information:
💡 Good for local primary care, but does not replace travel/emergency insurance.
Specialized agents can assist in choosing the most suitable health plan for your needs and budget. For more information and assistance, you can contact:
Katia: (786) 899-9636
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Understanding the financial obligations and policies of your educational program is essential for proper planning and to avoid unexpected complications. Our tuition and refund policy is designed to be transparent, in compliance with the regulations governing programs for international students.
Tuition is due monthly on the first (1st) day of each calendar month. Invoices are sent on the 25th of the preceding month as advance notice of the charge. Students are responsible for contacting the School if they have not received an invoice before the due date; failure to receive an invoice does not relieve the student of the obligation to make timely payment.
Payments received after 11:59 p.m. (local time) on the due date automatically incur a $50 late fee. If the outstanding balance is not paid in full, additional late fees accrue as follows: an additional $25 thirty (30) days after the original due date; an additional $25 at sixty (60) days; an additional $25 at ninety (90) days; and, thereafter, an additional $25 every 30 days for as long as any portion of the balance remains unpaid. These fees are cumulative and are not intended as a penalty — they are intended to compensate the School for the administrative costs of delinquent accounts — and they are non-negotiable.
We offer two payment methods: Zelle and credit card. Students may save their credit card information for recurring monthly payments or set up recurring payments through Zelle. When paying via Zelle, the student's full name must be included in the payment notes so the School can identify the payment. Please note that any payment made from a third-party account (a business account or another person's account) will not be considered received unless the student notifies the School of the payment in advance, with the necessary identifying information.
The instructional materials fee refers to the standard cost of the educational materials used at each level. These materials are mandatory for classes and must be purchased at the beginning of each level or course. Please note that the amount may vary slightly depending on the pricing charged by the sales channel.
Failure to pay tuition within the established deadline may result in various administrative actions. After the due date, the automatic $50 late fee is assessed, followed by the cumulative $25 fees described above, regardless of the reason for non-payment or whether the invoice was received.
If the balance remains outstanding, the School may suspend the student's access to classes, academic services, materials, and other institutional resources until the financial situation is resolved.
If tuition remains unpaid by the tenth (10th) day of the month, Antares Metrowest may suspend classroom attendance or cancel the student's enrollment, which may result in administrative dismissal from the School.
For international students, dismissal due to the inability to maintain active enrollment because of non-payment requires a mandatory SEVIS update, which may result in the termination of F-1 status as required by federal regulations.
Submitting justifications or medical documentation does not replace financial obligations and does not prevent the School from applying these administrative measures.
Please note that no refunds are issued for missed classes due to absences, regardless of the reason. In addition, the School does not provide refunds for program interruptions caused by natural disasters, weather events, or other circumstances reasonably beyond the institution's control.
All refund requests must be submitted in writing using the Official Refund Request Form available at the Treasurer's Office or on the student portal. Verbal requests or emails without the proper form will not be processed. The form must include the student's full name, identification number, program details, and the specific reason for the refund request.
Approved refunds are typically processed within 14 business days of approval, within the School's normal administrative processing time. Refunds will be issued using the original payment method whenever possible. For credit card payments, refunds will be credited to the same card. For Zelle payments, a refund will be issued to the same account used for payment.
Students facing extreme hardships, such as serious medical conditions or family emergencies, may request exceptions to the standard refund policy. Such requests require substantial documentation and are reviewed by a committee on a case-by-case basis.
International students should be aware that changes in enrollment status, including those resulting from refunds, may affect visa status. Consult the International Students Office before requesting any refund that could reduce your course load below full-time enrollment status.

Our institution maintains a dress code that balances personal expression with professional standards appropriate for an academic environment. All students are expected to present themselves in attire that shows respect for the educational setting and the cultural sensitivities of our diverse community.
The fundamental expectation is that all clothing should be clean, in good condition, and appropriate for an educational setting. Personal hygiene must be maintained according to community standards, including regular bathing and the use of appropriate personal care products.
School administration reserves the right to determine whether specific attire violates these standards. Students found to be in violation may be asked to change or, if necessary, denied entry to class until the issue is resolved. Persistent violations of the dress code will be addressed through the standard disciplinary process.
While we acknowledge and respect cultural differences in attire, all students must strive to meet these basic standards while in the school environment. If you have questions about specific cultural attire, please consult the International Student Office for guidance.
