Time between J-1 and F-1, change of status

[Anna555 0]

I have a super important question that just came up and I hope someone can help me: My J-1 expires on 7/23. My college has an orientation week for new students starting on 8/26. Regular college starts on 9/9. What are my chances in getting an F-1 change of status?
I have a 30 days grace period after the J-1 and I am allowed 30 days prior my studies. What can I do now?? Thank you!!!!

[le_chat_fou 0]

Hi! I am not too familiar with the J-1 visa (student exchange, right?) but as far as the F-1, you can go talk directly with your college. They should an office the deals with international students or at least some sort of adviser that handles these cases. The office in charge of these types of cases at university I went to are very thorough with all the paperwork they handle (since it is in a border city and has a heavy influx of international students) and with all the questions I had. They had me go to a mandatory orientation to get my visa. In the orientation they gave me a checklist with all the documentation I needed to apply for the visa. They were the middle men and sent in my application for me.

If I were you, I would go ASAP to inquire about the process the college you plan on going to uses and also about how your current status can affect what you want to do. Well.. as best as they can. These advisers as not immigration lawyers but can definitely guide you in the correct direction.

All of these dates you mentioned are coming up soon! Go ask before you miss other deadlines you might not be aware of. Also, start gathering documents related to your high school (or equivalent) education and such.

Good luck!!