Frequently Asked Questions | U.S. Department of Education

<!DOCTYPE html> <html lang="en" dir="ltr" prefix="og: https://ogp.me/ns#"> <head> <meta charset="utf-8" /> <link rel="canonical" href="http://www.ed.gov/about/contact-us/faqs/International%20Education" /> <meta property="og:site_name" content="U.S. Department of Education" /> <meta property="og:image" content="http://www.ed.gov/themes/custom/edgov/images/ed-og.png" /> <meta name="twitter:card" content="summary_large_image" /> <meta name="Generator" content="Drupal 10 (https://www.drupal.org)" /> <meta name="MobileOptimized" content="width" /> <meta name="HandheldFriendly" content="true" /> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0" /> <script async id="_fed_an_ua_tag" src="https://dap.digitalgov.gov/Universal-Federated-Analytics-Min.js?agency=ED&pga4=G-TTBYENS3X0&cto=6"></script> <script type="application/ld+json">{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "http://www.ed.gov/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "About Us", "item": "http://www.ed.gov/about" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Contact Us", "item": "http://www.ed.gov/contact-us" } ] }</script> <link rel="icon" href="/themes/custom/edgov/favicon.ico" type="image/vnd.microsoft.icon" /> <title>Frequently Asked Questions | U.S. Department of Education</title> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/sites/ed/files/css/css_Zg2wtSLbtHNd-Pb5ZY8Uu7msTdVT19umogQ0xVKoR6U.css?delta=0&language=en&theme=edgov&include=eJx1jU0WgyAMhC8E5ki8IKNSg1B-1Pb0bdUuuugmbzJfMlMepSKQ5QLVyuaK-UgaMgdsMc8KbowrjRIti8JexS8zudwSS3etavXYCh2zC9E1gbLCzwdZHzu-8f5zcRhn7MB3HbA0VcC5nwwnb7jV2MeQBBX0x3-_mwmSkAlOn0oVX7F5B8OCXMkvvl41X6IPoq3Efn4BSypgww" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/sites/ed/files/css/css_ssVTBeq7adkvOcNVoC7iNGwUjx7WxYbET4wzwoTxG-s.css?delta=1&language=en&theme=edgov&include=eJx1jU0WgyAMhC8E5ki8IKNSg1B-1Pb0bdUuuugmbzJfMlMepSKQ5QLVyuaK-UgaMgdsMc8KbowrjRIti8JexS8zudwSS3etavXYCh2zC9E1gbLCzwdZHzu-8f5zcRhn7MB3HbA0VcC5nwwnb7jV2MeQBBX0x3-_mwmSkAlOn0oVX7F5B8OCXMkvvl41X6IPoq3Efn4BSypgww" /> </head> <body class="path-about"> <a href="#main-content" class="usa-sr-only focusable usa-skipnav"> Skip to main content </a> <div data-sitewide-alert></div> <div class="dialog-off-canvas-main-canvas" data-off-canvas-main-canvas> <div class="ed-page-wrapper"> <section class="usa-banner-wrapper"> <div class="usa-banner"> <div class="usa-accordion"> <header class="usa-banner__header"> <div class="usa-banner__inner"> <div class="grid-col-auto"> <img class="usa-banner__header-flag" aria-hidden="true" src="/themes/custom/edgov/assets/uswds/images/us_flag_small.png" alt=""> </div> <div class="grid-col-fill tablet:grid-col-auto" aria-hidden="true"> <p class="usa-banner__header-text">An official website of the United States government</p> <p class="usa-banner__header-action" aria-hidden="true">Here's how you know</p> </div> <button type="button" class="usa-accordion__button usa-banner__button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="gov-banner"> <span class="usa-banner__button-text">Here's how you know</span> </button> </div> </header> <div class="usa-banner__content usa-accordion__content" id="gov-banner" hidden=""> <div class="grid-row grid-gap-lg"> <div class="usa-banner__guidance tablet:grid-col-6"> <img class="usa-banner__icon usa-media-block__img" src="/themes/custom/edgov/assets/uswds/images/icon-dot-gov.svg" alt="Dot gov"> <div class="usa-media-block__body"> <p> <strong>Official websites use .gov</strong> <br> A <strong>.gov</strong> website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. </p> </div> </div> <div class="usa-banner__guidance tablet:grid-col-6"> <img class="usa-banner__icon usa-media-block__img" src="/themes/custom/edgov/assets/uswds/images/icon-https.svg" alt="Https"> <div class="usa-media-block__body"> <p> <strong>Secure .gov websites use HTTPS</strong> <br> A <strong>lock</strong> ( <span class="icon-lock"> <svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="52" height="64" viewBox="0 0 52 64" class="usa-banner__lock-image" role="img" aria-labelledby="banner-lock-description" focusable="false"> <title id="banner-lock-title">Lock</title> <desc id="banner-lock-description">Locked padlock</desc> <path fill="#000000" fill-rule="evenodd" d="M26 0c10.493 0 19 8.507 19 19v9h3a4 4 0 0 1 4 4v28a4 4 0 0 1-4 4H4a4 4 0 0 1-4-4V32a4 4 0 0 1 4-4h3v-9C7 8.507 15.507 0 26 0zm0 8c-5.979 0-10.843 4.77-10.996 10.712L15 19v9h22v-9c0-6.075-4.925-11-11-11z"/> </svg> </span> ) or <strong>https://</strong> means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. </p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <div class="usa-overlay"></div> <header class="usa-header usa-header--extended usa-header--extended-megamenu" id="header" role="banner"> <div class="region region-header usa-navbar"> <div class="usa-logo site-logo" id="logo"> <em class="usa-logo__text"> <a class="logo-img" href="/" accesskey="1" title="Home" aria-label="Home"> <img src="/themes/custom/edgov/logo.svg" alt="Home" /> </a> <a href="/" accesskey="2" title="Home" aria-label="Home"> U.S. Department of Education </a> </em> </div> <button id="ed-mobile-menu-open" class="usa-menu-btn usa-button usa-button--outline usa-button--inverse usa-button--unstyled width-auto"> <svg class="usa-icon text-white usa-icon--size-5" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false" role="img"> <use xlink:href="/themes/custom/edgov/assets/uswds/images/sprite.svg#menu"></use> </svg> </button> </div> <nav class="usa-nav" role="navigation"> <div class="usa-nav__inner"> <div class="ed-branding-mobile"><div class="usa-logo site-logo" id="logo"> <em class="usa-logo__text"> <a class="logo-img" href="/" accesskey="1" title="Home" aria-label="Home"> <img src="/themes/custom/edgov/logo.svg" alt="Home" /> </a> <a href="/" accesskey="2" title="Home" aria-label="Home"> U.S. Department of Education </a> </em> </div> <button id="ed-mobile-menu-open" class="usa-menu-btn usa-button usa-button--outline usa-button--inverse usa-button--unstyled width-auto"> <svg class="usa-icon text-white usa-icon--size-5" aria-hidden="true" focusable="false" role="img"> <use xlink:href="/themes/custom/edgov/assets/uswds/images/sprite.svg#menu"></use> </svg> </button> </div> <button id="ed-mobile-menu-close" class="usa-nav__close"> <img src="/themes/custom/edgov/assets/uswds/images/usa-icons/close.svg" alt="close"/> </button> <ul class="usa-nav__primary usa-accordion"> <li class="usa-nav__primary-item"> <button class="usa-accordion__button usa-nav__link " aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="extended-mega-nav-section-1"> <span>Higher Ed</span> </button> <div id="extended-mega-nav-section-1" class="usa-nav__submenu usa-megamenu" hidden=""> <div class="mm-section-intro"> <div id="block-menu-section-top-1" class="block block-block-content block-block-content6a0fd4d8-5dcc-4a2d-a950-390b5115a354"> <div class="field field--name-field-menu field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p><a href="/higher-education" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="15b1ecee-0fbd-477c-86b2-174280d02ad7" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Higher Education">Higher Education Homepage</a></p></div> </div> </div> <div class="grid-row grid-gap-4"> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/higher-education/find-college-or-educational-program" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/468"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Find a College or Educational Program</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-1" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/" class="link"> <span>College Scorecard</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/higher-education/find-college-or-educational-program/community-college" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/597"> <span>Community