ISSS works with academic departments to support F-1 and J-1 students to maintain their immigration status.

Academic department responsibilities for H-1B, J-1 Student Intern and J-1 Scholar international exchange visitors.

The process and documents required to apply for your U.S. visa.

To obtain your I-20 or DS-2019 Form, you must show you have the financial resources to support your academic year.

Change status within the United StatesIn general, non-immigrants who are maintaining lawful status may apply for a change of status within the U.S. by applying to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Changing Status by Travel (Recommended by ISSS)It is possible to change visa status by leaving the U.S. and applying for a student visa at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.  Once you enter the U.S. with your student visa you will have that status (as indicated on your I-94 card).

Ensuring the validity of all information on your I-20/DS-2019 is an important part of maintaining your status. If any changes occur to the information on your forms, you may need to update your I-20/DS-2019.

Changing to F-1 Immigration statusIf you are in the United States in a valid immigration status, you may be eligible to change your status to F-1. A visa is different from nonimmigrant status.  A visa is physically stamped inside your passport.  There are two ways to change your status: