Understanding International Student Education: A Legal Perspective

Definition & Meaning

An international student is an individual who is not a citizen, national, or lawful permanent resident of the United States. This person is in the U.S. temporarily and does not intend to become a permanent resident or citizen. Additionally, this definition includes individuals who are not legally admitted for permanent residence in certain U.S. territories, such as American Samoa or Guam.

Table of content

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A student from Canada comes to the U.S. to attend a university on a student visa. They are considered an international student, as they are not a U.S. citizen and do not intend to stay permanently.

Example 2: A student from Brazil studies in the U.S. under a temporary visa and plans to return home after completing their degree. This student is also classified as an international student.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
International Student A non-U.S. citizen studying temporarily in the U.S. Focuses on temporary educational status.
Permanent Resident A non-citizen who has been granted the right to live permanently in the U.S. Indicates a long-term residency status.
Visa Holder An individual with permission to enter and stay in the U.S. for a specific purpose. Can include various types of visas beyond student status.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are an international student, ensure you understand your visa requirements and maintain compliance with U.S. immigration laws. Consider using US Legal Forms for templates related to your situation, such as visa applications or school enrollment forms. If your case is complex or you have specific legal questions, consulting a legal professional is advisable.

Quick facts

Attribute Details
Typical Visa Type F-1 or J-1 visa
Duration of Stay Varies by program, typically for the duration of studies
Work Eligibility Limited; typically requires authorization

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

An international student is in the U.S. temporarily for education, while a permanent resident has the right to live in the U.S. indefinitely.