To change your status to F-1, there are two ways to do it. One would be to obtain an I-20 from the school you will be attending, take it with you when you travel outside the United States, and use it to apply for an F-1 entry visa from a U.S. embassy or consulate.

It is possible to change your status without leaving the U.S. To do this you will need to submit an application (I-539) and supporting documents to the INS, requesting that they change your status. It is impossible to determine how long this process will take. The charge for the process is $120. Please note that if you entered the U.S. in B2 tourist status, there is the possibility that your request to change to F-1 may be denied if you applied for admission to the school less than 90 days after entering the U.S. The exception to this would be if your visa is marked as "prospective student". Note also that denial is certain if your I-94 expired prior to filing your change-of-status application.

To apply, you will need:

A completed INS form I-539, signed by you the student. This form can be had from the ISS office or can be downloaded from INS' website.

Your current, original I-94

.

An original I-20 from this school, signed by you the student.

A check or money order for $120 made payable to INS.

A copy of your evidence of financial support.

Once the materials are completed, they should be mailed to
INS
Vermont Service Center
75 Lower Welden Street
St. Albans, VT 05479