Source: http://uslex.com/Non-Immigrant-Visas/Student-Visas/M-Visas.html
Timestamp: 2019-04-22 20:28:48+00:00

Document:
M Visas are issued to Vocational Students pursuant to INA §101(a)(15)(M), 8 U.S.C. §1101(a)(15)(M); 8 C.F.R. 214.2(m), 67 FR 76256-80 (Dec. 11, 2002); 68 FR 28129 (May 23, 2003) [interim SEVIS rule]; 70 FR 7853 (Feb. 16, 2005) [final SEVIS rule].
M visas are Similar to F-1 except at a vocational/nonacademic institution.
M-2 visas are issued to M-1 Family Members. M-2 Must obtain separate SEVIS I-20s. 8 C.F.R. §214.2(m)(3). M-2 holder May not work or engage in full-time study unless child is attending primary or secondary school. 8 C.F.R. §214.2(m)(17). Can only obtain extension if M-1 obtains extension. 8 C.F.R. §214.2(m)(10)(iii).
Can only be authorized to reduce course load for medical reasons and only for a maximum aggregate period of 5 months.
No online courses or distance courses permissible unless person is required to be physically present for class.
Can only attend school with extensions for a maximum of 3 years.
Can transfer schools only in first 6 months unless reason for not being able to remain at present school was "due to circumstances beyond the student's control." Must get DHS permission prior to transfer on I-539. 8 C.F.R. §214.2(m)(11).
Cannot change educational objectives. 8 C.F.R. §214.2(m)(12).
Cannot accept employment, 8 C.F.R. §214.2(m)(13), except practical training, which may only be obtained after completion of study. 8 C.F.R. §214.2(m)(14). Must have job in field of study; can only be given one period of practical training "equal to 1 month of each 4 months" student pursued full course of study, not exceeding 6 months, §214.2(m)(14)(iii). Must apply for EAD on Form I-765 before expiration of authorized stay and not more than 60 days before or 30 days after completion of course of study. 8 C.F.R. §214.2(m)(14)(ii).
Cannot change to H status if basis of H was training or education received as M-1 student. 8 C.F.R. §248.1(d). Nor can student's request to change nonimmigrant status be granted to M if student is doing it to ultimately qualify for H. 8 C.F.R. §248.1(c). M also cannot change to F. 8 C.F.R. §248.1(c). However, none of these regulations apply to M‑2s.

References: §101
 §1101
 §214
 §214
 §214
 §214
 §214
 §214
 §214
 §214
 §214
 §248
 §248
 §248