Students currently studying at Illinois State University in other nonimmigrant statuses may be eligible to change to F-1 student visa status. This page is designed to give students general guidance and should not be considered legal advice. ISSS encourages all students considering a change of status to consult with an experienced immigration attorney and refer to U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services and the U.S. Department of State for details regarding the application process and eligibility requirements.
Change of status can be accomplished in two ways:
Most students apply for a change of status by traveling and reentering the U.S. This option is usually much faster than remaining in the U.S. and applying for a change of status through USCIS. However, it is important to note that (as with any international travel) there is always risk involved. ISSS has noticed an increase in the number of visa denials reported by ISU students attempting to change status via travel. F-1 status is a nonimmigrant status, so you must be able to prove ties to your home country and residence abroad.
STEP 1: Submit a Change of Status Request to ISSS via the ISSS Portal in order to obtain your new I-20. Make sure you sign and date your new document.
STEP 2: Pay the SEVIS fee online at fmjfee.com and print your receipt
STEP 3: Depart the U.S. and use your new I-20 to apply for your F-1 visa. Visit the Department of State's Study & Exchange website for general instructions on how to apply for a F-1 student visa and locate the website of the U.S. embassy or consulate where you will apply for any specific requirements at that location. You can also review NAFSA's 10 Points to Remember When Applying for a Student Visa for further guidance.
STEP 4: After you have successfully entered the U.S. as an F-1 student, complete the International Student Document Collection process. Then visit your ISSS advisor during walk-in hours so that your SEVIS record can be activated.
For some students, remaining in the U.S. while changing status is the better option. Change of status within the U.S. can take several months. You can find the most up-to-date processing time information on the USCIS website (select I-539 for the form type and the Vermont Service Center). You should consult with an immigration attorney prior to choosing this option.
There are several nonimmigrant statuses permitted to study in the U.S., but only certain statuses are permitted to apply for a change of status from within the U.S. Below are several resources that can help you determine whether you are eligible to change status from within the U.S. and what the process entails.
When applying for a change of status to F-1 from within the United States, individuals must prove:
The application must be filed in a timely manner. Applicants for a change of status to F-1 must be in a valid status at the time the application is filed.
STEP 1: Submit a Change of Status Request to ISSS via the ISSS Portal in order to obtain your new I-20. Make sure you sign and date your new document.
STEP 2: Pay the SEVIS fee online at fmjfee.com and save a digital copy of your receipt.
STEP 3: Gather your Form I-539 application materials.
STEP 4: Apply for your change of status through USCIS. To apply for the change of status, you will need to complete a Form I-539 Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status This form can now be filed online. You should visit the USCIS website for complete details and the most up-to-date instructions on how to apply.
STEP 5: After submitting your online application to USCIS, you should immediately receive a Receipt Notice. Upoad a copy of your USCIS Receipt Notice in Change of Status Receipt Notice Upload request. We will add this document to your file and make sure your record is updated to show the pending application. Once you have your Receipt Notice, you can check your case status on the USCIS website.
STEP 6: While your application is pending, you:
STEP 7: After you have received your Approval Notice from USCIS, notify ISSS so that your SEVIS record can be updated. If you receive a Request for Information or a Denial Notice, please contact ISSS immediately.