College</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/higher-education/paying-college" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/465"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Pay for College</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-2" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="https://studentaid.gov/" class="link"> <span>Federal Student Aid (FSA) </span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa" class="link"> <span>Complete the FAFSA</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/higher-education/manage-your-loans" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/466"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Manage Your Loans</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-3" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="https://studentaid.gov/loan-simulator/" class="link"> <span>Loan Simulator </span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/higher-education/manage-your-loans/_098-e-tax-form" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/1700"> <span>Get your 1098-E Tax Form</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/higher-education/career-pathways" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6679"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Career Pathways</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-4" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="https://cte.ed.gov/" class="link"> <span>Career and Technical Education</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="https://www.apprenticeship.gov" class="link"> <span>Apprenticeships</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/higher-education/veterans-and-military-families" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/464"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Veterans</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-5" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/higher-education/veterans-and-military-families/education-benefits" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/1682"> <span>Information for Military Families and Veterans</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/higher-education/veterans-and-military-families/_-keys-to-veterans-success-sites" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/1698"> <span>8 Keys to Veteran Success</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </li> <li class="usa-nav__primary-item"> <button class="usa-accordion__button usa-nav__link " aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="extended-mega-nav-section-2"> <span>Adult Programs</span> </button> <div id="extended-mega-nav-section-2" class="usa-nav__submenu usa-megamenu" hidden=""> <div class="mm-section-intro"> <div id="block-menu-section-top-2" class="block block-block-content block-block-contentc3d01a91-2cd0-4928-bf51-7d9dc5114ba4"> <div class="field field--name-field-menu field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p><a href="/adult-programs" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="8c460e8d-deff-443f-a126-873186899ce6" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Adult Programs">Adult Programs Homepage</a></p></div> </div> </div> <div class="grid-row grid-gap-4"> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="https://rsa.ed.gov" target="_blank" class="link"> <span>Vocational Rehabilitation</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="https://aefla.ed.gov/" target="_blank" class="link"> <span>Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (AEFLA)</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="https://aefla.ed.gov/correctional-education" class="link"> <span>Correctional Education</span> </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </li> <li class="usa-nav__primary-item"> <button class="usa-accordion__button usa-nav__link " aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="extended-mega-nav-section-3"> <span>Birth to Grade 12 Education</span> </button> <div id="extended-mega-nav-section-3" class="usa-nav__submenu usa-megamenu" hidden=""> <div class="mm-section-intro"> <div id="block-menu-section-top-3" class="block block-block-content block-block-content8d496a2e-8ba6-431f-a9dc-d9062dff161e"> <div class="field field--name-field-menu field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p><a href="/birth-to-grade-12-education" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="2a26b86c-573c-44ea-9827-4440a41437b2" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Birth to Grade 12 Education">Birth to Grade 12 Education Homepage</a></p></div> </div> </div> <div class="grid-row grid-gap-4"> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/birth-to-grade-12-education/early-childhood-education" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/439"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Early Childhood Education</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-1" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/birth-to-grade-12-education/early-childhood-education/early-learning-home-page" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4901"> <span>Early Learning</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/birth-to-grade-12-education/early-childhood-education/early-learning-research" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/4904"> <span>Research on Early Learning</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/birth-to-grade-12-education/elementary-and-secondary-education" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/461"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Elementary and Secondary Education</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-2" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="https://nces.ed.gov/ccd/schoolsearch/" class="link"> <span>Locate a school or district</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/laws-and-policy/laws-preschool-grade-12-education/esea/consolidated-state-performance-reports" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/2983"> <span>Find Your State’s Performance Report</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="https://cte.ed.gov" class="link"> <span>Career and Technical Education </span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/birth-to-grade-12-education/resources-families" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/462"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Resources for Parents and Students</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-3" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/birth-grade-12-education/resources-families/family-partnership-and-engagement" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/1739"> <span>Family Partnership and Engagement</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/birth-grade-12-education/school-choice" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/7597"> <span>School Choice</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="https://studentprivacy.ed.gov/" class="link"> <span>Student Records and Privacy </span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/laws-and-policy/laws-preschool-grade-12-education" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/553"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Laws related to Preschool to Grade 12 Education</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-4" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/laws-and-policy/individuals-disabilities" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/717"> <span>Students with disabilities</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </li> <li class="usa-nav__primary-item"> <button class="usa-accordion__button usa-nav__link " aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="extended-mega-nav-section-4"> <span>Teaching & Admin</span> </button> <div id="extended-mega-nav-section-4" class="usa-nav__submenu usa-megamenu" hidden=""> <div class="mm-section-intro"> <div id="block-menu-section-top-4" class="block block-block-content block-block-contentcc22f6b8-154c-493e-a652-365d3fc8b0b0"> <div