F-2 dependents may only engage in part-time study that is avocational or recreational in nature. An F-2 dependent violates his/her nonimmigrant status by engaging in full time study at a university. (We anticipate the same ruling will be announced for J-2 dependents once the Department of State issues it's new SEVIS rule for J-1 students and J-2 dependents. However, we do not yet have this rule, so we do not know for sure).
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> The INS has given F-2 dependents already engaged in full time study until March 11, 2003 to submit an F-1 change of status application, if they are interested in continuing to pursue full-time study in a legal fashion. Such students can register full-time this Spring 2003 semester but must submit a change of status application so that the INS receives it on or before March 11 of next year. Part-time study is permissible but must be recreational or avocational in nature. This means that an F-2 dependent is not permitted to pursue a degree, even on a part-time basis; to do so would violate his/her legal status in the US as seeking a degree is not avocational or recreational in nature. F-2 dependents need to plan accordingly. Seek advice from ISS by visiting the office during walk-in times or by scheduling an appointment.
It said:"On December 11, 2002 the INS will release a final rule affecting F-1 students and F-2 dependents. It will become effective on January 1, 2003. "