The Los Angeles Times reports that more students from China are studying at U.S. high schools, benefiting schools by paying tuition and internationalizing classrooms. F students who study at U.S. high schools also become better prepared to apply to colleges in the United States.

If you are interested in attending a U.S. high school, make sure you know the rules. The regulations for F students attending public high schools and private high schools are different. This is important to understand to maintain your status.

Here is what you need to know if you want to attend a public high school:

• You can attend only for a total of 12 months. You cannot enroll in one public school for one year and then enroll in the same or a different public school later.
• You must pay the full, unsubsidized cost of attendance in the school district before you apply for your F-1 visa and then present proof of payment at your visa appointment.

Here is what you need to know if you want to attend a private high school:

• There are no time limits for how long you can enroll, as long as you maintain your nonimmigrant student status.
• You must pay the annual tuition determined by your school.

If you finish high school in the United States and want to enroll in a post-secondary program of study, you must apply to transfer as an F-1 student. If you have questions, talk to your designated school official. For more information on kindergarten through grade 12 schools in the United States, visit our resource page.

Source:

• Chinese students a new funding source for U.S. high schools; Los Angeles Times

Regulations

• 8 CFR 214.2(f)(1)(i)(D)
• 8 CFR 214.2(f)(5)(i)-(ii)
• 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6)(i)(E)