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How do I change status--From J to F?

Filling out I-539

Why would you need to change your visa status?

If you entered the U.S. on a J visa and now wish to study on an F visa, you will need to change your status. Please see the international student advisor if you have questions about the conditions under which you might wish to change your status.

NOTE from DHS Instructions for Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status: A J-1 exchange visitor whose status is for the purpose of receiving graduate medical education or training, who has not received the appropriate waiver, is ineligible for any change of status. Also, a J-1 subject to the foreign residence requirement, who has not received a waiver of that requirement, is not eligible to change to F status.

Check List For Changing status:

On a separate sheet of paper, answer the following questions and be prepared to discuss them with the International student advisor:

  1. Explain why you did not enter the U.S. in the F-1 or F-2 status you now seek?
  2. Have you been engaging in the activities for which you were admitted to the United States by the Citizenship and Immigration Services? Explain:
  3. After you entered the U.S., you decided to attend school. What information or other factors led you to make that decision?
  4. In what country do you intend to live and study after you have completed your studies in the United States? Why
  5. Explain how your course of study will help you academically or professionally after you leave the U.S.

You will send the following to USCIS:

Send documents to:

USCIS California Service Center
P O Box 10539
Laguna Niguel, CA 92607-0539