Change of Status to F-1 Student
​If you are in the United States in valid nonimmigrant status for a purpose other than to attend school and wish to change your nonimmigrant status to a student status while remaining in the United States, you must meet the criteria below and submit an application with USCIS to change your status.
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In general, you may apply to change your nonimmigrant status while remaining in the United States if:
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you were lawfully admitted to the United States in a nonimmigrant status;
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your nonimmigrant status remains valid;
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you have not violated the conditions of your status; and
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you have not committed any crimes or engaged in any other actions that would make you ineligible for change of status.
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Application
​To apply for a change of status please click on the button below and choose the Change of Status option.
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These are the steps you must take for your change of status:​
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Apply to and receive acceptance from a U.S. Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school.
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Obtain an initial Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, from the SEVP-certified school. The Designated School Official (DSO) should give change of status in the Issue Reason section of the Form I-20.
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Pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee - (fmjfee.com).
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Contact an immigration lawyer that will help you to file a Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, with USCIS. Any mistake in filling this form can result in a denial of your application.
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Pay a non-refundable tuition deposit of $400. In case your visa is approved and you enroll at PACE for classes, PACE will discount that amount from your tuition fee.