Hi,

I'm pursuing a master's degree with a fellowship which stipulates that I have to be on a J1 visa. The visa also states that I have to return to my home country for two years after the course. This is a one year course. I have received a transfer to a course with 2 more years. I still need funding from the fellowship for at least one more year.

I've checked the Skills list and my course is on it.

Should I extend my J1, try to get the funding from the fellowship for one more year? And THEN apply for a waiver and switch to F1? If I am able to pay my own way for the last year, can I apply for a waiver and then switch to F1?

If I choose not to transfer at all, do I apply for the waiver and then find an employer?

I'm quite confused as to how this works. Please help me out.