At Gracademic. We specialize in guiding Latin American students through the process of studying in the U.S., ensuring a smooth and compliant transition, specifically about their change of status to F1 student visa and the role of a sponsor in this process.
2. Overview of the Change of Status to F1
In the U.S., individuals who are currently in a different visa status—such as a tourist visa (B1/B2)—can apply for a change of status to an F1 student visa if they meet the necessary requirements. Instead of leaving the country and applying for an F1 visa abroad, this process allows them to legally remain in the U.S. while transitioning to student status.
3. The Role of a Sponsor in the F1 Change of Status Process
A crucial part of this process is demonstrating financial ability to cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs associated with studying in the U.S. Since international students, require a sponsor—a person who agrees to financially support their studies and provides proof of sufficient funds.
The sponsor does not assume any legal liabilities but serves as a financial guarantor in the application process. Their role is to submit documentation proving their ability to support the student financially. A direct financial statement provided to the school issuing the *I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status).
4. Sponsor Requirements
For the F1 visa status change, the sponsor must meet certain financial criteria. This includes:
- Proof of income – Recent pay stubs, employer letter, or tax returns (if applicable).
- Bank statements – Showing sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses for at least one year.
- Relationship to the student – While it is common for sponsors to be parents or relatives, it is not a strict requirement. Sponsors can be family friends or other individuals willing to provide financial backing.
The total financial amount required varies depending on the institution and the estimated cost of living in the area, but typically, a student needs to demonstrate access to approximately $20,000 per year, depending on tuition and living expenses.
5. The Process Timeline
The process for changing status to F1 typically follows these steps:
- Student applies and is accepted to a U.S. institution that issues the I-20 form.
- Sponsor provides financial documentation to prove sufficient funds.
- Student files Form I-539 (Application to Change Nonimmigrant Status) with USCIS, including the I-20, proof of financial support, and other supporting documents.
- Processing time varies but can take about 6 months.
6. Why This Step is Important
Securing a sponsor and successfully completing the change of status process allows individuals seeking status as International Students to remain in the U.S. legally while pursuing their education. This avoids the need for them to leave the country and apply for an F1 visa abroad, which could introduce additional challenges and risks.
7. Next Steps & Support from Gracademic
At GRacademic, we guide students and sponsors through each step of this process, ensuring compliance with immigration regulations and helping gather the necessary documentation. If you have any concerns or need assistance in preparing financial documents, we can provide guidance to ensure everything is in order.
Would you be available to discuss any questions or concerns about this process? I’d be happy to provide further clarification and support as needed.
Contact us for more information!
