Can a holder of valid B2/B1 visa who is the US file for change of status to F1 while in the US? Thank you.

Can a holder of valid B2/B1 visa who is the US file for change of status to F1 while in the US? Thank you.

Yes, if you can prove that;

1. You have sufficient funds to cover all expenses during the courses of study (tuition fees, accommodation, personal expenses, etc.)

2. You have strong ties to your home country; that you will return to your home country after graduation.

Currently there are some issues about this situation you should know;

1. When you apply for change of status, your duration of stay and legal status in US changes from visitor to student but not the visa. If you leave US, even for a trip to Canada, you must bring valid I-20 and apply for student visa at the US consulate, or you will not be allowed to enter US again even your attendance record is current.

2. It is a big risk to apply for change of status while you're in US. If the application is denied, it means you are sending a red flag to immigration and warrant will be issued as soon as your visa expired as they already know where you are.

Personally I don't recommend changing status in case like this. It's better and safer to return to your home country with I-20 and apply for student visa.

Yes, if you can prove that;

1. You have sufficient funds to cover all expenses during the courses of study (tuition fees, accommodation, personal expenses, etc.)

2. You have strong ties to your home country; that you will return to your home country after graduation.

Currently there are some issues about this situation you should know;

1. When you apply for change of status, your duration of stay and legal status in US changes from visitor to student but not the visa. If you leave US, even for a trip to Canada, you must bring valid I-20 and apply for student visa at the US consulate, or you will not be allowed to enter US again even your attendance record is current.

2. It is a big risk to apply for change of status while you're in US. If the application is denied, it means you are sending a red flag to immigration and warrant will be issued as soon as your visa expired as they already know where you are.

Personally I don't recommend changing status in case like this. It's better and safer to return to your home country with I-20 and apply for student visa.


Hello ,everyone~! I also had take a B1 visa to over here
Actually I want change my visa to F1,but seen your reply.. I think that is uncertain to change
Except this method ,how can I change visa for study or work in here?