Studying in US public schools as an international student

I'm curious about whether international students can attend public high schools in the US. What are the steps and requirements for enrolling in a public school as an international student?

International students can indeed attend public high schools in the United States; however, public schools come with unique regulations under U.S. federal law.

An international student would first need to obtain an F-1 visa to study at a public high school in the U.S. But there are a few stipulations: under federal law, F-1 visa students attending public secondary institutions in the U.S. are restricted to a maximum of twelve months of study.

Furthermore, those students are required to reimburse the U.S. public high school for the entire cost of education upon arrival. What exactly this costs covers varies by state and school district, but typically, it can include expenditures in areas like instruction, administration, support services, and other miscellaneous school functions.

For applying, prospective students would typically need to provide identification documentation such as their birth certificate and passport, proof of residency, academic records, and health information showing they are up-to-date on their immunizations. English proficiency may also be required.

In terms of the steps to enroll, the student would first need to check the specific requirements of the public school in the district where they intend to live. They would then apply for the F-1 visa and, upon acceptance, pay the SEVIS I-901 Fee, apply to an embassy or consulate for a visa, and attend a visa interview.

While public school is an option, many international high schoolers instead choose to attend private high schools, which do not have limitations on duration of study for F-1 visa students.

Remember, it's important to carefully research and understand the implications of studying in the U.S. as an international student. Laws and policies can change, and it's crucial to ensure you get the most accurate and up-to-date information.