QUESTION

How can I change my visa status from B1/B2 to F-1?

Asked on Sep 26th, 2012 on Immigration - Mississippi
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6 ANSWERS

You have to be accepted into a college or university first and then the school will provide you with the forms needed to file for a change of status.
Answered on Oct 01st, 2012 at 11:49 PM

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1. Find a school that a) offers curriculum you want, b) is authorized by USCIS to accept foreign students; and c) is willing to accept you. (Many ESL schools fit these requirements for most applicants. Don't jump into the waiting embrace of the first school that will say "Yes" to you. Do your due diligence, on-line, on the phone, and in personal interviews. Chose the best: more than your money is at stake - it's your life, don't waste it) 2. Every USCIS-authorized school has a person called Designated School Official (DSO). Speak with that person at the school of your choice; she or he will prepare the necessary SEVIS forms for you 3. Download Form I-539 Application to Extend/Change Non-immigrant Status from the website of USCIS, fill it out according to the instructions (found at the same site), and file it with SEVIS Form I-20 and the required fee. 4. If you cannot manage any of these tasks on your own or have questions that the instructions do not answer, call an immigration attorney. Good luck!
Answered on Oct 01st, 2012 at 12:35 AM

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Immigration and Naturalization Attorney serving San Diego, CA
3 Awards
You must file before your I-94 card expires, obtain an I-20 from a school that accepts you and establish all of the requirements for that classification and file an I-539, SEVIS fee, USCIS fee, and supporting documents. I suggest you retain an attorney to do this after you locate a school where you will be accepted.
Answered on Oct 01st, 2012 at 12:34 AM

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Best way is to return to your home country and apply for the F1 visa there with an approved I-20. USCIS rarely if ever grants change of status petitions from B1/B2 to F-1 any more.
Answered on Sep 29th, 2012 at 12:59 AM

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Rebecca T White
You will need to be accepted into a school and speak with the international student advisor.
Answered on Sep 27th, 2012 at 5:35 PM

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Thomas J. Rosser
In most circumstances USCIS is reluctant to approve a COS (Change of Status) stateside from B-1/B-2 to F-1 student status (unless at entry you received a notation that you were coming to explore educational opportunities). In all probability you will be required to depart by the authorized date on your current I-94 and consular process for the F-1 student classification from your country of origin with school documentation confirming your acceptance at the institution, etc. You should seek professional help from an experienced immigration attorney and/or your potential school's DSO (designated school official) who interfaces institutionally with USCIS/ICE and can provide such guidance.
Answered on Sep 27th, 2012 at 5:34 PM

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