Change of Status J1 to F1

[mrblack61]

Hi, I am currently in the process of changing my status from J1 to F1. The college I got my I-20 from made me start studying already and when I talked to a lawyer I was told this is a problem and might be a problem for my case. I contacted to the college and they told me that J1 students are allowed to study when they are in the process of change of status. Anyone had an idea about it?

[newacct]

Does your J1 have the INA 212(e) two-year home residency requirement?

[flyingron]

In addition to the home residency point that newacct wisely brings up, it matters much what exactly you are "studying" on the J-1. Despite what your school told you. J-1 is not carte blanche to take any course of study you want.