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F-1 students become eligible for vacation after completing a minimum of two full academic terms (26 weeks) of continuous enrollment at Antares Metrowest. Students who begin their program in the middle of an academic term must also complete two full academic terms before taking their first vacation, even if 26 weeks of study have already been completed. Vacation periods must always begin at the start of a new academic term and may not begin in the middle of a term under any circumstances.
To be approved for vacation, students must meet all of the following requirements at the time of the request:
Students may take a maximum of one full academic term of vacation per academic year. Vacation must be taken as one complete, consecutive academic term. Partial, split, or adjusted vacations — including one-month or two-month periods — are not permitted under any circumstances.
Vacation requests must be submitted in writing no later than fifteen (15) calendar days before the end of the student's current academic term. Requests submitted after this deadline may be denied or postponed to the student's next eligible vacation period, at the School's discretion.
Vacation is considered approved only upon receipt of written confirmation by email from School Administration. The absence of an approval email means the request has not been granted. Students must not make travel arrangements or discontinue attendance without official written approval.
If any required payment is not received on time, Antares Metrowest reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to revoke, suspend, postpone, or cancel an approved vacation upon notification. If a vacation is revoked, suspended, postponed, or cancelled, the student must immediately resume or continue full-time attendance on the date designated by the School. Failure to return to classes as instructed may result in absences, disciplinary action, dismissal, and, when applicable, SEVIS action in accordance with federal regulations.
For each subsequent vacation, students must again complete a minimum of 26 weeks of continuous academic study before submitting a new vacation request.
During an approved vacation period, the student's SEVIS record remains active, maintaining valid F-1 status. Failure to return to classes on the scheduled return date may result in termination of the SEVIS record and loss of F-1 status.
Tuition remains due during approved vacation periods according to the regular monthly payment schedule. Vacation approval does not suspend or modify any financial obligations, and revocation or suspension of a vacation does not waive, reduce, postpone, or modify any outstanding financial obligations owed by the student.
Find detailed answers to the most common questions about Antares Metrowest policies and procedures, ensuring a clear understanding and a smooth academic experience.
You will receive a monthly invoice via email on the 25th of each month. Payment must be made within 7 days of receipt. A late fee of $25 will be applied after the due date. For any payment-related questions, please contact finances.metrowest@gmail.com.
Accepted Payment Methods:
We offer two convenient payment options:
Students can choose to save credit card information for recurring monthly payments or set up automatic payments via Zelle.
It is important to note that payments made using third-party accounts (business accounts or another person's account) will not be processed unless the school is notified in advance and receives the necessary identification information.
It is the student's responsibility to contact the school if they do not receive their invoice before the due date. Failure to receive the invoice does not exempt you from the responsibility of meeting payment deadlines.
Antares Metrowest requires all F-1 students to maintain a minimum attendance of 75% to comply with SEVP regulations and academic standards. This requirement is applied as follows:
Essential Attendance Policies:
Participation in orientation and the first week of class is mandatory. Absence without prior notification may result in disciplinary action.
A physical textbook and workbook is mandatory from the first day of each level. It can be purchased directly at our front desk
You will need to buy it per level, which implies purchasing a new textbook with each level advancement.
To request a transfer to another institution, you must complete the request through the request form, submitting the acceptance letter from the future school at least 14 days before the start date of the next month. Students must complete a minimum of 1 full term at Antares Metrowest before transferring, except in exceptional circumstances. If you wish to transfer before completing the first term, the remaining balance of the full term will be charged as a fee. Once these requirements are met, we can process your transfer within 72 hours of receiving the acceptance letter. We cannot process transfers for students with outstanding financial obligations.
Our program consists of 8 levels, ranging from basic to academic proficiency. Each level can be completed in one term. Students can repeat the same level twice and can fail a maximum of 3 levels before being subject to expulsion from the program.
Students must submit vacation requests through the student request form at least 14 days prior to the desired vacation term's start date. Students who start in the middle of a term must complete two full academic terms before becoming eligible for vacation, even if 26 weeks of study have already been completed. Vacation periods must always begin at the start of a new academic term and may not begin in the middle of a term under any circumstances."
To qualify for vacation, students must:
It is mandatory to take a full term to avoid interruptions that could lead to failing a level.
Upon approval, you will receive notification of your vacation start date and the mandatory return date, which will always be the first day of a new session.
We automatically process one-year extensions as your end date approaches, except in the following situations:
If you need an extension of a different duration or processed in advance, please contact us to discuss options. For early extension requests, please complete the student request form.
