Restrictions of a B2

Hi all

I've searched the internet (including U.S. state department website) and the forum and haven't found a consistant answer to my question. I was wondering if anyone could help me with a couple things?

1) If I am under B2 status, am I able to take any courses while in the States? Some colleges enroll you under B2 status, without F1 as a part- time student, but some don't, stating it's a SERIOUS infraction of U.S. law. This all doesn't add up...

2) How stringent are officials at the border for returning from a visit? For example, if I entered on June 15, and came back December 21, will this cause me problems the next time I enter the States?

3)If you rent an apartment in the U.S. while you're visiting, using your own private funds without receiving employment, is this considered unlawful?

Thanks for any help, I really don't want to get myself into a mess, and want to have as clear a grasp on the laws as I can! Appreciate it!!

Under a B2, you can take college courses in the U.S. but not for credit. If you plan to study part time or fulltime towards a certificate or degree and for credit, you must be in F-1 status.

I would try and come back prior to December 15th and not try and enter for another 6 months. You don't want to give CBP a reason to hassle you at the border the next time you try and enter

I don't see renting an apartment as unlawful if your intent is to only visit within the alloted time which is under 6 months.

Hmmmmm.......What is it you are actually doing?

Are you living in the USA? Working? Staying with a spouse/girl/boyfriend?

Why would you rent an apartment if you are just visiting? Snowbirds do it, but usually no one else.

More info needed.......

1) You can engage in part-time study on B-2, which is described vaguely as studying for recreational purposes, e.g. a cooking course. But it really boils down to wherever you enroll being okay with it, because as you've discovered they have differing interpretations.

2) Probably not, unless they required you to fill in an I-94 when you entered which has a specific departure date stamped on it. It's more about your intent.

3) Nope. But you must have sufficient funds to cover the trip and CBP may ask for proof of that especially if you're staying a few months, so take a copy of your bank statement with you. Credit cards aren't sufficient.