class="field field--name-field-menu field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p><a href="/teaching-and-administration" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="98cc0a41-5a75-4daa-842a-9680b77998d4" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Teaching and Administration ">Teaching and Administration Homepage</a></p></div> </div> </div> <div class="grid-row grid-gap-4"> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/teaching-and-administration/lead-and-manage-my-school" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/469"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Lead and Manage My School</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-1" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/teaching-and-administration/supporting-students/seac" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/751"> <span>Student Engagement and Attendance Center</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/teaching-and-administration/safe-learning-environments" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/470"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Safe Learning Environments</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-2" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/teaching-and-administration/safe-learning-environments/natural-disaster-resources" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/736"> <span>Disaster and Emergency Response</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/teaching-and-administration/safe-learning-environments/school-safety-and-security" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/734"> <span>School Safety and Security</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/teaching-and-administration/supporting-students" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/471"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Supporting Students</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-3" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/teaching-and-administration/supporting-students/special-populations/students-foster-care" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/750"> <span>Students in foster care</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/teaching-and-administration/teaching-resources/professional-development" target="_self" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/603"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Professional Development</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-4" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/" target="_blank" class="link"> <span>What Works Clearinghouse</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="https://nces.ed.gov/nceskids/educators_corner.asp" class="link"> <span>Kids’ Zone Educator Corner </span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </li> <li class="usa-nav__primary-item"> <button class="usa-accordion__button usa-nav__link " aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="extended-mega-nav-section-5"> <span>Grants & Programs</span> </button> <div id="extended-mega-nav-section-5" class="usa-nav__submenu usa-megamenu" hidden=""> <div class="mm-section-intro"> <div id="block-menu-section-top-5" class="block block-block-content block-block-content73d69c2b-7b3a-48e9-b210-c16f8c4e433b"> <div class="field field--name-field-menu field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p><a href="/grants-and-programs" data-entity-type="node" data-entity-uuid="21c2280d-98e5-4a19-9219-b1711c0c524a" data-entity-substitution="canonical" title="Grants and Programs">Grants and Programs Homepage</a></p></div> </div> </div> <div class="grid-row grid-gap-4"> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/money-college" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/481"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Money for College</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-1" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/grants/pell" class="link"> <span>Pell Grants and Scholarships</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="https://studentaid.gov/understand-aid/types/work-study" class="link"> <span>Work Study Programs</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/apply-grant" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/474"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Grants Overview</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-2" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/apply-grant/available-grants" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6988"> <span>Available Grants</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/apply-grant/getting-started-discretionary-grant-applications" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6281"> <span>Getting Started with Grant Applications</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/manage-your-grant" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/480"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Manage Your Grant</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-3" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/manage-your-grant/ed-memoranda-guidance-for-grantees-us-department-of-education" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5462"> <span>Grantee Responsibilities</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/manage-your-grant/grant-training-and-risk-management" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/769"> <span>Grant Training</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/grants-birth-grade-12" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/477"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Grants for Birth to Grade 12</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-4" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/grants-birth-grade-12/well-rounded-education-grants" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6294"> <span>Well-Rounded Education</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/teacher-prep" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6289"> <span>Teacher Prep </span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/grants-higher-education" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/478"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Grants for Higher Education</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-5" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/about/ed-offices/ope/fipse/overview" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5128"> <span>Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE)</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/grants-higher-education/trio-home-page" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5173"> <span>TRIO programs</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/grants-special-populations" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/479"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Grants for Special Populations</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-6" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/grants-special-populations/grants-individuals-disabilities" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6295"> <span>Students with Disabilities</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/grants-special-populations/economically-disadvantaged-students" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6296"> <span>Economically Disadvantaged Students</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/recognition-programs" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/482"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Recognition Programs</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-7" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/recognition-programs/us-presidential-scholars-program" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6744"> <span>US Presidential Scholars