Students on their laptops in the library

Change to F-1 Status

Basics for Changing to F-1 Status

There are two ways to change your current immigration status to F-1 status.

  • Option 1: Leave the U.S. and apply for an F-1 visa
    • You need to be issued a new initial I-20.
  • Option 2: Submit a Change of Status application with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
    • You need to be issued a Change of Status I-20. 
    • This process can take 10 months or more.
    • Applicants holding a specific immigration status may not be eligible to request a change of status while in the U.S.
    • Students requesting a Change of Status to F-1 while in the U.S. are recommended to speak with an Immigration Attorney to assist with the Change of Status process.

Steps for Changing to F-1 Status

To request ISSS to issue your Initial I-20 or Change of Status I-20, there are multiple steps:

  1. Meet with an Immigration Coordinator

    Call 414-229-4846 to make an appointment.

  2. Request your I-20

    After you meet with an Immigration Coordinator, you will be provided instructions on how to request your I-20.

    ​Please note that issuance of an I-20 does not constitute F-1 status.

  3. Obtain your I-20

  4. Complete the F-1 Visa Application or the Change of Status Application

After you Apply for your F-1 Visa or Change of Status to F-1

Students Who Left the U.S. to Obtain an F-1 Visa
  • If you obtain an F-1 visa:
    • You must enter the U.S. on your F-1 visa.
      • You cannot request entry to the U.S. more than 30 days prior to the Program Start Date listed on your I-20.
    • After entry to the U.S. you must complete the Arrival Check-In record in your ISSS Connect portal.
    • Complete any additional orientation and arrival requirements.
    • ISSS will validate your F-1 status in SEVIS.
    • You must maintain your F-1 visa requirements.
  • If you are denied an F-1 visa:
Students Who Applied for a Change of Status to F-1 Within The U.S.:
  • If your Change of Status is still pending:
    • Stay in touch with ISSS regularly.
    • Contact isss@uwm.edu to request a timely deferral of your I-20 program start date, if needed.
  • If your Change of Status to F-1 request is approved:
    • Upon approval of your change to F-1 status, check your ISSS Connect portal for the Arrival Check-In record under the Documents & Requests section.
      • Complete the Arrival Check-In record, if it is available to you.
      • Email isss@uwm.edu for your next steps if the Arrival Check-In record is not available to you.
    • Complete any additional orientation and arrival requirements.
    • ISSS will validate your F-1 status in SEVIS.
    • You must maintain your F-1 visa requirements.
  • If your Change of Status to F-1 request is denied: contact isss@uwm.edu.
ISSS Connect Portal Login

Immigration Information & Resources