In the United States, formal, compulsory education begins at about age five or six years and includes grades kindergarten (K) through grade 12 (i.e. elementary and secondary school).

A minor F-2 or M-2 dependent must attend school at the appropriate level for grades K – 12, and may attend either public or private school.

An F student (i.e., not a dependent) may attend a private school for grades K-12. An F student may attend public secondary school for up to one year. An M student may attend up to one year of public vocational secondary school.

You can learn more about the rules and requirements for studying as a student or dependent at a K-12 school in the United States on our K-12 resource page.