Program</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/formula-grants" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/475"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Formula Grants </span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-8" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/formula-grants/school-improvement/improving-basic-programs-operated-by-local-educational-agencies-esea-title-i-part-a" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6557"> <span>Title I, Part A</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/grants-and-programs/formula-grants/school-improvement/student-support-and-academic-enrichment-program" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6549"> <span>Title IV, Part A</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </li> <li class="usa-nav__primary-item"> <button class="usa-accordion__button usa-nav__link " aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="extended-mega-nav-section-6"> <span>Laws & Policy</span> </button> <div id="extended-mega-nav-section-6" class="usa-nav__submenu usa-megamenu" hidden=""> <div class="mm-section-intro"> <div id="block-menu-section-top-6" class="block block-block-content block-block-content918fec39-c5d9-4b40-b5b0-6fa5c1157755"> <div class="field field--name-field-menu field--type-text-long field--label-hidden field__item"><p><a href="/laws-and-policy">Laws and Policy Homepage</a></p></div> </div> </div> <div class="grid-row grid-gap-4"> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/laws-and-policy/civil-rights-laws" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/484"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Civil Rights Laws</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-1" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/laws-and-policy/civil-rights-laws/file-complaint" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/510"> <span>File a Complaint</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/laws-and-policy/laws-preschool-grade-12-education" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/553"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Preschool to Grade 12 Education</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-2" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/laws-and-policy/laws-preschool-grade-12-education/every-student-succeeds-act-essa" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/1699"> <span>Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/laws-and-policy/laws-preschool-grade-12-education/preschool-grade-12-policy-documents" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/812"> <span>Preschool to Grade 12 Education Policy</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/laws-and-policy/higher-education-laws-and-policy" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/552"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Higher Education</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-3" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/laws-and-policy/higher-education-laws-and-policy/college-accreditation" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/699"> <span>College Accreditation</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="desktop:grid-col-3"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/laws-and-policy/individuals-disabilities" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/717"> <span class="usa-nav__submenu-heading">Individuals with Disabilities</span> </a> </div> <ul id="basic-nav-section-4" class="padding-top-1 padding-bottom-3 usa-nav__submenu-list"> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/laws-and-policy/individuals-disabilities/idea" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/487"> <span>IDEA</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/laws-and-policy/individuals-disabilities/section-504" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/793"> <span>Section 504 and 504 Plans</span> </a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </li> </ul> <div class="usa-nav__secondary"> <ul class="usa-nav__secondary-links"> <li class="usa-nav__secondary-item"> <a href="/espanol" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/757">Español </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__secondary-item"> <a href="/data" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/492">Data</a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__secondary-item"> <a href="/research" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/820">Research</a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__secondary-item"> <a href="/contact-us" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/49">Contact Us</a> </li> </ul> <div class="views-exposed-form block block-views block-views-exposed-filter-blocksite-search-main-search-block" data-drupal-selector="views-exposed-form-site-search-main-search-block" id="block-edgov-site-main-search-block"> <h2>Site Search block</h2> <form action="/search" method="get" id="views-exposed-form-site-search-main-search-block" accept-charset="UTF-8" class="usa-form"> <div class="form-item js-form-item form-type-search-api-autocomplete js-form-type-search-api-autocomplete form-item-search-api-fulltext js-form-item-search-api-fulltext"> <label for="edit-search-api-fulltext" class="usa-label control-label">BY KEYWORD</label> <input placeholder="Search" data-drupal-selector="edit-search-api-fulltext" data-search-api-autocomplete-search="site_search" class="form-autocomplete form-text usa-input" data-autocomplete-path="/search_api_autocomplete/site_search?display=main_search_block&&filter=search_api_fulltext" type="text" id="edit-search-api-fulltext" name="search_api_fulltext" value="" size="30" maxlength="128" aria-label="Search" /> </div> <div data-drupal-selector="edit-actions" class="form-actions js-form-wrapper form-wrapper" id="edit-actions"> <input data-drupal-selector="edit-submit-site-search" type="submit" id="edit-submit-site-search" value="Search" class="button js-form-submit form-submit usa-button" /> </div> </form> </div> </div> </div> </nav> </header> <main class="main-content usa-layout-docs usa-section ed-main " role="main" id="main-content"> <div class="grid-container ed-main-inner"> <div class="grid-row ed-highlighted"> <div class="grid-col-12"> <div data-drupal-messages-fallback class="hidden"></div> </div> </div> <div class="grid-row ed-help"> <div class="grid-col-12"> </div> </div> <div class="grid-row ed-breadcrumb"> <div class="grid-col-12"> <div> <div id="block-edgov-breadcrumbs" class="block block-system block-system-breadcrumb-block"> <nav class="usa-breadcrumb" role="navigation" aria-labelledby="system-breadcrumb"> <h2 id="system-breadcrumb" class="usa-sr-only">Breadcrumb</h2> <ol class="usa-breadcrumb__list"> <li class="usa-breadcrumb__list-item"> <a href="/" class="usa-breadcrumb__link"><span>Home</span></a> </li> <li class="usa-breadcrumb__list-item"> <a href="/about" class="usa-breadcrumb__link"><span>About Us</span></a> </li> <li class="usa-breadcrumb__list-item"> <a href="/contact-us" class="usa-breadcrumb__link"><span>Contact Us</span></a> </li> <li class="usa-breadcrumb__list-item"> <a href="/about/contact-us/faqs" class="usa-breadcrumb__link"><span></span></a> </li> </ol> </nav> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="grid-row grid-gap ed-main-content-wrapper"> <div class="usa-layout-docs__main desktop:grid-col-8 ed-middle-column"> <div id="block-edgov-content" class="block block-system block-system-main-block"> <div class="views-element-container"><div class="ed-faq-page faq js-view-dom-id-7544bfc9627243881dba7905ea631b5b764567c9adefcc4bf4a5ca8917781ffc"> <header> <h1>Frequently Asked Questions</h1><p>Looking for answers to your questions? Our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page provides answers to common questions about the Department, grants, student loans, and more. Explore questions below or select a topic from the menu at right.