Click here for downloadable handout on changing to F-1 status.

Application Packet List

1. Completed I-539, filled out online, printed and signed with blue ink
2. Check for $300
3. Letter explaining why you'd like to change your status
4. Copies of biographical information and visa status information in your passport
5. Copies of I-94 card
6. Completed I-20/DS-2019 Request Form on ISSS Web Site
7. I-901 ($100 SEVIS Fee) Receipt
8. If you are in F-2 or J-2 status now, you will also need to submit passport and status documentation for the individual holding the F-1 or J-1 to which yours is connected.

A change of status can only occur if you are able to prove that you have maintained your current non-immigrant status and that you qualify for the new status.  You must also prove that you did not falsify your entry into the US by claiming you would be doing one activity when you knew you would be doing another after you entered.  An individual who enters on a tourist (B) visa and who immediately applies for a change of status to student will probably be denied, as this indicates a false entry.  Individuals who enter the U.S. on the Visa Waiver Program may not change to another non-immigrant status, but rather must leave the United States and obtain a new visa at an American consulate abroad.

Read the full application information and follow the instructions; if you have questions, you can e-mail your ISSS advisor or you can make an appointment (based on the first letter of your family name).

The application will be sent to Immigration and can between one and six months for processing.  When any correspondence arrives from Immigration, you will be contacted via e-mail.  The receipt usually comes in two to six weeks; we will e-mail the number to you so you can track the status of your application via the Immigration web site.

While the application is in process, it is necessary to wait for the approval before classes can be started.  If your application is approved in the middle of a semester, it is necessary to wait for the next available semester.

IF YOUR SPOUSE AND/OR CHILDREN ARE INCLUDED ON YOUR APPLICATION

 If you are requesting a change to F-1 or J-1 and have dependents with you who will be changing to F-2 or J-2 status, you must also complete the dependents addendum on page 4 of the I-539.

 You must have proof of the relationship, such as a marriage certificate, birth certificate, or similar proof.  Note:  if the dependents already have "derivative" status (e.g. H-4, F-2 or J-2), this proof is not necessary.

 It is necessary to submit copies of your dependents' I-94s.