Change of Status from B-2 to F-2
Who Qualifies/Eligibility
A change of non-immigrant status from B-2 to F-2 may be requested when the applicant:
- Has a spouse in valid F-1 status.
- Is in possession of a valid Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure card in the passport).
- Has been in the U.S. for more than 90 days.
Consultation with an International Education Advisor during advising hours is recommended to verify eligibility.
Step One
To begin the process of changing status, turn in the following documents to the Office of International Education:
- USCIS form: I-539
- Request for a New I-20
- USCIS Fee: $300 payable to USCIS
- I-94: Copy of both sides of the I-94 for both spouses
- Passport: Copy of identity page for both spouses, showing the expiration dates
- Visa: Copy of both spouses’ visas
- Funding: It is necessary to show one year’s worth of funding for the F-1 student, plus $5,000 of dependent expenses
- Proof of Current Status:
- Marriage certificate. If this is in a foreign language, an English translation must be attached.
- Spouse’s I-20.
Step Two
Within 7 business days, an International Education Advisor will contact you to set an appointment. At the appointment, you will:
- Sign your new SEVIS I-20.
- Provide any additional documentation requested by the International Education Advisor.
- Ask any questions you may have about the Change of Status process.
Step Three
After the appointment, the International Education Advisor will mail the Change of Status application to USCIS for adjudication. Normal processing time is approximately 90 days. Students will be notified when their documents have been returned.
Notes
- If you leave the U.S. and intend to reenter in F-2 status, you must request an F-2 visa at the U.S. Consulate before you return to the U.S.