International students can attend U.S. public schools, but they typically must do so under specific visa programs, such as the J-1 visa for exchange students. The J-1 visa allows students to participate in cultural exchange programs, including attending high school in the U.S. for a year. The cost is usually lower than other international student programs, making it an affordable option for those who want to experience life in the U.S. for a year.

Boston Global Education offers a High School J-1 program that can help students experience life in the U.S. at a relatively low cost. This program provides students with an opportunity to immerse themselves in American culture, education, and daily life. If you’re interested, this program could be an excellent option for international students seeking to spend a year in the U.S. while gaining valuable experience.

After completing their one-year J-1 visa experience, most students transfer to private schools to continue their education and complete high school in the U.S. This transition allows them to further immerse themselves in the academic environment, often in more competitive settings. The J-1 program provides an invaluable opportunity for international students to experience life in the U.S., and many choose to pursue private high school education afterward to continue their academic journey.

What F‑1 and J‑1 Visa Holders Need to Know

Many families studying early in the U.S. ask:
Can international students attend public schools?
Is it more affordable than private or boarding schools?
What visa rules apply?

This guide explains eligibility, limitations, costs, and alternatives for international students at U.S. public schools.

1. Yes—for a limited time and under strict conditions

F‑1 visa holders can attend public high school only, for up to one academic year, at full, unsubsidized tuition. They are not allowed in public elementary or middle school. J‑1 exchange students may attend public high school for one academic year through exchange programs with a host family.

2. What is a public school?

Public schools are state- and locally-funded institutions serving U.S. residents from kindergarten through grade 12. International students must pay tuition—they are ineligible for free enrollment. These schools typically do not offer boarding and may not have tailored services for international students.

3. F‑1 visa rules for public school

• Must attend public high school (grades 9–12) only, for a maximum of 12 months.
  
• Must pay the full per-student cost before issuing the I‑20 form.
  
• Cannot attend public school below grade 9.
  
• No extensions or public-to-public transfers beyond one year without changing to a private school.
  
• Typical tuition: $15,000–$20,000 for one year. The other costs are the same as private schools.
  

4. J‑1 visa through public school exchange

J‑1 programs provide cultural exchange rather than academic continuity:

• Students aged approximately 15–18 live with volunteer host families and attend U.S. public high schools for a semester or full year.
  
• Program costs can be significantly lower—around $15,000 total for room, board, and tuition, making it accessible for a cultural immersion experience.
  
• Limitations: You cannot choose the specific school or host family, and there is no option to renew or stay longer beyond the program duration.
  

5. Why academic-focused students opt for private or boarding schools

Feature	Public School (F‑1/J‑1)	Private/Boarding School
Duration	Max 12 months	Multiple years (grades 6–12)
College counseling	Limited	Extensive, personalized
Cost	$15,000 to $20,000	$50,000 to $90,000
Housing	Only homestay (J‑1)	Dorms or homestay supported
Visa renewal	Not permitted after 1 year	F‑1 fully renewable

Academic families aiming for elite U.S. universities often choose private or boarding schools for sustained, structured support.

6. Common misconceptions for international Students

• “Public school is free”—False. Tuition is required for international students.
  
• “I can enroll without a visa”—False. Visa must be approved before arrival, and the school must be SEVP-certified.
  
• “I can stay longer if school agrees”—False. Visa limitations override school policy.
  

7. When to consider public school

Public high school study is suitable only if:

• Your goal is a one-year cultural exchange
  
• You use a J‑1 program with a host family
  
• Budget is limited and college plans are short-term
  

Avoid public school if you plan a multi-year path to U.S. university, need ESL support, or aim for top-tier schools.

8. Better alternatives

Longer-term visa support and academic resources are available through:

• Private day schools with homestay
  
• Boarding schools with comprehensive support
  
• SEVP-certified charter or magnet schools
  These options offer a more stable foundation for academic and college success.
  

Guidance from BGE

We help families by:

• Explaining visa types and public school eligibility
  
• Comparing costs, benefits, and limitations of public vs. private routes
  
• Preventing common missteps that cause visa denial or rejection
  
• Planning multi-year academic strategies tailored to your child’s goals
  

Please contact BGE if you have questions about J-1 exchange program.