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Change of status applies to students who are currently F-2, H-1 or others and who wish to change to F-1 while in the United States, as well an F-1 student who wishes to change to F-2.  This should be done before the expiration of your present status.

Procedures for applying for change of status

1. The student must be accepted at or be attending Dominican University (see exceptions to attendance below) as a full-time student, if changing TO F-1. You may either apply online (recommended) or mail your application to:

          USCIS Dallas Lockbox
          U.S. Postal Service (USPS):
          USCIS Attn: I-539 P.O. Box 660166 Dallas, TX 75266-0166

  • A completed I-539 (see Sue Ponremy about form)
  • A new, original SEVIS I-20 form (see DSO for form)
  • Photocopy of your I-94 card, visa and passport
  • Proof of financial support
  • Explanation as to why you wish to change your status
  • Proof of your current status. 
  • If F-1 changing to F-2, proof of a valid marriage through an official document.
  • If F-2 changing to F-1, proof of active status of principle F-1 at time of submission.
  • Certified check or money order made payable to Department of Homeland Security for $370.00  A separate certified check or money order made payable to Department of Homeland Security for $85.00 for biometrics. You may also pay by credit card or debit card online.
  • Proof of payment of $350.00 SEVIS fee https://www.fmjfee.com (not required for Change of Status from F-1 to F-2).

2. Change of Status is NOT a visa. If you leave the U.S., you must go to your home country to obtain an F-1 or F-2 visa in order to re-enter.

3. This is not for persons here under Visa Waiver

4. B-2 non-immigrants changing to F-1 may not attend until the Change of Status has been approved.

5. F-2 non-immigrants changing to F-1 may attend part time until Change of Status has been approved.

6. All applicants must notify the DSO if the Change of Status has not been approved by the start date of the I-20.  The DSO must defer attendance with a new start and end date until a decision has been made.

Please be aware that this process has become very difficult and may take up to or more than one year.