# Change of Status

**Source**: https://oia.osu.edu/international-students/immigration-information/change-status
**Parent**: https://oia.osu.edu/

## **F-1 student to F-2 dependent**

To change from a student to a dependent status, your F-1 spouse must be in the United States in valid F-1 status at the time you request this change.

[View guidelines.](https://oia.osu.edu/international-students/immigration-information/change-status/change-status-f-1-student-f-2)

## **F-2 dependent to F-1 student**

To change your status while in the United States from a dependent (F-2) to a student (F-1) status, you will need to be admitted to a full-time academic program at a school that can issue you a Form I-20. In addition, your F-1 spouse must be in the United States and in status when you request this change.

As an F-2 visa holder, you are not eligible to be a full-time student. However, you may take courses on a part-time basis. If you wish to study full-time, you must apply for a change of status from F-2 to F-1. F-2 visa holders may also not receive wages or compensation of any kind until the F-1 status is approved.

[View guidelines.](https://oia.osu.edu/international-students/immigration-information/change-status/change-status-f-2-dependent-f-1)

## **H-1B or H-4 to F-1 student**

To change status while in the United States from a temporary specialty worker (H-1B) or worker dependent (H-4) to a student (F-1) status, you must be admitted to a full-time academic program at a school that can issue a Form I-20. You must also be in the United States and in valid H-1B/H-4 status at the time you request this change. As an H-1B/H-4 visa holder, you are able to attend school part-time or full-time, providing (for H-1Bs) that it does not interfere with your primary purpose of working in the United States; therefore, you will need a valid reason for requesting the change to F-1.

[View guidelines.](https://oia.osu.edu/international-students/immigration-information/change-status/change-status-h-1b-or-h-4-f-1-student)\

## **J-1 or J-2 to F-1 student**

Due to the complexity of J status regulations, the Office of International Affairs recommends that you speak with an immigration specialist before you begin the application process.

[View guidelines.](https://oia.osu.edu/international-students/immigration-information/change-status/change-status-j-1-or-j-2-f-1-student)\

## **B-2 tourist to F-1 student**

Requests for change from B-2 status to F-1 status receive special scrutiny by USCIS. Unless a person has a B-2 visa bearing the notation "prospective student,” the applicant must establish that he or she did not intend to study in the United States before entering as a B visitor. A visitor in B-1 or B-2 status is not permitted to begin a course of study until USCIS approves the change of status application.

[View guidelines.](https://oia.osu.edu/international-students/immigration-information/change-status/change-status-b-2-tourist-f-1-student)