Is it allowed to take high school or college courses in the US while on a tourist visa? I've heard mixed information about the legality and options available. Insights from those who know the rules would be appreciated.
Technically, the U.S. government policy is that individuals on a B1/B2 tourist visa aren't allowed to enroll in a course of study. This means that under a tourist visa, full-time study leading to a degree or a diploma is definitely not allowed.
However, the U.S. government makes an exception for what's termed "recreational study". Recreational study refers to a class or course that's not for credit towards a degree or academic certificate. It could be a hobby class, like pottery or horseback riding, for instance.
If you are planning on studying full-time in the U.S., you would have to apply for an F-1 or M-1 student visa, depending upon whether your course of study is academic (like in a college or university, which requires F-1) or vocational (like in a technical or trade school, which requires M-1).
Violating the terms of your visa can result in serious repercussions, including deportation and/or being barred from entering the U.S. in the future. So it is always advisable to follow the stipulations of your visa and consult with an immigration attorney if there's any confusion.
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