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Change of Status

Overview

A Change of Status (COS) allows individuals in the United States to request a change from one nonimmigrant status to another through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

This is a legal immigration process that is separate from university procedures.

 

 
Important Information

Change of Status applications are reviewed and approved by USCIS

  • ISSS does not prepare, review, or submit COS applications
  • Students are strongly encouraged to consult with a qualified immigration attorney before applyingent

How ISSS Is Involved

ISSS may support students in limited ways depending on their situation.

1. Change of Status During Admissions

If you are admitted to CSUSB and are currently in another status (such as B-1/B-2):

  • You may request an F-1 I-20 from International Admissions
  • You may then apply for a Change of Status with USCIS

Important:

  • ISSS and International Admissions provide the I-20 only
  • Students are responsible for filing the COS application
  • Students should consult with an immigration attorney to determine eligibility

2. Change of Status After Beginning Studies

If you are currently studying at CSUSB and wish to change to F-1 status:

  • ISSS may issue an updated I-20 if appropriate
  • You must file your COS application with USCIS

Important:

  • You must ensure you are eligible for F-1 status
  • ISSS does not advise on application strategy or eligibility beyond general guidance

3. Change of Status Out of F-1

If you change from F-1 status to another status (or adjust status):

You must provide documentation to ISSS, such as:

  • Form I-797 (approval notice), and/or
  • Permanent Resident Card (if applicable)

ISSS will:

  • Update your immigration status in your student record

Important:

  • Changes to tuition residency classification are not determined by ISSS
  • Residency status is determined by the Office of the Registrar based on California regulations
 
When to Contact ISSS

You should contact ISSS if you:

  • Have questions about how your status change may impact your student record
  • Need an I-20 issued as part of the process
  • Have received approval and need your record updated

👉 Submit a Service Request or Schedule an Appointment

Final Reminder

Change of Status is a complex legal process. ISSS provides general information and institutional support but does not advise on or process applications.

Students are responsible for ensuring they meet all USCIS requirements.

Additional Information on Change of Status 

Advantages and Disadvantages

Leaving the US to Obtain F-1 Status
  • Advantage
    • Obtaining the F-1 visa status may be faster depending on appointment availability at your home country's US embassy or consulate
  • Disadvantage
    • There is the possibility of visa processing delay at the embassy / consulate office
    • Travel and visa interview expenses may be high for last-minute trips
Applying for Change of Status within the US
  • Advantage
    • Depending on your current visa status you may be able to continuing taking some courses.
    • Travel and visa interview expenses are not needed
  • Disadvantage
    • Some visa status does not allow you take any course in your degree program while the application is pending with USCIS.
    • There is no way expedite the application at USCIS.
    • You are not permitted study as an F-1 student until the F-1 application to USCIS is approved.
    • F-1 benefits are not applicable until application is approved. Such benefits include time counted for curricular practical training (CPT)/internship, and Optional Practical training (OPT).
    • Must remain in the U.S. while application is pending.
    • Once application is approved, once you leave the U.S. you will need to obtain the F-1 visa stamp before re-entering.

Possible Restrictions

  1. Individuals in J status who are subject to the two-year home-country residence requirement cannot do a change of status within the U.S.
  2. Persons admitted under the Visa Waiver Program (marked 'W/T' or 'W/B' on the I-94) cannot change nonimmigrant status.
  3. A vocational student in M status cannot change to F status.