Yes — in many cases, you can. If you are currently in the United States on a B-1/B-2 tourist visa, a dependent (F-2 or J-2) visa, or even certain work visas, you may be eligible to change your immigration status to F-1 student status directly from within the U.S. This process is called a Change of Status (COS), and it allows you to begin studying at a SEVP-approved school without needing to return to your home country first.
At American English Language School (AELS) in Irvine, we help international students navigate this process every day. This guide will walk you through exactly what you need to know.
F-1 is the most common visa status for international students studying in the United States. It allows you to:
To receive F-1 status, you must be enrolled at a school that is approved by the U.S. government's Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). AELS is a fully SEVP-approved institution, which means we can issue the official Form I-20 you need to apply for F-1 status.
You may be able to apply for a Change of Status to F-1 if you:
Common visa types that can change to F-1 include B-1/B-2 (tourist/business), F-2 (F-1 dependent), J-2 (J-1 dependent), H-4, and others. Note that some visa categories, such as the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA), are not eligible for Change of Status — so it is important to verify your specific situation.
The first step is to enroll in a SEVP-approved ESL or academic program. At AELS Irvine, we offer flexible English language programs designed for adult international learners — including general ESL, conversation, TOEFL preparation, and academic English. Our programs are recognized by USCIS and we can issue your I-20 once you are accepted.
Once you are accepted to AELS and pay the required SEVIS fee, we will issue your Form I-20 — the official Certificate of Eligibility for F-1 status. This document is essential for your Change of Status application.
Before filing your Change of Status application, you must pay the SEVIS I-901 fee (currently $350 for F-1 students) at FMJfee.com. Keep the payment receipt — you will need it.
The Change of Status application is submitted using Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status). You will file this with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) along with:
Processing times vary, but USCIS typically takes 3 to 6 months to process Form I-539. During this time, you are generally permitted to remain in the U.S. and may even begin your studies at AELS, depending on your situation.
Once approved, you will receive an official notice confirming your new F-1 status. You can then continue your studies, travel outside the U.S. (with your new F-1 visa), and enjoy all the benefits of lawful student status.
AELS has been helping international students in Southern California for over 20 years. Our Irvine campus offers:
Changing your visa status is a big step — but you do not have to figure it out alone. The team at AELS Irvine is here to help you through every stage of the process, from enrolling in the right English program to issuing your I-20 and answering your questions.
Contact us today to learn more about our ESL programs and how AELS can support your F-1 journey. We look forward to welcoming you to our Irvine campus!
Learn more about our ESL programs at www.aels.edu or visit our AELS Irvine location on Google Maps to experience small-group English classes focused on conversation, confidence, and real-life communication.
Published on March 11, 2026
American English Language School (AELS) is a CEA-accredited and SEVP-approved English language school authorized to issue I-20 forms for international students. Located in Los Angeles, Orange County (Fullerton), and Irvine, California, AELS offers small classes, conversation-focused lessons, and proven results through individualized learning experiences. If you’re serious about improving your English, join AELS today!