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NEXT STEPS
After sending the complete I-539 package to USCIS, please monitor the status of your application closely. This page explains what to look for.
After you file the I-539 application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, there are a few things to watch closely. This is a process where small details matter a lot.
What to look for:
Please send a copy of these to the school so we can continue to provide support.
You may also monitor the status of your application at egov.uscis.gov/casestatus
Within 2-4 weeks after filing, you should receive a Receipt Notice (Form I-797C).
This confirms that USCIS received your application, and it includes a Receipt Number, which usually starts with 3 letters (example: ABC9876543210).
When you receive this Notice, please send a copy to studyusa@uceda.edu.
USCIS may send a notice regarding fingerprints/photos at an Application Support Center (ASC). Not all I-539 applicants receive this request, but if you do, then you must attend exactly as scheduled. Missing your appointment can delay or deny your case.
If required, below is an example of the Biometrics Appointment which you may receive.
This is the most critical stage to watch for. If you receive a Request for Evidence (RFE), then you must respond completely and quickly.
Common RFE reasons for F-1 change of status:
Please send a copy of this to the school so we can provide support. UCEDA can review and provide guidance at no charge if we receive a copy of the RFE at least two weeks before the response deadline. Any RFE deadline within 14 days will incur a $100 RUSH fee for expedited service.
*Notice: UCEDA representatives are not immigration attorneys. We will also advise you to consult an immigration attorney.
Below is an example of a Request for Evidence related to a change of status application from B-2 to F1.
Your official Change of Status approval will arrive on Form I-797A: Notice of Action.
Once your case is approved, you must start classes in the next available session. New sessions begin at UCEDA on the first Monday of every month.
Below is an example of a Change of Status approval notice.
USCIS updates case processing times on their website monthly. To know how long it generally takes to process benefit requests, please check case processing times at egov.uscis.gov/processing-times.
Maintain your Eligibility
- You must maintain your current status while you await a decision from USCIS about your change of status.
- You or your sponsor must maintain funds in the account that will be used to support your period of study.
Traveling?
- You must stay in the U.S. during processing. Exiting the U.S. cancels the application.
- You may travel within the U.S. while your Change of Status application is processing. However, you will be required to start classes immediately once your case is approved.
