Student Rights for Immigrant and International Students

Every student deserves access to education and fair treatment. In the United States, immigrant and international students have important legal rights that help ensure they can learn, participate in school, and succeed academically.

Understanding these rights can help students and families feel more confident navigating school systems.

Why These Rights Matter

Students come from many different countries, cultures, and backgrounds.

Schools should provide safe learning environments where students have equal opportunities to learn and grow.

Rights of Immigrant Students

Can Immigrant Students Attend Public School?

Yes.

-The United States Supreme Court ruled that children generally have the right to attend public K–12 public schools regardless of immigration status.

Landmark Supreme Court Case

Plyler v. Doe (1982)

Texas attempted to deny public education funding for undocumented children.

The Supreme Court ruled that states cannot deny students access to public education based on immigration status.

-What This Means

Public schools generally cannot:

• Refuse enrollment because a student is undocumented

• Charge extra tuition due to immigration status

• Create unnecessary barriers to enrollment

Real-Life Scenario:

A family recently moves to Texas and worries their child cannot attend school because they are undocumented.

Result: The student generally has the right to enroll in public school.

What Should I Do?

-Contact the school's enrollment office.

-Gather residency and school records.

-Ask for language assistance if needed.

Language Assistance Rights

Many schools serve students whose first language is not English.

Schools may provide services such as:

• English language learning programs

• Translation assistance

• Language support for families

Real-Life Scenario:

A student's parent does not speak English fluently and struggles to understand school information.

What Should I Do?

-Request translated materials.

-Ask for an interpreter during meetings.

-Contact school counselors for assistance.

Rights of International Students

International students studying in the United States often attend high schools, colleges, and universities under student visas.

These students have both rights and responsibilities.

Student Rights

International students generally have the right to:

• Attend approved schools

• Access educational services

• Participate in school activities

• Report discrimination or harassment

• Seek academic support

Student Responsibilities

International students must:

Maintain valid immigration documents, Follow visa requirements, Attend classes regularly, and Keep required school records updated.

Real-Life Scenario:

An international student plans to transfer schools but is unsure whether additional paperwork is required.

What Should I Do?

-Contact the international student office.

-Ask questions before making changes.

-Keep copies of important immigration documents.

Protection Against Discrimination

Federal laws help protect students from discrimination based on:

• Race

• National origin

• Color

• Religion

• Sex

• Disability

All students deserve to learn in a safe and respectful environment.

What Should I Do?

If you experience discrimination:

-Document what happened.

-Report concerns to a teacher, counselor, or administrator.

-Talk to a trusted adult.

-Follow school complaint procedures.

Immigrant and international students contribute valuable experiences and perspectives to schools across the country. Understanding educational rights, language support options, and anti-discrimination protections helps students succeed and feel supported.

Knowing your rights can help you advocate for yourself, seek assistance when needed, and make the most of your educational opportunities.