Immigrant student rights in school
In Massachusetts, most people age 21 and younger have the right to go to public elementary, middle, and high school. This includes immigrants, new arrivals, and undocumented students.
You must attend school if you are under 16 years old in Massachusetts. If you are over 16 years, there are different rules about student enrollment depending on the town. In most cases you have the right to enroll in school until you are 22 years old or have a high school diploma.
See Immigrant Rights in College and Higher Education for information about immigrant student rights after high school.
Fact Sheets - Equal Educational Opportunities for English Learners (Multilingual, PDFs)
U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights
Advisory Regarding Equal Access to Public Education for All Students Irrespective of Immigration Status
Massachusetts Attorney General's Office
Welcoming Newcomer and Refugee Students & Families (2022)
Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) English Learner Education