As an expert in immigration law and international education, I would like to provide a comprehensive response to the question regarding the eligibility of H4 visa holders to study in the United States.

The H4 visa is a dependent visa issued to the spouses of H1B visa holders. It is designed to allow the family members of H1B visa holders to accompany them to the U.S. and live with them during the time the H1B visa is valid. Historically, H4 visa holders were not permitted to engage in any form of employment or study that would lead to a degree or certification, without changing their status.

However, in recent years, there have been significant changes to the regulations that impact H4 visa holders. In May 2015, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a final rule that allows certain H4 dependent spouses of H1B visa holders to apply for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs). This rule change was a major step forward for H4 visa holders, as it provided them with the opportunity to work legally in the U.S. under certain conditions.

**Education Opportunities for H4 Visa Holders**


1. Studying in the U.S.: Yes, H4 visa holders can study in the U.S. in any field of their choice. They are not restricted to specific fields of study and can pursue education at various levels, from kindergarten through postgraduate studies.


2. Curricular Practical Training (CPT): CPT is a type of off-campus work authorization that is available to F1 visa holders who are pursuing a degree. It is designed to allow students to gain practical experience in their field of study. However, as mentioned in the provided information, H4 visa holders are not eligible for CPT.


3. Optional Practical Training (OPT): Similar to CPT, OPT is a form of work authorization for F1 visa holders. It allows students to work in their field of study for up to 12 months after completing their degree (with an additional 24 months for STEM fields). H4 visa holders are also not eligible for OPT.


4. On/Off Campus Jobs: While H4 visa holders can study in the U.S., they are not permitted to engage in on-campus or off-campus jobs unless they have an EAD and meet the eligibility criteria for H4 EAD.


5. Scholarships: H4 visa holders may be eligible for certain scholarships, but this can vary greatly depending on the institution and the specific scholarship's terms and conditions.


6. Converting to F1 Visa: To take advantage of the benefits such as CPT, OPT, and on-campus jobs, H4 visa holders would need to change their status to an F1 visa. This is a more complex process that involves applying to a U.S. school, receiving an I-20 form, and then applying for a change of status or a new visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy.

7.
EAD and Employment: For those H4 visa holders who have obtained an EAD, they are allowed to work in the U.S., but their employment is not tied to their field of study. The EAD allows for a broader range of employment opportunities.

8.
Maintaining Status: It is crucial for H4 visa holders to maintain their status while studying. This means that they must continue to meet the requirements of their H4 visa, such as being the spouse of an H1B visa holder who is maintaining their status.

In conclusion, while H4 visa holders face certain limitations when it comes to practical training and employment opportunities, they are indeed allowed to study in the U.S. in any field they choose. For those who wish to engage in activities such as CPT, OPT, or on-campus jobs, converting to an F1 visa may be necessary. It is always recommended to consult with an immigration attorney or an international student advisor to understand the specific requirements and processes involved.

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Yes, H4 visa holders can study in the US in any field. However, they are not allowed CPT (Curricular Practical Training), OPT(Optional Practical Training), On/Off campus jobs, or Scholarships. In order to utilize these benefits the visa needs to be converted to F1 visa (International student visa).read more >>