Changing from b2 to f1?

[Transborderwife 4,666]

Is it possible to change a b2 to an f1 visa? I know of someone (not me in aos process now) who came down on a b2 and is interested in school here.

[Ian H. 207]

You would have to apply for a school first and be accepted. Then you have to apply for the F1 visa category. If you are already in the states you have to change your status.

Here is info on student visas:

http://travel.state.gov/content/visas/english/study-exchange/student.html

Edited November 16, 2014 by Ian H.

[Ian H. 207]

Here is a link with the application to change your status from B2 to F1.

http://www.uscis.gov/i-539

[dsohere 0]

OK- it's not a good idea to apply to change status from B-2 to F-1. There is a high denial rate. They do not like it when people enter as tourists who really intend to study, it's a sign of fraudulent intent.

Also- it can be hard to get another visa next time you do travel home, so let's say you do get the sucessful change of status to F-1 and then go home to see family- you may be denied an F-1 visa to return to complete your studies.

In general- it's best for the B-2 to go home and apply for the F-1 visa. If you really cannot go home- then wait at least 90 days after entering the US and don't even visit a school or apply to school during this time.

And if someone does want to apply- definitely get an attorney, don't file the I-539 by yourself. It may seem simple, but nothing really is with USCIS.