Remain in F1 Status while waiting for Visa Priority Date

[AbacoGal79]

I am a citizen of The Bahamas and will be graduating with my MBA from a Texas University in December, 2009 and have activated my OPT to begin February, 2010.

My I-130 Green Card Petition by my brother (US Citizen) was approved in August, 2009.
US Department of State estimates a visa number will become available to me in November, 2010.

I want to remain in the US throughout the whole residency adjustment process so in the event that I am unable to find a job in this 'crazy' economy by May 2010 - I would like to know:

If it is true that I can remain in the US even with an expired F1 Visa, as long as I have a valid I-20 and am maintaining full-time status?

What are my options with the type of degree?
Do I have to pursue a PhD program?
Can I go for a 2nd Masters degree or even a 2nd Bachelors or Associates?

THANKS for the help!

Kim

 

[maihuynh82]

I am a citizen of The Bahamas and will be graduating with my MBA from a Texas University in December, 2009 and have activated my OPT to begin February, 2010.

My I-130 Green Card Petition by my brother (US Citizen) was approved in August, 2009.
US Department of State estimates a visa number will become available to me in November, 2010.

I want to remain in the US throughout the whole residency adjustment process so in the event that I am unable to find a job in this 'crazy' economy by May 2010 - I would like to know:

If it is true that I can remain in the US even with an expired F1 Visa, as long as I have a valid I-20 and am maintaining full-time status?

What are my options with the type of degree?
Do I have to pursue a PhD program?
Can I go for a 2nd Masters degree or even a 2nd Bachelors or Associates?

THANKS for the help!

Kim

It's true when you I-94 print F1/DS. Means as long as you are in school, you are legal even Your F-1 Visa expired. The expired date in you visa means the time allow you to travel out of U.S within that time. If your is expired, you need to renew to come back to U.S.



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08/26/07: Came to U.S. on F-1 Visa
08/12/09: Married to a USC. ( after 2 years living together)
09/16/09: Applications sent for AOS (485/130/765/131).
09/23/09: Received notice receipt
10/25/09: Called USCIS to ask why I have not received anything
10/28/09: Travel documents approved notice
10/29/09: Receive Fingerprint notice scheduled on 11/12/09
11/12/09: Done biometrics. (Told EAD approved, wait about 10 days to receive)
Waiting...