Frequently Asked Questions

Our training is very intensive and our students spend most of their time here immersed in studying butling at our Academy, where they learn "on the job", in a real, large, exclusive private home. From the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, you will be fulfilling all the duties of a butler in a demanding household, all under the guidance of excellent instructors. Over the years, we have proven that our training methods work and clients often have more faith in our students than in butlers with many years of experience. Our graduates are successful in butling, service, and hospitality and have rewarding jobs in many countries worldwide.

Absolutely! We always encourage potential students to do their research and to do it well. What better way is there than to visit us and spend time with us and with our students? Do visit us if at all possible. We do request that you make an appointment beforehand.

Virtually every employment agency in the world recognizes the high standards represented by our diploma. One of our more important affiliations is with the exclusive International Guild of Professional Butlers. TIBA's 10-week training is also endorsed by the Institute of Hospitality and the City & Guilds in the UK.

We support our graduating students through our recruitment division, our extensive network, and our affiliated agencies. We do support and encourage students to find suitable employment on their own. Our Recruitment Director works with each student to help position with a successful entry into the private service workforce. Please look under our website's "Recruitment Agency" section for more detailed information.

We stay in close contact with you and your employer to ensure that both of you are satisfied. Upon request, we visit the employer at home, interview the employer and with you, assess the work situation, give advice, and so on. In any case, even with a simple telephone call, we ensure that you and the employer are satisfied.

TV networks and TV production companies invest a lot of money into their programs and documentaries, which are mostly copyrighted. You may try searching for them online.

Yes, we certainly can help. Students with a legitimate reason why they "must" be part of an officially full training program are often granted admission, provided the student has a valid reason to attend that program and writes a solid motivation letter.

The entire time spent at The International Butler Academy is a practical experience. Every day, each student can learn relevant skills through hands-on training and experiences. 

We take legal action from time to time as, unfortunately, there are many people in this profession with no morals or integrity. We hope that people searching for training or employers looking for staff will do their research and know to come to us.

Bringing a laptop with you is essential to do your homework, research, staying in touch with your family and friends, and perhaps play your favorite music. Of course, we provide free and fast wireless internet access. 

We have a fully equipped and professional laundry room, with washers and dryers you will typically only see at the dry cleaners. We also provide students with a steam iron, including sprays for ironing, an ironing board, clothes hangers, bed linen, and towels. 

 Yes, you may. Some restrictions apply, and some extra costs may occur.

Exchange rates differ from day to day. There are many currency converters to be found on the Internet. Here is one we use frequently.

You must speak and understand English and be at least 18. There are no requirements concerning prior education or experience. Both mean little to us. Age and gender are not important either. You must have the kind of service-oriented personality and character to be successful in private service. How can we determine this? We cannot. Even if we were to spend an entire day with you, we would not be able to. We do our best to evaluate your information, but ultimately, it is your decision. The easiest way to apply is to email us your resume (CV), a brief cover letter, and a recent photo.

Yes. The International Butler Academy is an officially registered training institute. Of the various registrations, the one with the Dutch CRKBO (www.crkbo.nl) is among the most important. This governing body examines, verifies, and registers private institutes, assuring that these institutes and their trainers comply with the highest standards of education and that appropriate policies are in place. Once an institute is registered with the CRKBO, the institute's students do not need to pay VAT (Value Added Tax), which is a considerable saving for the students. We are registered with the Chamber of Commerce, pay taxes, are regularly audited, and are affiliated with several professional organizations. The Institute of Hospitality also endorses the International Butler Academy. Lastly, virtually every placement agency in the world distinguishes us as the only proper professional butler school.

Butling is one profession where age is not important. Some employers prefer young staff, other employers prefer older staff. You must, however, be flexible, honest, discreet, hard-working, and loyal. These and similar qualities are much more important to a potential employer than your age.

Yes. It is important to us that you have your privacy during the training program. Your bedroom has a wonderful box-spring bed, quality linen, a study table, and even a safe where you can put your valuables.

The Graduation Ceremony at our Academy is a very special occasion. Of course, you wish your family and friends to be part of the celebrations. You may invite as many guests as you want.

We do not expect our students to read service-related books. In fact, we prefer that students come to us with an open mind, also because we believe that most books on the subject are not particularly very good. In case students wish to read books we have an extensive library at school containing many interesting books. Our library contains relevant films, documentaries, and TV series also. These materials may be borrowed upon request.