Studying in the US on an L2 Visa

I might be moving to the US with my family on an L2 visa and I want to continue my studies there. Does anyone know how the process works for minors on an L2 visa to enroll in US schools or colleges?

Welcome! As a dependent of an L-1 visa holder, you will obtain L-2 status, which allows you to study in the United States.

In terms of K-12 education, L-2 visa holders have the right to attend public or private schools in the U.S. Much like any American student, you would have to find a suitable school in the district where you reside and follow the enrollment directions provided by that school. The documents needed for enrollment may vary slightly by school or school district, but typically would include proof of residence in the district, immunizations records among others.

For college education, if you are interested in attending college in the US, you would apply for college the same way as an international student. It's crucial to remember that admission requirements can vary widely from school to school. They generally include elements like a strong academic record, extracurricular involvement, recommendations, standardized test scores and well-written essays.

Financially, some colleges may consider L-2 visa holders as international students which can impact your eligibility for financial aid. However, it varies among colleges, so you should reach out to the financial aid offices of the colleges you're interested in to learn more about their specific policies.

This is high-level information regarding studying in the U.S. under an L-2 visa, but it's advised to do thorough research and communicate with your designated school or college for detailed guidelines and procedures. It might be worth considering consulting a legal professional or educational consultant with specialized knowledge in this area to ensure you navigate the process correctly.