Can I get a college degree on J1?

[seay]

I am a research scholar on J1 at a univeristy in New York state. I have enrolled in a non-degree graduate program whose duration is one year. However, when I asked whether I can apply to a degree program and get a Master's degree on J1, the director of the international student service of that university told me that I cannot get a degree on J1. She said that only students on F1 are eligible for the degree. But some other people told me that it is possible for J1 holder to get degrees. So here I want to ask whether there are any policies of New York state which deny J1 holder's eligibility for degree. If such policies do exist, is it possible for me to switch my J1 status to F1 status inside USA without asking for waiver of two year FRR? Thank you very much for your help.

 

[gourab1]

1) If you have a 2 yr HRR, you cannot change from J1 to F1 in the US
2) If you are on J1 research scholar visa, the primary purpose of your visa is research (however,you are allowed to take classes on the side, with permission form the sponsor of your J1 scholarship). That's why there is an objection to your degree program.
take care.

Gourab

 

[davidm992]

I dont know the rules in NY, but in Florida you can enroll in college by having any immigration paperwork that shows that you are not illegal. However, depending on the visa or case you have you pay classes as an In or Out state student. Anyhow you are able to get the degree regardless the way you pay.

For example, I am getting a degree from a FL college, but paying as an Out-state student, until I get an approval on my case.
I hope this was the information you were asking for.

Good luck