f1 WHEN CAN I DROP OUT OF SCHOOL AFTER MARRIAGE?

[jordanmic 4]

Hi guys,

 

I'm an F1 student and I'm marrying my boyfriend in January 2019. My visa expires on December 2018 but my I-20 ends on December 2022 (that's when I'll graduate with my bachelors).

 

Tuition for international students is high so it seems like a smart financial decision to drop out after getting married and re-applying after I get approved for in-state tuition in California.

 

My question is when can I drop out without jeopardizing my legal status, is it after I file for status adjustment?

 

Thank you.

[Hypnos 6,576]

Yes, after USCIS have accepted your I-485.

[geowrian 22,337]

Once the I-485 is accepted, you have authorized stay while that is pending. If you drop out and lose status, you remain allowed to stay in the US while AOS is pending.

If AOS were denied for some reason and you dropped out, then you would be out of status and no longer protected by an authorized stay unless you are able to refile for AOS and do so (i.e. no NTA is issued).

 

I'll also add that some institutions will permit treating you as a resident once filed as well. Check with the institution to confirm.

[jordanmic 4]

Thanks for the prompt reply guys. When you say USCIS "accepted" the package, you mean when they've received it?

[SusieQQQ 11,586]

25 minutes ago, jordanmic said:

Thanks for the prompt reply guys. When you say USCIS "accepted" the package, you mean when they've received it?

When you get the NOA.