If you are planning to study in the United States as an F or M student, you may decide to bring your dependents with you. Your dependents can include your spouse and/or children, if the children are unmarried and are under the age of 21.

To obtain nonimmigrant status for yourself and your dependents, there are important steps to take before bringing your dependents into the country. Remember, you must maintain your F or M student status throughout your program of study and any authorized period of practical training after completion. Your dependents are eligible for F-2 or M-2 status only while you remain in F-1 or M-1 status.

Once you decide to bring your dependents with you, carefully follow the five important steps below:

1. Notify your designated school official (DSO) at your Student and Exchange Visitor Program certified school.
2. Provide the DSO necessary personal information on your dependents, as well as yourself, and fill out any additional forms required by your school.
3. Receive a Form I-20, “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status,” for yourself and each of your dependents. Sign your Form I-20 and those of any dependents under 18. Dependents that are 18 or over must sign their own.
4. Apply for an F-2 or M-2 visa for each of your dependents at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
5. Comply with the education laws of your state, dependents may study at an elementary school or secondary programs if they are at an age of eligible enrollment.

For more information, visit our Dependents Resource Page.