From esta to B2 to F1 student visa HELP!

[tashabent 0]

Hi guys, I'm so confused and not sure which route to take. Here's my situation I've travelled to Miami a few times most of these trips I made in 2011(I went 4 times between may and September staying for between 1-2 weeks at a time) the reason I made these trips so often is because I had met someone a US citizen, it didn't work out but he is now one of my closest friends and also married. My last trip to the states was in July 2012 (Vegas) 10 days. 

I would now like to return to Miami as an international student applying for an F1 visa but before I take this leap I want to make sure both me and my daughter can adjust to the lifestyle, so I plan to go for 90 days enrol her into a school etc and see if this is feasible. My parents (gotta love them) and my married ex have said they will support me financially and help cover the costs of my tuition.  

If I stay for 90 days can I apply for an F1 visa while over there during the 90 day period or would I have to return to the UK to process it.

Also if I need more time to make my decision about studying over there and making sure my daughter is settled can I apply for a B2 visa during my 90 day stay or do I have to return home to do that?

Do they give a B2 visa if your reason is to see of you could stay and study there before actually making the full commitment.

I have ties to the UK my parents and siblings live here. I have no family in America only my friend. My reason for going is to study and get a degree in fashion I'm starting a clothing line and while I was in Miami I felt motivated and inspired. That's why I've chosen this university.

Please help (sorry for the long story)

[tashabent 0]

Just to make this clear I wasn't dating a married man, he got married a year after we split., he's prepared to help me with my move and provide financial support, I wonder If this will affect my application for a visa, I don't want the interviewer to think that he is a tie to USA. Hopefully his married status would deter this?

[aaron2020 11,651]

Your plan is a no go. You are essentially planning immigration fraud by using the VWP to come and remain longer than 90 days.

First, to use the VWP, you need proof that you are leaving before 90 days with plane tickets for leaving the US.

Second, what basis would you enroll a VWP child who is on "vacation in the US" as a full time student who "lives" in the US?

Third, no one in the US can be granted a B-2 visa.

Your plan is going to get you and your chil in a lot if immigration trouble.

Why can't you do it the proper way - apply and be accepted at your school, get the I-20, and apply for the F-1 visa from the UK?

[Harsh_77 718]

Unfortunately there is no visa to try things either you make the leap or you don't.

I will agree with Aaron you are creating a complicated situation with yours and your childs immigration status.

If your friend willing to give in writing he is going to support you thru college and is he willing to show all his financial assets including statements from bank, property etc.

If he is just verbally telling you than again the plan is no go as school would need all the documentation that shows you have enough finance to take care of your tution.

Is your friend aware how much does it cost for foregin national to go to school in US? Its approx 3-4 times the cost of USC going to the same school.

[Penguin_ie 5,996]

I agree with aaron. You can use the 90 days on the VWP to visit some schools and see if your daughter likes them, maybe do a "trial day", but they won't enroll a tourist.

If the life doesn't suit your daughter, would your parents or ex be prepared to take custody while you study?

[canadian_wife 1,827]

Agreed. As someone who was on an F-1 and who currently works in schools, your child won't be admitted if whe is under the VWP. It is all about funding. THe school is not receiving any funding for your child since she is a tourist. And no, you cannot pay the school to accept your child.

This situation is complicated and you are risking your future in the US. Apply to a school, get accepted and apply for an F-1 like everyone else. Since you have a child, I wouldn't uproot her life in the UK unless you are sure it is the best decision for her

good luck

[Asia 2,499]

You can't apply for any visa from the US.

You have to do it outside the US.

You can change status in the US.

I'm sure I'll be corrected if I'm wrong, but you can't change status from VWP to B2 or to F1.