American English Language School

Thinking about switching schools but worried about losing your F-1 status? Good news — transferring your F-1 visa to AELS Irvine is one of the simplest moves an international student can make, and you don't have to leave the country to do it. Why Students Choose AELS Irvine Students from community colleges, universities, and other language schools transfer to AELS Irvine every term. The reasons are consistent: smaller class sizes, a strong focus on real conversation, more flexible schedules, and a friendlier price point. Add in the central Orange County location — close to beaches, freeways, and great food — and Irvine becomes one of the easiest cities in California to call your new academic home. Our ESL classes in Irvine include full-time and part-time options for all levels, plus TOEFL prep and Conversation Bridge for students preparing for college or American workplace life. How the F-1 Transfer Works Most students are surprised at how simple it is. Your F-1 visa st...

Thinking About Changing Your Immigration Status in the USA? If you are in the United States on a visa and wondering whether to change your status, you are not alone. Many international students at AELS in Irvine face this question. Here is a quick breakdown of the pros and cons to help you make a more informed decision. Pros Stay in the USA without leaving to get a new visa Work legally with the right visa or Employment Authorization Document (EAD) Continue studying at an accredited school like AELS on an F-1 visa Potential path to a green card through employer or family sponsorship Cons Complex paperwork and strict USCIS deadlines Long processing times -- sometimes many months No guarantee of approval -- denials do happen Cost -- filing fees and attorney fees add up fast Risk of unlawful presence if your current visa expires before the new one is approved How AELS Irvine Can Help If changing to an F-1 student visa is part of your plan, enrolling at AELS c...

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 el...