If you plan to conclude your studies, it is essential to inform us of the reason and your expected final class date. Fill out the request form and send us the necessary information. Be aware that if we terminate your SEVIS record before the completion of your program, you must leave the United States within 15 days, unless you have an approved change of status. If you are in the process of changing status, please verify if your records can be terminated before approval to avoid complications with your application.
You will need a waiver letter from our school to start the process. Follow these steps:
Important Resources:
Be prepared to take both the written and driving tests.
All students must use the Teach N Go student portal to access attendance records, assignments, grades, documents (including the I-20), and communications from the school and teachers. Immediate account creation is fundamental to your academic success.
You will receive an email from Teach N Go with detailed instructions to create your account and download the mobile application.
Important Note: All requests must be made exclusively through the Virtual Desk: https://antaresmetrowest.com/
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Find detailed answers to the most common questions about Antares Metrowest policies and procedures, ensuring a clear understanding and a smooth academic experience.
You will receive a monthly invoice by email on the 25th of each month. Payment must be made within 7 days of receipt. A late fee will be applied (as per contract) after the due date. For any payment-related questions, please contact finances.metrowest@gmail.com.
Accepted Payment Methods:
We offer two convenient payment options:
Students may choose to save their credit card information for recurring monthly payments or set up automatic payments via Zelle.
It is important to note that payments made using third-party accounts (business accounts or another person's account) will not be processed unless the school is notified in advance and receives the necessary identification information.
It is the student's responsibility to contact the school if they do not receive their invoice before the due date. Failure to receive the invoice does not exempt you from the responsibility of meeting payment deadlines.
Antares Metrowest requires all F-1 students to maintain a minimum attendance of 75% to comply with SEVP regulations and academic standards. This requirement is applied as follows:
Essential Attendance Policies:
Participation in orientation and the first week of class is mandatory. Absence without prior notification may result in disciplinary action.
A physical textbook and workbook is mandatory from the first day of each level. They can be purchased directly at our front desk (prices may vary depending on vendor availability).
You will need to obtain the learning materials for each level you take, which means purchasing new materials with each level advancement.
To request a transfer to another institution, you must complete the request through the request form. To avoid financial responsibility for the following month's tuition, the school must receive the completed transfer request no later than the fifteenth (15th) calendar day of the current month. Students must complete a minimum of 1 full term at Antares Metrowest before transferring, except in exceptional circumstances. If you wish to transfer before completing the first term, the remaining balance of the full term will be charged as a fee. Once these requirements are met, we can process your transfer within 72 hours of receiving the acceptance letter. We cannot process transfers for students with outstanding financial obligations.
Our program consists of 8 levels, ranging from basic to academic proficiency. Each level can be completed in one term. Students can repeat the same level twice and may fail a maximum of 3 levels before being subject to expulsion from the program.
Students must submit vacation requests through the request form. Students must submit vacation requests through the Official Student Request Form, available on the Virtual Desk, no later than fifteen (15) calendar days before the end of the student's current academic term. Requests submitted after this deadline will not be considered for the upcoming term. Eligibility for annual vacation begins after completing two full terms. Students who begin in the middle of a term must complete two full terms starting from their course start date.
To qualify for vacation, students must:
One full term of vacation must be taken each year. Split vacations are not permitted.
Upon approval, you will receive notification of your vacation start date and mandatory return date, which will always be the first day of a new session.
We automatically process one-year extensions as your end date approaches, except in the following situations:
If you need an extension of a different duration or processed in advance, please contact us to discuss options. For early extension requests, please complete the student request form.
If you plan to conclude your studies, it is essential to inform us of the reason and your expected final class date. Fill out the request form and send us the necessary information. Be aware that if we terminate your SEVIS record before the completion of your program, you must leave the United States within 15 days, unless you have an approved change of status. If you are in the process of changing status, please verify if your records can be terminated before approval to avoid complications with your application.
You will need a waiver letter from our school to start the process. Follow these steps:
Important Resources:
Be prepared to take both the written and driving tests.
All students must use the Teach N Go student portal to access attendance records, assignments, grades, documents (including the I-20), and communications from the school and teachers. Immediate account creation is essential to your academic success.
You will receive an email from Teach N Go with detailed instructions to create your account and download the mobile application.
Important Note: All requests must be made exclusively through the Virtual Desk: https://antaresmetrowest.com/
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Student Handbook