International Students

Change of Status

F-1 Student to F-2 Dependent

In order to change from a student to dependent status, your F-1 spouse must be in the United States in valid F-1 status at the time you are requesting this change.

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F-2 Dependent to F-1 Student

In order to change status while in the U.S. from a dependent (F-2) to a student (F-1) status you will need to be admitted to a full-time academic program at a school that can issue you a Form I-20. In addition, your F-1 spouse must be in the U.S. and in status when you are requesting this change.

As an F-2 visa holder, you are not eligible to be a full-time student. However you are able to take courses on a part-time basis. Therefore, if you wish to study full time, you must apply for a change of status from F-2 to F-1. F-2 visa holder may also not receive wages or compensation of any kind until the F-1 status is approved.

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H-1B or H-4 to F-1 Student

In order to change status while in the U.S. from a temporary specialty worker (H-1B) or worker dependent (H-4) to a student (F-1) status you will need to be admitted to a full-time academic program at a school that can issue a Form I-20. You must also be in the U.S. and in valid H-1B/H-4 status at the time you request this change. Valid Reason For Change As an H-1B/H-4, you are able to attend school part-time or full-time, providing (for H-1Bs) it does not interfere with your primary purpose of working in the United States; therefore, you will need a valid reason for requesting the change to F-1.

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J-1 or J-2 to F-1 Student

Due to the complexity of J status regulations, the Office of International Affairs recommends that you speak with an advisor before you begin the application process.

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B-2 Tourist to F-1 Student

A nonimmigrant B-2 visitor for pleasure may wish to change to F-1 student status if the following applies:

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