I'm on an H4 visa and interested in higher studies in the USA. Can anyone guide me on what to keep in mind? I'm not sure how the visa status affects education and whether there are any specific limitations.
It's commendable that you are seeking to pursue higher studies here in the USA. Various factors should be taken into account when you're planning to study here on an H4 visa.
Firstly, having an H4 visa means you are a dependent of an H1-B visa holder, who is usually a specialized worker in the U.S. As an H4 visa holder, you are allowed to study at a U.S. university, either part-time or full-time. There are no specific restrictions regarding which colleges you can enroll in or which courses you can take.
Do bear in mind though, as an international student, the admission process may be slightly different. U.S. colleges might require additional documentation or tests. For instance, if English is not your first language, you might be asked to take an English proficiency examination like TOEFL or IELTS.
One of the major points to consider is the issue of in-state residency. H4 visa holders might not qualify for in-state tuition at public universities in certain states. Tuition costs for out-of-state residents are, on average, significantly higher. However, individual states and universities have varying policies, so it is essential to research this aspect for each institution you are considering.
Furthermore, there might be limited work opportunities. As an H4 dependent, you are usually not allowed to gain employment or engage in business while on this visa status. However, new regulations that came into effect in 2015 allowed certain H4 dependents to apply for employment authorization. It may be worth looking into whether you qualify for this authorization—especially if you're considering work-study programs.
Lastly, it's worth noting that starting a degree program in the U.S. doesn't guarantee you'll be able to finish it if your visa status changes; for example, if the main H1-B holder decides to return home or their status changes. Therefore, always consider having a back-up plan.
Hope this provides a base for you to start your college journey in the U.S. Make sure you understand everything, check with immigration advisors or university international offices if needed, and good luck!
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