A new rule effective May 29, 2015 will allow the spouses and children of F-1 visa students (i.e. individuals holding F-2 visa status) to attend school provided they do so at less than a full course load. F-2 visa holders may even pursue and obtain a "degree, certificate or other credential," as long as they do not enroll in a "full course of study."

Previously, F-2 visa holders were only allowed to pursue avocational or recreational studies full-time. If a F-2 visa holder wishes to attend school full-time (other than kindergarten through twelfth grade), he/she will still be required to obtain F-1 visa status.