Change to F1 Student Status
65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, N.Y., 11367 telephone: 718-997-5718 fax: 718-997-5723 email: inga.mezale@qc.cuny.edu        
         
If you are filing a petition for a change of status, you should submit certain information along with your application. Failure to do so may result in unwanted delays or your petition being denied.
 
 
 
Question: What documents are required for a change of status application?
 
Answer: You will need:
 
1. A completed Form I-539 (application to extend/change non-immigrant status)
 
2. A suggested letter of explanation.
 
3. Your I-20AB Form signed by you.
 
4. Evidence of financial support. (The same evidence that you have submitted to get your I-20 Form)
 
a. If the student has a sponsor, evidence should include an Affidavit or Affidavits of support, bank statements from the sponsor, and sponsor's proof of income.
 

b. If the student has personal funds, then evidence should include bank statements in his/her name, and proof of income (income tax, W2 Form or Employment letter)

 
5. Your original Form I-94 (arrival/departure record - the white cards stapled in your passport)
 
6. A copy of identity and visa pages of a valid passport.
 
7. A $300 fee in the form of a check or money order made payable to the USDHS
  (United States Department of Homeland Security)      
 
8. A $200 I-901 fee. (Visit fmjfee.com or ask an international students advisor for futher details.)
 
9. An acceptance letter from the director of the English Language Institute at Queens College.
 

 
 
 
 
Question: How do I file my application?
 
Answer: Bring your complete application with all the documents described above to Inga Mezale, the ELI International Student Advisor. After your aplication package is reviewed, you will send your application to the USCIS by certified mail with a return receipt request to:
 

USCIS, Vermont Service Center, 75 Lower Welden Street, St. Albans, VT, 05479

 
When the USCIS has made a decision on your application, your I-20 and I-94 will be returned to you. Be sure to photocopy your completed package for your personal record.