Converting from h4 to f1 during a course

[Soumi.nbr]

Hello,

I have been reading all the threads trying to find out how immigration things work in the US. However, I have a question which I have not seen anyone ask before. I will be moving to the U.S by mid April with an H4 visa. Since the chances of employment are thin, I have made up my mind to do masters in a technical institute. I understand that I can do this with the H4 visa but cannot do OPT. Since my sole intention of studying is employment, I would like to convert to F1 visa. Now for the question:

1. Can I join for my masters in H4 visa and convert to F1 later during the course, say after a semester or two?
2. Is it mandatory to go out of the U.S. And re-enter the country for this conversion or can it be done staying there?

Thanks in advance,

soumi

[raghvi]

Hello,

I have been reading all the threads trying to find out how immigration things work in the US. However, I have a question which I have not seen anyone ask before. I will be moving to the U.S by mid April with an H4 visa. Since the chances of employment are thin, I have made up my mind to do masters in a technical institute. I understand that I can do this with the H4 visa but cannot do OPT. Since my sole intention of studying is employment, I would like to convert to F1 visa. Now for the question:

1. Can I join for my masters in H4 visa and convert to F1 later during the course, say after a semester or two?
2. Is it mandatory to go out of the U.S. And re-enter the country for this conversion or can it be done staying there?

Thanks in advance,

soumi

1. Yes possible.
2. Not mandatory, but evaluate your chances of F1 as it has its own set of requirements.

This is my opinion not legal advice.

[f22raptor]

One of the key factors during F1 stamping looked at by the consulate is your willingness to return to your home country. If you are on H4 and then convert to F1, you may not be in a good position for visa stamping as it clearly shows you have someone dependent in the US. If you do get a F1 while in the US, plan not to go back unless you move to H classification.