Need urgent help with moving from H1 to F1

[Paras]

Hi all gurus,

Like all other companies my company is downsizing and my last day is August 22, 2002. The only option I currently have in hand is to apply for an F1 for a under graduate program. Can somebody share if they have had experience with similar situation. Some lawyers say that I can not start school till I receive the F1 approval. Is that true or if my application to change to F1 is received by the INS before August 22, 2002 I am fine. Any information in this regards will be a great help.

Thanks to all who read

 

[sdr22]

Hi,
I was in ur situation some time last year and had considered similar options. I know of folks who had earlier applied for changing their status to F1 and started going to school full time.
But I believe things have changed after 9/11.

I think it is more or less accurate that you need to wait for the approval in change in status from H1 to F1 before you can start school. I suggest you speak with a attorney and get a better idea.

Hope this helps. Good luck.

 

[jaxen]

Filing before Aug 22

saves your status.
It used be that mere I20 was enough to start attending school. Although there is no definite rules issued for H1 to F1, the school's immigration/international counsellor is your best bet for an accurate assessment of your situation.