Are you currently in the U.S. and looking to change your status to F-1 student? While a Change of Status (COS) from a B-1/B-2 or J-1 visa might seem like a straightforward way to transition without leaving the country, it carries significant limitations, especially concerning international travel.
This comprehensive guide delves into the specifics of the COS process, the “Domestic-Only” nature of F-1 status obtained this way, the strict rules regarding departure from the U.S., and important exceptions like Automatic Visa Revalidation (AVR).
1. What is Change of Status (COS)?
Change of Status (COS) is a legal process allowing an eligible non-immigrant to switch from one visa classification (e.g., J-1 to F-1, B-2 to F-1) to another while remaining physically present within the United States.
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Administered by: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
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Outcome: Upon approval, you receive an I-797 Approval Notice. This document grants you legal “Status” to stay in the U.S. in your new classification, but it does not provide a physical “Visa” sticker in your passport.
2. The “Domestic-Only” Nature of COS Approval
It’s a critical distinction: an F-1 status obtained via COS is NOT the same as having an F-1 visa stamp.
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SEVIS Status: Your SEVIS record will become “Active” on the effective date of your F-1 status.
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No Visa Stamp: Your passport will lack the actual F-1 visa foil required for entry.
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Limited Scope: An approved COS is exclusively valid for maintaining your legal status within the U.S. It does not confer any rights or documents for entering the U.S.
⚠️ The Travel Trap: What Happens if You Leave the U.S.?
If you obtain F-1 status through COS and subsequently depart the United States, your F-1 status is generally considered abandoned for re-entry purposes.
Why does the status become invalid upon departure?
A COS is a “benefit” granted based on your continuous presence in the U.S. Without a physical F-1 visa stamp in your passport, you lack the necessary travel document to be admitted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at a port of entry.
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The Risk: You cannot re-enter the U.S. using only your I-20 and the I-797 approval notice.
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The Legal Shift: The moment you physically exit the U.S., you are no longer considered to be in valid F-1 status for admission purposes.
3. How to Re-enter as a Student After Departing
If you are a COS student who has traveled abroad, you must generally “start over” with the Consular Processing method to return:
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New Initial I-20: Your Designated School Official (DSO) must issue a new “Initial Attendance” I-20. You cannot use the “Continued Attendance” I-20 from your COS period.
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Visa Interview: You must apply for an F-1 visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
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Initial Entry: You will then re-enter the U.S. as an “Initial Entry” student, which may require repaying the I-901 SEVIS Fee.
4. Exception: Automatic Visa Revalidation (AVR)
There is a specific, limited exception to the travel rule known as Automatic Visa Revalidation (AVR).
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Conditions: If you travel for less than 30 days only to Canada, Mexico, or adjacent islands (excluding Cuba), you might be able to re-enter the U.S. with your expired visa stamp (if any), your valid I-20, and your I-797 COS approval notice.
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Crucial Caveat: This is a complex rule with strict conditions. It does NOT apply if you apply for a new visa while abroad, or if you travel to other countries. Always consult your DSO before planning any international travel under AVR.
5. For DSOs: Proper SEVIS Record Management
For Designated School Officials (DSOs), correctly managing the SEVIS record of a COS student who departs the U.S. is crucial for maintaining record integrity.
| Action | Required Step |
| SEVIS Action | Terminate the Active Record |
| Termination Reason | Authorized Early Withdrawal or Change of Educational Plans |
| Important Note | Do not use Shorten Program. This reason indicates program completion, which is incorrect in this scenario. The student has changed their travel/educational intent, not completed their studies early. |
Summary: Is COS the Right Path for You?
A Change of Status is an excellent option for students who are certain they will remain in the U.S. for their entire program duration. If you have any plans to travel internationally, even for short trips, pursuing Consular Processing (obtaining a visa at an embassy) from the outset is generally a safer and more flexible approach.
Disclaimer:
This article provides general information and is not intended as legal advice. Immigration laws are complex and subject to change. For specific advice regarding your individual situation, please consult with a qualified immigration attorney or your Designated School Official (DSO).