As a visitor on a B-2 visa, you cannot work or enroll full-time in a U.S. academic program. However, you can attend short-term courses or conferences. Any long-term study or employment would require changing your visa type.

If you wish to study in the U.S. afterward, applying for an F-1 student visa is the proper route. For internships or work experience, you’d need a J-1 exchange visitor visa or appropriate work visa. It’s important to start the application while outside the U.S. or before your current status expires. Overstaying could affect future visa eligibility.

You should carefully plan any transition from your visitor status to avoid legal issues. Consulting your university’s international office or a U.S. immigration attorney can clarify your options. They can guide you on whether you qualify for a change of status or if you must return home first. Maintaining lawful status is crucial for future opportunities in the U.S. Acting without guidance could jeopardize your ability to re-enter later.