slim_slag,
I do not have many answers at the moment. Right now we are going to try to establish the status and identity of every person that comes to NAC un announced. Our students which book courses in advance are sent the
M-1 Visa form as standard procedure.
As stated in your quote from the New York Times, it is no longer allowed to train while you file for a change of status. In the section I quoted you cannot you cannot be admitted to a school with a tourist Visa. The language sounds like a admission to a large school or university, but in there they mention small flight schools, meaning any school.
I currently in contact with the chairman of the House aviation subcommittee and hope to get some answers on procedures and requirements soon.
Take Care,
Richard