F1 Student Visa Support

Change Your Visa Status to F1 with Paid Work Eligibility

Whether you're on a J-1, B1/B2, H-1B, or another visa type, we handle your change of status from start to finish so you can stay in the U.S., earn a graduate degree, and gain paid work eligibility.

Let's Get Started

Free consultation · No commitment required

Your information is 100% confidential and never shared.

Visa Pathways

Switch to F-1 From Almost Any Visa Category!

We've processed thousands of change of status cases across nearly every visa type. Here are the most common transitions we support.

J1 → F1

Before DS-2019 expires

If you’re in the U.S. on a J-1 visa, we guide you through changing to F-1 student status before your DS-2019 expires. This ensures you can stay, continue your studies, and gain eligibility for paid work from the first day.

B1 / B2 → F1

No travel required

For those on a B1 or B2 tourist visa, we manage your change of status so you can enroll in a graduate program and begin earning paid work while studying, all without leaving the U.S.

F1 → F1 Transfer

SEVIS transfer

If you’re already on an F-1 visa but want to move to a new program, we handle your SEVIS transfer to confirm enrollment, maintain your status, and secure work authorization throughout the transition.

ESL → Graduate

F1 continuation

Students currently in an ESL program can smoothly transition to a graduate program on F-1 status. We manage the transfer process to ensure your enrollment and work eligibility continue without interruption.

How it Works

Your Change of Status Process, Step-by-Step

We've simplified the Change of Status process into four clear steps. Our team handles the complex paperwork - you focus on your next chapter.

1. Free Eligibility Review

We assess your current visa status, timeline, and goals to confirm you qualify for a change of status to F-1 and recommend the best path forward.

2. Alliant Application and I-20

Apply to an accredited graduate program through our partner university. Once admitted, your I-20 is issued and we help you prepare and file your I-539 change of status application with USCIS. Premium processing is available.

3. Status Approved - Prepare for Day 1 CPT

Once approved, your F-1 status is active. You're enrolled in your program and eligible for paid work authorization from the first day of classes through Day 1 CPT.

After Your Switch

What Happens After Your Change of Status Is Approved

Changing your status isn't just about staying in the U.S. - it opens the door to a graduate degree and paid work authorization you didn't have before.



Earn an Accredited Graduate Degree

Enroll in WASC and ACBSP accredited master's programs designed for working professionals. Complete your degree in 12–16 months with a hybrid course schedule.



Gain Paid Work Eligibility

F-1 students in these programs are eligible for paid, off-campus work authorization starting from the first day of classes - something most visa types don't offer.



Live Anywhere in the U.S.

With only two in-person requirements per term, you can live and work in any U.S. state. Our students are located across almost all 50 states, from New York to Hawaii.



Post Graduation Work Opportunities

After completing your degree, you're eligible for OPT work authorization — and STEM-designated programs qualify for an additional 24-month extension.

Programs That Make Your Change of Status Possible

Our partner university, Alliant University, offers graduate programs specifically structured for international students going through a change of status. EduConnect USA is Alliant's official international enrollment partner for the School of Management and Leadership — meaning we manage your application, visa process, and work placement from start to finish.

Programs include interest-free payment plans, grants up to $6,000, and are designed around an executive format so you can work while you study.

Our Student Testimonials

Hear From Students Who Made the Switch

They Changed Their Status. Now They're Changing Their Careers.

“The staff were professional, supportive, and guided me clearly through every step of the process. Their assistance gave me confidence and peace of mind, and I truly appreciate their dedication to helping students.”

JAY-AR

B2 to F1

“I had a very good experience with EduConnect USA. EduConnect USA helped me a lot and they're very responsive. I would highly recommend EduConnect USA to anyone looking for reliable educational support and guidance.”

SHAIRA ANNE MAE LIBO-ON

J1 to F1

“The team supported me step by step through the entire admission process with professionalism, attention, and care. They were always helpful, resourceful, and quick to respond. I would strongly recommend them.”

NICOLE ARLINI

J1 to F1

Common Change of Status Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a change of status?

A change of status (COS) allows you to switch from one nonimmigrant visa category to another while remaining in the United States. For example, if you're on a J-1 exchange visitor visa or B1/B2 tourist visa, you can apply to change to F-1 student status through USCIS without leaving the country. The process involves filing Form I-539 with supporting documents including your I-20 from an accredited university.

How long does a change of status take?

Standard processing typically takes 3–5 months. However, premium processing is available for an additional fee and can reduce the timeline to approximately 30 business days. Processing times vary based on USCIS workload and your specific case — our team monitors your application and keeps you updated throughout.

What are my chances of getting visa approved?

Our change of status approval rate is 99.5% across thousands of cases. The key to a successful application is proper documentation, correct timing, and a legitimate enrollment in an accredited program. Our team reviews every application before submission to ensure nothing is missed.

When can I start working after my change of status is approved?

Once your change of status to F-1 is approved and your program start date arrives, you are eligible for work authorization from the first day of classes. If you already have an employer, we help with the transition. If not, our CareerConnect team provides work placement support to help you find a paid position.

What is premium processing?

Premium processing is a USCIS service that guarantees a response on your change of status application within 30 business days for an additional fee. It doesn't guarantee approval, but it significantly speeds up the timeline. We recommend premium processing for applicants with expiring visas or time-sensitive situations.

My DS-2019 is expiring, what should I do?

If your DS-2019 is expiring, you may still be eligible to change your status to F-1 as long as you file before your current status expires. Timing is critical. Contact us for a free eligibility review so we can assess your timeline and get the process started immediately.

Do I need to leave the U.S. to change my visa status?

No. The entire change of status process is handled domestically through USCIS. You do not need to visit a consulate or leave the country. You remain in the U.S. throughout the application, approval, and enrollment process.

Check Your Eligibility

Please fill out the form and we will be in touch as soon as we can!