Office of International Student Services : Change of Status

Nonimmigrant F-1
Overview of Information

To request a change of nonimmigrant visa classification to that of F-1 student, the following documentation needs to be presented to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services:

• Letter

• Financial Documentation

• I-539 completed

• $200.00

• Valid Passport

• If your current nonimmigrant visa classification is F-2 or H-4, the passport, Form I-20, and Form I-94 of spouse also needs to be brought to the appointment.

This procedure is to be used by individuals who have entered the United States on visitor visas (B1 or B2) and have “prospective student” written below their visa or on their Form I-94.  It may also be used by individuals on dependent visas (i.e. F-2 or H-4).

Change of Status
Detailed Information

1.      Personal Letter titled: “To Whom It May Concern”

1. Introduction: indicate your name, country of foreign residence, and that you are

Requesting a change of your nonimmigrant visa classification to F-1 student

In order for you to complete a degree (clarify your academic program).

2.      Financial Documentation:

1. Documentation demonstrating your financial ability to pay for tuition, fees, and your

Basic living expenses while pursuing a full course of study;

3.      Complete Form I-539;

4.   $100.00 SEVIS Fee to be paid at www.fmjfee.com

5.      $200.00 check or money order payable to the Department of Homeland Security

6.      You must have a valid passport (minimum six additional months), Form I-20 and Form I-94;

7.      If your current nonimmigrant visa classification is F-2 or H-4, the passport, Form I-20, and Form I-94 of spouse also needs to be brought to the appointment.