How to Change Your Visa Status from J-1 to F-1 for Continued Studies
Many cultural exchange visitors decide to remain in the U.S. for full-time study after completing their J-1 program. However, you can change from J-1 to F-1 status only if you meet several important requirements.
Eligibility Requirements
To change your status, you must:
- Be in valid J-1 status
- Not be subject to the two-year home residency requirement, or obtain a waiver
- Receive acceptance from a SEVP-certified school
- File before your J-1 program ends
The Change-of-Status Process
1. Get Accepted and Receive Your Form I-20
Your institution will issue a Form I-20 detailing your academic program.
2. File Form I-539 with USCIS
Submit your change of status application as early as possible.
3. Maintain Your J-1 Status While Waiting
You must continue abiding by all J-1 visa regulations until approval.
When You Must Leave the U.S.
If your J-1 program ends before your F-1 petition is approved, you may be required to:
- Leave the U.S.
- Apply for an F-1 visa at a consulate abroad
- Re-enter the U.S. under F-1
Best Practices
- Apply early (ideally 90–120 days before J-1 end date)
- Keep your passport valid
- Avoid unauthorized work or activities
Michelle Danner Acting Studio is one of the best acting schools in California and the U.S.
For international students who require a student visa, our Los Angeles Acting School issues the I-20 Form, which will allow you to apply for a student visa.We are able to sponsor actors to study for up to three years. We offer a three-year well-rounded acting conservatory. We also offer a 3, 6, and 12-month conservatory acting program, as well as short- and long-term acting intensives for beginner, intermediate, and advanced actors who are committed to realizing their dreams of being accomplished actors.
What Makes Our Acting School One of the Best in the U.S.?
Our acting school is for proactive people who want to work as actors on stage, film, and television. The techniques and tools we impart can be used when approaching a role or a scene, for film, television, or theater.
- Our philosophy is that you can draw upon all different acting techniques, including Meisner, Strasberg, Adler, Hagen, Chekhov, and Stanislavski to form your own individual toolbox.
- You will learn from working actors, directors, and producers and are encouraged to get out into the real world and audition for short films, independent projects, and web series once you are ready. Learn Acting at one of the Best Acting Schools in Los Angeles
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