The following information is provided to assist UT Tyler students to decide how to
address status issues. It is not meant as legal advice. Students are strongly encouraged
to consider obtaining the services of an immigration attorney who has experience assisting
students changing visa status categories.
F-1 student status is appropriate for individuals who intend to pursue full-time studies
in the United States. There are two ways to obtain F-1 status:
The Form I-20
For either approach, the prospective F-1 student will need to obtain a UT Tyler Form I-20. This requires:
- Full admission to an academic program appropriate for F-1 students. For example,
online and executive programs are not suitable because they don't meet F-1 enrollment
requirements.
- Proof of current valid status. If the applicant is a dependent (F-2, H-4, etc.) that
includes proof that the primary visa holder (F-1, H-1B, etc.) is in valid status.
- Proof of sufficient funds for at least one year of study. Check for the amount required
on the CFR.
Refer to the website of the consulate you will use for more information. You may
also wish to consult an immigration attorney.
Other Documents you will need at the Consulate
- SEVIS I-901 fee receipt
- UT Tyler Form I-20
- Any additional documents recommended by the consulate or an immigration attorney.
To do this, consult an immigration attorney.
Eligibility
- If you are not currently in a valid status, you are not eligible for a change of status
in the U.S.
- Visa categories C, D, K, M, WT, WB, or J subject to the 212(e) foreign resident requirement
are not eligible to file for a change of status in the U.S.
- Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is not a visa category, so TPS holders cannot file
for a change of status based solely on TPS status.
- If you apply for a change of status soon after arrival in the U.S., officials may
decide you fraudulently used the wrong visa.
- There is a high risk of denial for B-1/B-2 visa holders.
To obtain a Form I-20, submit the following to an International Student Advisor:
Other documents you will need for the application:
- SEVIS I-901 fee receipts
- I-539
- Application fee (new fees will go in to effect October 2, 2020; paper filing will change from $370
to $400 and online filing $370 to $390)
- Any additional documents recommended by an immigration attorney.
Forms - U.S. Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) - www.uscis.gov
SEVIS I-901 fee payment - www.fmjfee.com