</p> <h2>International Education</h2><nav role="navigation" aria-labelledby="block-edgov-faqtopic-menu" id="block-edgov-faqtopic"> <h4 id="block-edgov-faqtopic-menu">By Topic</h4> <ul class="menu menu--faq-topic nav"> <li class="first"> <a href="/about-dept-of-education" title="About Dept of Education" class="first" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1368">About Dept of Education</a> </li> <li> <a href="/career-technical-and-adult-education" title="Career, Technical, and Adult Education" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1917">Career, Technical, and Adult Education</a> </li> <li> <a href="/civil-rights" title="Civil Rights" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1918">Civil Rights</a> </li> <li> <a href="/early-childhood-education" title="Early Childhood Education" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1919">Early Childhood Education</a> </li> <li> <a href="/elementary-and-secondary-education" title="Elementary and Secondary Education" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1920">Elementary and Secondary Education</a> </li> <li> <a href="/federal-student-aid" title="Federal Student Aid" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1921">Federal Student Aid</a> </li> <li> <a href="/grant-program-funding" title="Grant Program Funding" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1922">Grant Program Funding</a> </li> <li> <a href="/higher-education-0" title="Higher Education" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1923">Higher Education</a> </li> <li> <a href="/international-education" title="International Education" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1924">International Education</a> </li> <li> <a href="/non-public-education" title="Non Public Education" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1925">Non Public Education</a> </li> <li> <a href="/publications" title="Publications" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1926">Publications</a> </li> <li> <a href="/recognition-programs" title="Recognition Programs" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1927">Recognition Programs</a> </li> <li> <a href="/research-and-statistics" title="Research and Statistics" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1928">Research and Statistics</a> </li> <li> <a href="/special-education-and-rehabilitative-services" title="Special Education and Rehabilitative Services" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1929">Special Education and Rehabilitative Services</a> </li> <li> <a href="/student-records-and-privacy-0" title="Student Records and Privacy" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1930">Student Records and Privacy</a> </li> <li class="last"> <a href="/teaching-initiatives-and-resources" title="Teaching Initiatives and Resources" class="last" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1931">Teaching Initiatives and Resources</a> </li> </ul> </nav> </header> <div class="faq-row views-row"> <div class="usa-accordion"> <h4 class="usa-accordion__heading"> <button type="button" class="usa-accordion__button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="b-a1"> I want to study abroad. How can I authenticate my U.S. diploma or degree? </button> </h4> <div id="b-a1" class="usa-accordion__content usa-prose"> <p>Since October 15, 1981, the United States has been part of the 1961 Hague Convention abolishing the Requirement of Legalization for Foreign Public Documents (Only). The Convention provides for the simplified certification - the "apostille" - of public documents to be used in countries that have joined the convention. Since the majority of education-related documents are executed and signed by state officials, in order to obtain the apostille you would need to contact the state department for the state where the documents were issued. You may access the general contact information for the Secretary of State for all states at <a href="https://www.nass.org/membership"><u>National Association of Secretaries of State</u></a>.</p><p>Documents requiring certifications with an apostille by the U.S. Department of State (federal agency) are those that have been signed by a federal official with the official seal of that agency, American Consular Officer, Military Notary (10 USC 1044a) or Foreign Consul (Diplomat Officials must be registered with the Office of Protocol).</p><p>The U.S. Department of State issues both Authentication Certificates and Apostilles. The determination of which certificate is issued is based on the country in which the document will be used. Authentication Certificates are issued for documents which are destined for use in countries that are not parties to the Hague Apostille Convention. Apostille Certificates are issued for documents destined for use in countries that are parties to the Hague Apostille Convention. For more information visit the <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/legal/travel-legal-considerations/internl-judicial-asst/authentications-and-apostilles/office-of-authentications.html"><u>Office of Authentications</u></a>.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="faq-row views-row"> <div class="usa-accordion"> <h4 class="usa-accordion__heading"> <button type="button" class="usa-accordion__button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="b-a2"> I am from another country, but am interested in attending a university in the USA. Can you tell me about the admissions procedures? </button> </h4> <div id="b-a2" class="usa-accordion__content usa-prose"> <p>Unlike in many countries, the United States has no Federal Ministry of Education or other centralized authority exercising single national control over postsecondary educational institutions in this country. The states assume varying degrees of control over education, but, in general, institutions of higher education are permitted to operate with considerable independence and autonomy. U.S. colleges and universities can vary widely in their admissions policies and requirements. Therefore, you should contact the institution(s) you are interested in attending for more information about admissions requirements. The institution(s) can also provide information about policies concerning the evaluation of non-U.S. credentials.</p><p>For visa requirements, you must visit your local U.S. Embassy or consult the <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas.html"><u>U.S. Department of State website</u></a>. Please note there are different types of visas. If you are in the United States, you may contact the <a href="http://www.uscis.gov/"><u>U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.</u></a> Please note that the U.S. Department of Education does not oversee or influence the issuance of visas.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="faq-row views-row"> <div class="usa-accordion"> <h4 class="usa-accordion__heading"> <button type="button" class="usa-accordion__button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="b-a3"> I have a diploma or degree that was awarded in another country. Will my diploma/degree be recognized in the United States? How do I get my credentials evaluated? </button> </h4> <div id="b-a3" class="usa-accordion__content usa-prose"> <p>In the United States, the ultimate decision to recognize or accept an education credential rests with (1) individual employers (for those seeking employment); (2) state-level licensing agencies (for those seeking professional licensure); (3) universities (for those seeking to continue their studies); and (4) federal immigration authorities (for those seeking a visa or a change in immigration status).</p><p>For the evaluation of non-U.S. credentials, employers and other entities will often request that an applicant obtain a "credential evaluation" to determine how one's non-U.S. credentials compare to U.S. credentials. Such evaluations are carried out by private, non-governmental entities called "credential evaluation services," which charge a fee that varies depending on the level of detail needed. The U.S. Department of Education does not evaluate education credentials.