Can I study at MIT on L1, H1B, A4, G4, or other immigration statuses?

The U.S. immigration system is set up for an individual to pursue a particular activity based on the status they have. That is why there are specific student visa statuses. If an individual is in the U.S. in another visa status, and will be pursuing study at MIT at the same time they continue the activity for which the initial status was granted, they may be able to also pursue study as long as they maintain the initial status. Some visa statuses do not allow study at the same time. 

If you believe you are in a status that you wish to maintain and also pursue full-time study at MIT, you are advised to contact your current visa sponsor/immigration attorney to provide a letter to the MIT ISO to confirm that you would be allowed to pursue full-time study while you will also continue to maintain the initial status.

NOTE: Even if a status may allow concurrent/same time study in the U.S., it may NOT provide the ability to pursue employment at MIT or in the U.S. (including graduate assistantships or fellowships with service).  It will be important to consult with your current visa sponsor and an immigration attorney as to the best option for pursuit of your study and appropriate activity as part of your degree program at MIT.

Please feel free to contact your ISO Advisor if any questions arise.