Change B2 Tourist Visa to F1 Student Visa: Possible or Not?

It is possible to change from a B2 tourist visa to an F1 student visa without leaving the United States, but it involves a specific process and certain conditions. Here are the steps and considerations:

Steps to Change from a B2 Tourist Visa to an F1 Student Visa

1. Admission to a SEVP-Approved School:

o Apply to and get accepted by a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-approved institution in the United States.

o Receive a Form I-20, ""Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status,"" from the institution.

2. Maintain Valid B2 Status:

o Ensure that you maintain your valid B2 status throughout the application process. You cannot change status if your B2 visa has expired.

3. File Form I-539:

o Complete and submit Form I-539, ""Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status,"" to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

o Include the necessary documentation, such as:

 A copy of your Form I-20.

 Proof of financial support.

 A copy of your B2 visa and passport.

 A statement explaining why you want to change your status and how you plan to comply with the F1 visa requirements.

4. Pay the SEVIS Fee:

o Pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) fee online at FMJFee.com.

o Include the SEVIS fee receipt with your Form I-539 application.

5. Pay the Filing Fee:

o Pay the Form I-539 filing fee. As of 2024, the fee is $370, plus an $85 biometric services fee (if applicable).

6. Biometrics Appointment:

o If required, attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints and photos.

7. Wait for USCIS Decision:

o USCIS will process your application, which can take several months. During this time, ensure that you do not violate the terms of your B2 status.

Important Considerations

1. Timing:

o Apply for the change of status well before your B2 status expires. It is advisable to apply at least 45 days before your B2 visa expires.

2. Starting Classes:

o You cannot start your classes until USCIS approves your change of status. Ensure your school understands your situation and can accommodate a delayed start if necessary.

3. Travel Restrictions:

o Once you have applied for a change of status, you should not leave the US until your application is approved. Leaving the US while your application is pending will be considered as abandoning the application.

Alternative: Leaving and Reapplying

If you prefer or if your change of status is denied, you can leave the US and apply for an F1 visa at a US consulate or embassy in your home country. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Get Your Form I-20:

o Obtain the Form I-20 from your SEVP-approved school.

2. Complete the DS-160 Form:

o Fill out the DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form, available on the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC).

3. Pay the SEVIS Fee:

o Pay the SEVIS fee online and keep the receipt.

4. Schedule a Visa Interview:

o Schedule an appointment for a visa interview at the US embassy or consulate in your home country.

5. Attend the Interview:

o Attend the interview with all necessary documentation, including your passport, Form I-20, DS-160 confirmation page, SEVIS fee receipt, proof of financial support, and any other required documents.

6. Receive Your F1 Visa:

o If approved, you will receive your F1 visa, which allows you to enter the US as a student.

By following these steps and considerations, you can either change your status from B2 to F1 while in the US or leave and reapply for an F1 visa from your home country.