</p><p>Before selecting a credential evaluation service, consult with the prospective recipient of the evaluation (e.g., employer, university admissions office) to find out if there are specific policies in place concerning the evaluation of non-U.S. credentials. If you do not have a specific recipient in mind, you can research online to identify and select a credential evaluation service on your own. Additional resources and information can be found at the <a href="https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/"><u>Office of International Affairs</u></a>. (There is no federal or state regulation of credential evaluation services, and the U.S. Department of Education does not endorse or recommend any individual credential evaluation service or any individual association of credential evaluation services.)</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="faq-row views-row"> <div class="usa-accordion"> <h4 class="usa-accordion__heading"> <button type="button" class="usa-accordion__button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="b-a4"> Are foreign post-secondary institutions eligible to participate in the Federal Student Aid Program? </button> </h4> <div id="b-a4" class="usa-accordion__content usa-prose"> <p>There are hundreds of foreign post-secondary institutions that are eligible to participate in the Federal Student Aid Program. If you attend one of these institutions, you would be eligible to apply for a student loan through this program. To search for an eligible institution, visit our <a href="https://studentaid.gov/fafsa-app/FSCsearch"><u>Federal School Code Search</u></a> page. Once on this site, select the "school year," in the state field select "foreign country," and then select "Search" to get a full listing of overseas schools, or search for a specific school using the institution's name. Additional <a href="https://sites.ed.gov/international/what-we-do/information-on-u-s-education-and-mobility/"><u>i</u></a>nformation about studying abroad is also available at <a href="https://studyabroad.state.gov/"><u>https://studyabroad.state.gov/</u></a>.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="faq-row views-row"> <div class="usa-accordion"> <h4 class="usa-accordion__heading"> <button type="button" class="usa-accordion__button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="b-a5"> Where can I find information on studying abroad? </button> </h4> <div id="b-a5" class="usa-accordion__content usa-prose"> <p>For general information about studying abroad, as well as links to relevant organizations, see <a href="https://sites.ed.gov/international/what-we-do/information-on-u-s-education-and-mobility/"><u>Academic and Professional Mobility</u></a> and the <a href="https://studyabroad.state.gov/"><u>U.S. Department of State's USA Study Abroad website</u></a>.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="faq-row views-row"> <div class="usa-accordion"> <h4 class="usa-accordion__heading"> <button type="button" class="usa-accordion__button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="b-a6"> I am from another country and am interested in studying in the United States. Where can I find information about the education system in the U.S. and applying to study there? </button> </h4> <div id="b-a6" class="usa-accordion__content usa-prose"> <p>For general information about studying in the United States, as well as links to other relevant organizations, see the <a href="https://educationusa.state.gov/"><u>U.S. Department of State's EducationUSA website</u></a> and the <a href="https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/"><u>U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Study in the States website.</u></a></p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="faq-row views-row"> <div class="usa-accordion"> <h4 class="usa-accordion__heading"> <button type="button" class="usa-accordion__button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="b-a7"> What steps do I need to follow to become certified and licensed to teach if I am moving from a foreign country? </button> </h4> <div id="b-a7" class="usa-accordion__content usa-prose"> <p>In the U.S., each state determines the requirements for licensing and certifying teachers in that state. Individual schools and school districts, not the U.S. Department of Education, are responsible for the hiring of teachers.</p><p>For more information about licensure requirements in any state that may interest you, contact the <a href="https://www.ed.gov/contact-us/state-contacts"><u>state department of education</u></a>. The state's department of education can also provide information about its policy for evaluating and recognizing non-U.S. education qualifications.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div class="faq-row views-row"> <div class="usa-accordion"> <h4 class="usa-accordion__heading"> <button type="button" class="usa-accordion__button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="b-a8"> What are the visa requirements for students? </button> </h4> <div id="b-a8" class="usa-accordion__content usa-prose"> <p>The U.S. Departments of State and Homeland Security oversee all visa requirements for students from other countries coming to the United States. Information and assistance are available from the following sources:</p><p>For information on student visa requirements, visit the <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/study.html"><u>U.S. Department of State Student Visa</u></a> website.</p><p>The U.S. Department of State provides support to a network of <a href="https://educationusa.state.gov/find-advising-center"><u>Educational Advising/Information Centers</u></a> around the world. These centers advise prospective international students and other audiences on higher education and study opportunities in the United States.</p><p>Foreign students in the U.S. with questions about their visas, and schools with questions about student visas, should contact 1-800-375-5283 or visit <a href="https://www.uscis.gov/working-united-states/students-and-exchange-visitors/students-and-employment"><u>United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)</u></a> for more information.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="usa-layout-docs__sidenav desktop:grid-col-4 layout-sidebar-second ed-right-column"> <div class="region_sidebar-second dashed"><nav role="navigation" aria-labelledby="block-faq-topic-menu-desktop-menu" id="block-faq-topic-menu-desktop"><h4 id="block-faq-topic-menu-desktop-menu">By Topic</h4><ul class="usa-sidenav"><li class="usa-sidenav__item first"><a href="/about-dept-of-education" title="About Dept of Education" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1368">About Dept of Education</a></li><li class="usa-sidenav__item"><a href="/career-technical-and-adult-education" title="Career, Technical, and Adult Education" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1917">Career, Technical, and Adult Education</a></li><li class="usa-sidenav__item"><a href="/civil-rights" title="Civil Rights" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1918">Civil Rights</a></li><li class="usa-sidenav__item"><a href="/early-childhood-education" title="Early Childhood Education" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1919">Early Childhood Education</a></li><li class="usa-sidenav__item"><a href="/elementary-and-secondary-education" title="Elementary and Secondary Education" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1920">Elementary and Secondary Education</a></li><li class="usa-sidenav__item"><a href="/federal-student-aid" title="Federal Student Aid" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1921">Federal Student Aid</a></li><li class="usa-sidenav__item"><a href="/grant-program-funding" title="Grant Program Funding" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1922">Grant