A Change of Status allows you to transition from your current non-immigrant visa (e.g., B-1/B-2, J-1) to an F-1 visa without leaving the U.S. This permits you to study full-time at a U.S. institution legally.

1. Have a Valid Non-Immigrant Visa
   Your current visa must still be active and valid for your stay in the U.S.
   

2. Are Admitted to a SEVP-Certified School
   You must have been accepted into a U.S. institution approved by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) and received your Form I-20.
   

3. Can Prove Financial Ability
   Demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses for your studies.

4. Have Maintained Your Current Visa Status
   Ensure you have complied with all terms of your current visa without any violations.

Processing times vary but typically range from 4 to 12 months. Check the USCIS processing times for Form I-539 on their official website.

No, you cannot work in the U.S. until your F-1 status is approved and you have proper authorization (e.g., on-campus work or OPT/CPT).

No, leaving the U.S. while your Change of Status application is pending will result in abandonment of your application, and USCIS will deny it.

What Should You Do Instead?

Stay in the U.S. until USCIS has fully processed and approved your application.

• If travel is unavoidable, consult your DSO or an immigration expert to explore alternative options, such as reapplying for an F-1 visa from your home country.

The required documents include:

1. Form I-20
   Issued by your SEVP-certified school.

2. SEVIS Fee Receipt
   Proof of payment for the SEVIS I-901 fee ($350).

3. Form I-539
   Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status (completed and signed).

4. Financial Proof
   Documents showing sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses (e.g., bank statements, affidavits of support).

5. Passport and Current Visa Copies
   Clear copies of your valid passport and current visa.

6. I-94 Record
   Your most recent arrival/departure record from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.

7. Letter of Intent
   A detailed explanation of your educational goals and reasons for the status change.

If your Change of Status application is denied, you typically have the following options:

1. Leave the U.S. Immediately

• If your current visa status has already expired or is nearing expiration, you must leave the U.S. promptly to avoid accruing unlawful presence.

2. Reapply for an F-1 Visa from Your Home Country

• You can apply for an F-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. To improve your chances of approval, address any reasons for the prior denial.

3. File a Motion to Reopen or Reconsider (MTR)

• If you believe the denial was due to a mistake or missing evidence, you can file a Motion to Reopen or Motion to Reconsider with USCIS.
  • Motion to Reopen: If new evidence becomes available.
  • Motion to Reconsider: If you believe USCIS made an error in its decision.

Important Notes:

• Your ability to remain in the U.S. after denial depends on your current visa status.
• It’s always best to consult with an immigration attorney or trusted service like Otips to understand your options and next steps.

It would be best to wait until your F-1 status is approved to begin studying unless you’re transferring from another visa category (e.g., J1 or F-2 dependent).

While it’s not mandatory, having professional guidance from a service like Otips or an immigration attorney can help ensure your application is complete and accurate.

Otips provides step-by-step guidance, document review, and ongoing support to make the Change of Status process smooth and stress-free.