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How to Change Your Visa Status to F-1 in Irvine: AELS Can Help

How to Change Your Visa Status to F-1 in California: A Guide for Irvine Students

Already living in the U.S. on a tourist, work, or dependent visa? You may be able to change your immigration status to F-1 — without ever leaving the country. For students in Irvine, American English Language School (AELS) is a SEVP-approved English program that can issue your I-20 and support you through the process.

What Is a Change of Status to F-1?

A Change of Status (COS) allows eligible visa holders to switch to F-1 student status while remaining in the United States. Instead of leaving and applying for a new visa abroad, you file Form I-539 with USCIS — and if approved, you can begin studying legally in the U.S. on your new status.

Common eligible visa holders include: B-1/B-2 tourists, F-2 dependents, J-2 dependents, and certain work visa holders.

How AELS Irvine Supports Your F-1 Journey

AELS is authorized to enroll international students and issue the Form I-20, which is required to file your I-539 with USCIS. Here's what we provide:

  • Official I-20 issuance for eligible students
  • Guidance on enrollment and documentation requirements
  • Small-group ESL classes in Irvine focused on conversation and real-world English
  • A welcoming, multicultural learning environment

Our Irvine campus is conveniently located at 10 Corporate Park, Suite 100 — one of the safest and most international cities in California.

Important Things to Know

The COS process takes time. USCIS processing can take several months, so it's important to start early. You must also maintain valid status throughout the process — do not let your current visa expire before your I-539 is approved, and avoid traveling outside the U.S. while your application is pending.

AELS staff can help with I-20 paperwork and enrollment guidance, but for complex immigration questions, we always recommend consulting a qualified immigration attorney.

📍 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.

👉 Read the full guide here: How to Change Your Visa Status to F-1 in California: A Guide for Irvine Students

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Location: 10 Corporate Park suite 100, Irvine, CA 92606, USA

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