F1 Visa Change of Status Made Easy: Tips and Timeline

Navigating the process of changing your status to an F1 student visa can be overwhelming. However, with proper preparation and understanding of the timeline, you can manage the process smoothly. Here’s a detailed timeline to help you plan your transition to F1 status.

To save time, here's a quick overview:

For applicants who:

• Have a U.S. bachelor's or master's diploma and can promptly provide their official transcript to the university's admission office, or have their overseas diploma and transcript evaluated by a NACES-approved organization:
  👉Timeline: Approximately 2-3 months to change status to F1.
• Have never obtained any diploma or degree in the U.S. but hold an overseas diploma and transcript:
  👉Timeline: Around 4-5 months to change status to F1.

Tips for Students with Foreign Transcripts:

• Submit a standard evaluation with GPA conversion from a NACES-approved member for your qualifying degree. For more information, visit the NACES website.

Note: The above timelines assume professional guidance from an experienced immigration attorney and the use of USCIS's Premium Processing Service, which can significantly streamline the process.

By following these steps and preparing accordingly, you can navigate the Change of Status process smoothly and embark on your academic journey in the U.S. with confidence.

Detailed Timeline Guide

Step 1: English Proficiency Test

• Exemption: If you have a U.S. domestic transcript and diploma, or if your previous university provides a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate, you may be exempt from taking a language proficiency test.
• Requirement: Otherwise, you need to take an English proficiency test such as IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo English Test. Preparation and processing times vary.

Step 2: Transcript Evaluation

• U.S. Credentials: If you have a U.S. domestic transcript and diploma, or an evaluation from a NACES-approved organization, upload these documents directly to your university's application portal.
• Foreign Credentials: Some universities offer an internal evaluation system for international transcripts, taking 1-2 months. Alternatively, use a NACES-approved institution for potentially faster and standardized assessment.

Step 3: Research Suitable Universities

When selecting a major and university, align your choice with your career goals and previous academic background. Ensure the Designated School Official (DSO) at your chosen university supports international students with a "Change of Status" I-20. Not all universities can issue Change of Status I-20s; some only accept F1 transfer students or issue initial I-20s for new students.

Verify this information before applying as it significantly impacts your ability to transition to F1 status. Contact the university's international student office to confirm their policies. Consider their overall support for international students, including resources, advising, and community.

For personalized guidance, contact day1cpt.org's education consultants for expert advice on choosing the right university and major.

Step4: Getting an Admission Offer Letter, Paying the SEVIS Fee, and Requesting an I-20 Form

1. Get an Admission Offer Letter: After selecting the right major and university, submit your application with all required documents. Once accepted, the university will send you an admission offer letter. This letter confirms your acceptance into the program and allows you to move forward with the visa process.
2. Pay the SEVIS Fee: Pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) I-901 fee online through the SEVP website and keep the payment confirmation. SEVIS is a system that tracks F, M, and J visa holders. Paying this fee is mandatory for all international students. You can pay the fee online through the SEVP website and will receive a payment confirmation, which you need to keep for your records. The SEVIS I-901 Payment Confirmation Form is essential for scheduling your visa interview and for your Change of Status petition.
3. Request an I-20 Form: After paying the SEVIS fee, request the Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) from your university. The I-20 form is a critical document that you will need to apply for your F1 visa or to change your status to F1 within the U.S. The DSO will issue the I-20 once they verify your financial ability to cover tuition and living expenses.

Timing Considerations: Ensure there is at least a one-month gap between your Change of Status petition submission date and the semester start date. This is crucial if using the premium processing service from USCIS to avoid delays, as it allows sufficient time for the processing of your petition without causing delays to your academic start date.

For more detailed guidance on these steps, you can refer to the SEVP website or contact Day1CPT.org’s education consultants, who can provide you with expert advice and personalized assistance throughout the process.

Step5: Researching the USCIS I-539 Form and I-901 Premium Processing Service

1. Research the USCIS I-539 Form: Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, is used by nonimmigrants to apply for an extension of stay or change of status while in the United States. This form is particularly important for those looking to change their status to F1 (student) from another visa category. Here’s what you need to know:

• Purpose: The I-539 form allows you to change your current nonimmigrant status to another nonimmigrant status, such as from a J1 to an F1 visa.
• Processing Time: Generally, it takes about 3-6 months to hear back from USCIS regarding your application. Processing times can vary based on the service center handling your case and the volume of applications received.
• Submission: You need to submit the completed form along with the required supporting documents and the filing fee. Make sure to review the instructions carefully to avoid any mistakes that could delay your application.

For detailed instructions and to download the form, visit the USCIS I-539 page.

2. Research the USCIS I-901 Premium Processing Service: The SEVIS I-901 fee is a mandatory fee for international students and exchange visitors applying for F, M, or J visas. Premium Processing Service, however, is an expedited service available for certain employment-based visa categories, not typically applicable to student visa applications. Nevertheless, understanding the overall premium processing service and its benefits can be useful if you are considering changing your status under other visa categories that qualify for premium processing.

• Purpose: Premium processing guarantees a 15-calendar-day processing time for certain employment-based visa petitions. While this service does not apply directly to F1 status changes, it is beneficial for those needing expedited processing for H1-B or other employment-based petitions.
• Fees and Process: The premium processing fee is $2,500, and this service ensures faster processing of your petition, with USCIS providing either an approval, denial, request for evidence or notice of intent to deny within the 15-day period.

Consult an Attorney: Due to the complexities involved, consulting an experienced immigration attorney is highly advisable.

Additional Benefit with Day1CPT.org

If you apply through day1cpt.org and successfully obtain an I-20, we will suggest a cooperated law firm offering a complimentary 20-minute consultation session with an experienced immigration attorney.

Extra Reminder for J1 and H1 Holders

• H1 Applicants: Send your Change of Status petition at least one week before your current status expiration date. USCIS takes 3-5 business days to issue a receipt notice after receiving your materials.
• J1 Applicants: Ensure you are not subject to the 2-year home country residency requirement. If so, fulfill it or obtain a waiver before proceeding.

For more references, you can read day1cpt.org's articles to learn more:

• H1B to F1 Change of Status
• H4 to F1 Change of Status