Program Funding</a></li><li class="usa-sidenav__item"><a href="/higher-education-0" title="Higher Education" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1923">Higher Education</a></li><li class="usa-sidenav__item"><a href="/international-education" title="International Education" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1924">International Education</a></li><li class="usa-sidenav__item"><a href="/non-public-education" title="Non Public Education" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1925">Non Public Education</a></li><li class="usa-sidenav__item"><a href="/publications" title="Publications" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1926">Publications</a></li><li class="usa-sidenav__item"><a href="/recognition-programs" title="Recognition Programs" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1927">Recognition Programs</a></li><li class="usa-sidenav__item"><a href="/research-and-statistics" title="Research and Statistics" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1928">Research and Statistics</a></li><li class="usa-sidenav__item"><a href="/special-education-and-rehabilitative-services" title="Special Education and Rehabilitative Services" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1929">Special Education and Rehabilitative Services</a></li><li class="usa-sidenav__item"><a href="/student-records-and-privacy-0" title="Student Records and Privacy" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1930">Student Records and Privacy</a></li><li class="usa-sidenav__item last"><a href="/teaching-initiatives-and-resources" title="Teaching Initiatives and Resources" class="link" data-drupal-link-system-path="taxonomy/term/1931">Teaching Initiatives and Resources</a></li></ul></nav><div id="block-edgov-faqemail" class="block block-block-content block-block-contentbd35b4d3-657e-4494-9ec6-034879f68739"><div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>If you don't see an answer to your question here, submit your question to the Information Resource Center at <a href="mailto:answers@ed.gov">answers@ed.gov</a>.</p></div></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </main> <footer class="usa-footer usa-footer--slim" role="contentinfo"> <div class="grid-container usa-footer__return-to-top"> <a href="#">Return to top</a> </div> <div class="usa-footer__primary-section"> <div class="usa-footer__primary-content"> <div class="grid-row grid-gap"> <div class="grid-col-12"> <ul class="menu menu--footer nav grid-row grid-gap"> <li class="desktop:grid-col-3 expanded dropdown first"> <a href="/higher-education/paying-college" class="desktop:grid-col-3 expanded dropdown first dropdown-toggle" data-toggle="dropdown" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/465">Pay for College <span class="caret"></span></a> <ul class="dropdown-menu"> <li class="first"> <a href="/higher-education/paying-college/better-fafsa" class="first" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/1761">Fill out the FAFSA</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.collegesavings.org/">529 Plans</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation">Loan Forgiveness</a> </li> <li class="last"> <a href="/higher-education/manage-your-loans/_098-e-tax-form" class="last" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/1700">1098 Tax Forms</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="desktop:grid-col-3 expanded dropdown"> <a href="/birth-to-grade-12-education/resources-families" class="desktop:grid-col-3 expanded dropdown dropdown-toggle" data-toggle="dropdown" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/462">Educational Resources <span class="caret"></span></a> <ul class="dropdown-menu"> <li class="first"> <a href="/laws-and-policy/individuals-disabilities/section-504" class="first" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/793">504 Plans</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://studentprivacy.ed.gov/ferpa">FERPA</a> </li> <li class="last"> <a href="https://sites.ed.gov/idea/topic-areas/#IEP" class="last">IEPs (Individualized Education Program)</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="desktop:grid-col-3 expanded dropdown"> <a href="/teaching-and-administration/teaching-resources" class="desktop:grid-col-3 expanded dropdown dropdown-toggle" data-toggle="dropdown" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/790">Teaching Resources <span class="caret"></span></a> <ul class="dropdown-menu"> <li class="first"> <a href="https://cte.ed.gov/unlocking-career-success/take-action/teachers" class="first">Become a Teacher</a> </li> <li> <a href="/teaching-and-administration/teaching-resources/professional-development" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/603">Professional Resources</a> </li> <li> <a href="/teaching-and-administration/safe-learning-environments/school-safety-and-security" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/734">School Safety and Security</a> </li> <li class="last"> <a href="https://studyabroad.state.gov/us-government-scholarships-and-programs/programs-us-teachers" class="last">Teaching Abroad</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="desktop:grid-col-3 expanded dropdown"> <a href="/laws-and-policy/civil-rights-laws/file-complaint" class="desktop:grid-col-3 expanded dropdown dropdown-toggle" data-toggle="dropdown" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/510">File a Report <span class="caret"></span></a> <ul class="dropdown-menu"> <li class="first"> <a href="https://oig.ed.gov/oig-hotline" class="first">Report Fraud, Waste, or Abuse</a> </li> <li> <a href="/laws-and-policy/civil-rights-laws/file-complaint" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/510">Report a Civil Rights Violation</a> </li> <li class="last"> <a href="https://studentprivacy.ed.gov/file-a-complaint" class="last">Student Privacy Complaint Forms</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="desktop:grid-col-3 expanded dropdown"> <a href="/about" class="desktop:grid-col-3 expanded dropdown dropdown-toggle" data-toggle="dropdown" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/38">About Us <span class="caret"></span></a> <ul class="dropdown-menu"> <li class="first"> <a href="/contact-us" class="first" title="Contact ED" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/49">Contact Us</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about/ed-offices" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/498">ED Offices</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about/ed-overview" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/501">Overview of ED</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about/contact-us/faqs" data-drupal-link-system-path="about/contact-us/faqs">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</a> </li> <li class="last"> <a href="/about/doing-business-ed/jobs-ed" class="last" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6301">Jobs at ED</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="desktop:grid-col-3 expanded dropdown"> <a href="/about/news" class="desktop:grid-col-3 expanded dropdown dropdown-toggle" data-toggle="dropdown" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/50">News <span class="caret"></span></a> <ul class="dropdown-menu"> <li class="first"> <a href="/about/news" class="first" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/50">Press Releases</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://blog.ed.gov/">Homeroom Blog</a> </li> <li class="last"> <a href="/about/news/subscriptions" class="last" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6786">Subscriptions</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="desktop:grid-col-3 expanded dropdown"> <a href="/about/ed-overview/required-notices" class="desktop:grid-col-3 expanded dropdown dropdown-toggle" data-toggle="dropdown" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/815">Site Notices and Privacy