How to Change Your Status to F-1

Last week, we talked about what it means to change your status and determine if you are eligible. If you are still trying to change your status, there are a few documents that you will need to prepare and fees you must pay. 

The first part of the process is to apply and be accepted by a SEVP-approved school. Schools will have different application requirements and fees. Applying to American English Language School will require you to submit an AELS application form along with copies of your passport, bank statement, and high school diploma or equivalent. 

When you have been accepted into a SEVP-approved school, the school will issue your I-20 form. Your I-20 form should have ‘change of status’ as the issue reason stated on your I-20 form. 

After you receive your I-20 form, you will need to pay the I-901 SEVIS Fee. You will also need proof of your payment, so print a receipt. In order to pay this fee, you will need to provide the following:

●       Name, address, date of birth, and email address.

●       Country of birth and country of citizenship.

●       School Code as listed on the Form I-20 “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status.”

●       SEVIS Identification Number as listed on your Form I-20. 

Next, you must file Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Status. After you have filed your application and paid your fees, your application will be considered “pending” and you will need to await the final decision. You are not able to enroll in your chosen school until your application has been approved. If you are still in the pending status by your intended start date, you will need to contact your DSO to postpone your start date. 

To apply to AELS’s ESL program, send your application documents to admission@aels.edu or fill out an inquiry form on our website: www.aels.edu today!

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Published on August 11, 2022

A leading English language school accredited by the CEA (Commission on English Language Accreditation) and approved by SEVP (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) located in Los Angeles, California. Learn English in LA with our ESL classes, TOEFL preparation, and English speaking classes. Are you serious about improving your English? Join a class today!