Written by ASAP’s expert immigration lawyers · Updated
Every child in the United States has the right to receive free public education regardless of their immigration status.
Can my child attend school if we are seeking asylum?
Yes! Every child in the United States has the right to receive free public education regardless of their immigration status. You and your child should NOT need to show proof of immigration status to enroll in public school.
However, you may need to show other information, such as proof of where you live or information about your child’s medical or school history. The school may also ask if you or your child have a Social Security number, but you do not need to show one. Read this flyer for more information (the second page is in English).
What ages can children attend school for free?
In the United States, free public school usually starts around age 5 or 6, and ends around age 18 (many states offer free public school until age 21). Before age 5, certain families may qualify for programs like Head Start that provide free preschool and child care.
There are also paid, private school options.
All children in the United States are required to attend some form of school until they reach a certain age. The exact age depends on the specific state, but is usually between ages 16 and 18.
Below is a summary of the general levels in the U.S. education system until age 18 (21, in many states):
Preschool and daycare (early childhood education): around ages 0-5
Elementary school (grades K-5): around ages 5-10
Middle school (grades 6-8): around ages 11-13
High school (grades 9-12): around ages 14-18 (21, in many states)
You can find more information about the U.S. education system on this webpage.
Is my child’s information safe at school?
Schools generally cannot share your child’s school records without your permission, unless there is a court warrant. However, since January 2025, immigration officers are no longer barred from making arrests near or in public areas at schools. Learn more about your family’s rights and read about other safety measures you can take.
How can I find out more about how to enroll my child in school?
Enter your address on this website to find your local public school. You can call the school for more information about how to enroll your child.
Enter your address on this website to learn if there is a local Head Start center near you for children under age 5.
Search for community organizations in your area to ask for help.
Visit this website to find general resources about public education.
What are some education options for people over age 18?
High school diplomas: In many states, students can attend free public high school until age 21. Some public high schools offer free programs for students older than 18 to receive a U.S. high school diploma. Some of these programs are specifically for students who have recently arrived in the United States. There are also exams for adults that are equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma. Check with a local organization or school to learn about the possibilities near you.
Colleges and universities: Some people decide to apply to college or university to continue their education. Generally, colleges and universities in the United States are expensive, and it can be difficult for students without immigration status to receive financial assistance. For example, asylum seekers are generally not eligible for federal financial aid until they have won asylum. Rules about lower, in-state tuition for certain students living in the state, depend on each state and are changing quickly. Check your state here. You can visit this website to learn more and find resources. You can also ask the college’s admissions office for more information.
English classes: There are also many classes for people interested in learning or improving their English. Many of these programs are free and are offered through local libraries or community centers. You can also visit this website to find online classes.
To learn more about adult education options, visit this website.
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The Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project (ASAP) aims to provide factual information about current immigration laws. This information is not legal advice.
All legal content is written and legally reviewed by ASAP’s team of expert immigration lawyers. ASAP’s expert lawyers have decades of experience in immigration law and litigation. Collectively, they have won hundreds of cases. Our lawyers are admitted to the Bar in several U.S. states, hold law degrees from universities including Harvard, Yale, and UCLA, and have won multiple awards for their legal work.