Change of Status to F-1
Students in the United States in any non-immigrant status (except for C, D, K, M or J visas with residency requirements) can apply for a change of status to F-1. It is recommended that students consult with an ISS advisor.
Acquiring F-1 status
International students who are currently in the United States have 2 options for acquiring F-1 status:
- This option requires you to depart the United States and request an initial I-20 from
OCC.
- Once the I-20 is acquired, you must apply for an F-1 visa at the U.S. Embassy in your
home country. If approved for the F-1 visa, you can enter the U.S. in F-1 status based
on the program dates listed on the I-20.
- If you’re using this process, please follow the steps for prospective students outlined
on our Admissions page.
- Applying for a Change of Status is a complicated process that can take 12-18 months
for review and processing with USCIS.
- If you plan to pursue a Change of Status while remaining in the U.S., you must first
gain admission to OCC.
- Upon admission, you must complete the I-20 request form for a Change of Status I-20.
A Change of Status I-20 is a specific issuance category and is only used when applying directly to USCIS from inside the U.S. for a Change of Status.
- If you decide to depart the U.S. and apply for the F-1 visa from your home country, talk with an International Student Services advisor so that we can update the I-20 to an initial issuance category.