H4 Student International or Domestic

Student Lounge International Students
1

Hi all, I’m a H4 student who’s going to be applying to college this fall. I’ve lived in the US for 12 years, but I’m on a H4 visa, I don’t have a Social Security Number or Alien Registration Number. Am I going to be considered an International student, even though I’ve lived in America for 12 years?

2

There’s no black-and-white distinction between “domestic” and “international” applicants because many applicants, like yourself, fall partially into both camps. When you read college websites, you’ll want to read both the sections for domestic and international applicants because bits and pieces from each will apply to you. For example:

  • You went to an American high school, so you follow the application instructions for students educated in the US. (Applicants with foreign school records may need a bunch of additional documents, like translations, TOEFL scores, etc.)
  • H-4 status allows you to have a "domicile" in the US, which makes you generally eligible for in-state tuition status at public universities. Read the tuition policy to find out what else you need to qualify.
  • H-4 status will NOT qualify you for federal financial aid (FAFSA).
  • Your immigration status may or may not prevent you from qualifying for state-based financial aid, institutional (college-awarded) aid, and third-party scholarships. You will have to check with each potential funding source about their policies.

Unless you are close to obtaining your green card, you’ll also want to research the advantages and disadvantages of staying on your H-4 visa or switching to an F-1 student visa. F-1 students are allowed to pursue employment during college and for 1-3 years after graduation, but face other disadvantages compared to H-4 students (e.g. it’s harder for F-1 students to qualify for in-state tuition).

3

Would I be put at a “disadvantage” in the admissions process? International students typically have a lower acceptance rate than domestic students. If i apply to in-state universities would I receive the benefit of in-state selection (higher acceptance rates) or is this something that varies school to school?

4

@Lamar43 In-State vs. Out-of-State/International applicant status recognition at public universities for (some) non-immigrant visa categories varies by State. Check for the US State you/your parents have established residency.