I’m from Pakistan and currently in the U.S. on a B-2 visitor visa. I have been processing my admission from Pakistan, and I recently got accepted into a university program. Can I change my visa status to start studying without leaving the country?

Yes, you can apply for a change of status from B-2 to F-1 by filing Form I-539 with USCIS, along with your Form I-20 from the school and proof of financial support. You must wait for approval before beginning your studies.

It’s important not to enroll in classes until your change of status to F-1 is approved. Starting school while still in B-2 status is a violation of visa conditions and could affect your immigration record.

Processing times for a change of status can take several months. If your program is starting soon, consider consular processing by returning to your home country and applying for an F-1 visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate instead.