Policies <span class="caret"></span></a> <ul class="dropdown-menu"> <li class="first last"> <a href="/about/ed-overview/notices-other-languages" class="first last" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/688">Accessibility Support</a> </li> </ul> </li> <li class="desktop:grid-col-3 last"> <a href="/ed-web-archives" class="desktop:grid-col-3 last" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6831">ED Archive</a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="usa-footer__secondary-section"> <div class="grid-row grid-gap"> <div class="usa-footer__logo tablet:display-inline-flex tablet-lg:grid-col-8 "> <div class="usa-footer__logo-text"> <h3 class="usa-footer__logo-heading">U.S. Department of Education</h3> </div> </div> <div class="tablet-lg:grid-col"> <div id="block-edgov-edsocialmedias" class="block block-ed-helper block-social-media-block"> <div><div class="usa-footer__contact-links mobile-lg:grid-col"><div class="usa-footer__social-links grid-row"><div class="grid-col-auto"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ED.gov"><img alt="Facebook" src="/themes/custom/edgov/images/icons/facebook.svg"></a></div><div class="grid-col-auto padding-top-2"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/USEducacion"><img alt="Facebook Es" src="/themes/custom/edgov/images/icons/facebook-es.svg"></a></div><div class="grid-col-auto"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/usedgov"><img alt="Instagram" src="/themes/custom/edgov/images/icons/instagram.svg"></a></div><div class="grid-col-auto"><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/usedgov"><img alt="LinkedIn" src="/themes/custom/edgov/images/icons/LinkedIn.svg"></a></div><div class="grid-col-auto"><a href="https://twitter.com/usedgov"><img alt="Twitter" src="/themes/custom/edgov/images/icons/twitter.svg"></a></div><div class="grid-col-auto"><a href="//www.youtube.com/@usedgov"><img alt="Youtube" src="/themes/custom/edgov/images/icons/youtube.svg"></a></div><div class="grid-col-auto"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/departmentofed"><img alt="Flickr" src="/themes/custom/edgov/images/icons/flickr.svg"></a></div></div> </div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="usa-footer__bottom"> <div class="grid-row grid-gap"> <div class="usa-footer__logo-bottom tablet:display-inline-flex tablet-lg:grid-col"> <div class="usa-footer__logo-image"> <img class="usa-footer__logo-img" src="/themes/custom/edgov/logo-footer2.svg" alt="Agency logo"> </div> <div class="usa-footer__logo-text-bottom"> <span class="usa-footer__logo-heading-bottom"><a href="/">www.ed.gov</a></span> <p class="usa-footer__logo-heading-bottom">an official website of the Department of Education</p> </div> </div> <div class="grid-col-12"> <div> <div> <nav role="navigation" aria-labelledby="block-secondaryfootermenu-menu" id="block-secondaryfootermenu"> <h2 class="usa-sr-only" id="block-secondaryfootermenu-menu">Secondary Footer Menu</h2> <ul class="menu menu--secondary-footer-menu nav"> <li class="first"> <a href="/about" class="first" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/38">About Dept of Education</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about/ed-overview/required-notices/website-policies/accessibility-statement" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5446">Accessibility Support</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://www.opm.gov/equal-employment-opportunity/no-fear-act/">No FEAR Act data</a> </li> <li> <a href="https://oig.ed.gov/">Office of the Inspector General</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about/ed-overview/annual-performance-reports" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/716">Performance reports</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about/ed-overview/required-notices/foia" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/722">FOIA</a> </li> <li> <a href="/about/ed-overview/required-notices/privacy/privacy-policy-us-department-of-education" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/5453">Privacy Policy</a> </li> <li class="last"> <a href="/ed-web-archives" class="last" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6831">ED Archive</a> </li> </ul> </nav> </div> </div> </div> <div class="grid-col-12"> <p>Looking for U.S. government information and services? <a target="_blank" href="https://usa.gov">Visit USA.gov</a> </p> </div> </div> </div> </footer> </div> </div> <script type="application/json" data-drupal-selector="drupal-settings-json">{"path":{"baseUrl":"\/","pathPrefix":"","currentPath":"about\/contact-us\/faqs\/International Education","currentPathIsAdmin":false,"isFront":false,"currentLanguage":"en"},"pluralDelimiter":"\u0003","suppressDeprecationErrors":true,"ajaxPageState":{"libraries":"eJx1j0sOwjAQQy-UMEeKJo3bhk6akE8_nB5oi8SGjeX3FpZshZ87WR9vfOdNwZkRkpAJTp_t7Ya4UM8PHTC3CweJluWC4itW76BZkKu2ErtJYavi54lcbonldqEq4NyNhpM33GrsYkiCCvrj1XfbHNvkZ19V2UtFIMsFqpXVFfOp1GcOWGOe1OKxFjry_PUrQnRN8ALDYWDD","theme":"edgov","theme_token":null},"ajaxTrustedUrl":{"\/search":true},"data":{"extlink":{"extTarget":true,"extTargetNoOverride":false,"extNofollow":false,"extNoreferrer":true,"extFollowNoOverride":false,"extClass":"ext","extLabel":"(link is external)","extImgClass":false,"extSubdomains":true,"extExclude":"\\bhttps?:\\\/\\\/[^\\s\\\/$.?#].[^\\s]*\\.(gov|mil)\\b","extInclude":"","extCssExclude":"","extCssExplicit":"","extAlert":true,"extAlertText":"The pages and documents posted on this site include links to information created by other public and private organizations. These links are provided for the user\u0027s convenience. ED does not control or guarantee the accuracy, relevance, timeliness, or completeness of this non-ED information. The inclusion of these links is not intended to reflect their importance, nor is it intended to endorse views expressed, or products or services offered, on these non-ED sites.\r\n\r\nPlease note that privacy policies on non-ED sites may differ from ED\u0027s privacy policy. When you visit Home | U.S. Department of Education , no personal information is collected unless you choose to provide that information to us. We do not give, share, sell, or transfer any personal information to a third party. We recommend that you read the privacy policy of non-ED websites that you visit. We invite you to read our privacy policy. ","mailtoClass":"0","mailtoLabel":"(link sends email)","extUseFontAwesome":false,"extIconPlacement":"append","extFaLinkClasses":"fa fa-external-link","extFaMailtoClasses":"fa fa-envelope-o","whitelistedDomains":["www.*.gov","www.*.mil"]}},"views":{"ajax_path":"\/views\/ajax","ajaxViews":{"views_dom_id:7544bfc9627243881dba7905ea631b5b764567c9adefcc4bf4a5ca8917781ffc":{"view_name":"ed_faq","view_display_id":"page_2","view_args":"International Education","view_path":"\/about\/contact-us\/faqs\/International Education","view_base_path":"about\/contact-us\/faqs\/%taxonomy_term","view_dom_id":"7544bfc9627243881dba7905ea631b5b764567c9adefcc4bf4a5ca8917781ffc","pager_element":0}}},"search_api_autocomplete":{"site_search":{"auto_submit":true}},"sitewideAlert":{"refreshInterval":15000,"automaticRefresh":false},"user":{"uid":0,"permissionsHash":"d2c17ae46997bdfc7c691bf05938f2b88303f25f8f18bdf3dcc925dab16265ca"}}</script> <script src="/sites/ed/files/js/js_ExbDrJ8DwoPoFK3xtRGkXnt-aXCYzQYV8GNDkMny1xg.js?scope=footer&delta=0&language=en&theme=edgov&include=eJx1jU0WgyAMhC8E5ki8IKNSg1B-1Pb0bdUuuugmbzJfMlMepSKQ5QLVyuaK-UgaMgdsMc8KbowrjRIti8JexS8zudwSS3etavXYCh2zC9E1gbLCzwdZHzu-8f5zcRhn7MB3HbA0VcC5nwwnb7jV2MeQBBX0x3-_mwmSkAlOn0oVX7F5B8OCXMkvvl41X6IPoq3Efn4BSypgww"></script>  <script async src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtag/js?id=G-TTBYENS3X0"></script> <script> window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; function gtag(){dataLayer.push(arguments);} gtag('js', new Date()); gtag('config', 'G-TTBYENS3X0'); </script> </body> </html>

CINXE.COM

Frequently Asked Questions | U.S. Department of Education