If you are in the U.S. as a dependent and your current visa status prohibits study, you must have a change of status approval before beginning study at UNO.
To apply for a change of visa status while in the U.S., the applicant must be admitted to a degree-seeking program at UNO.
How to apply for a change to F-1 status through UNO and USCIS
- After you are admitted to a degree-seeking program at UNO, schedule an appointment with International Advising to determine eligibility and assist with the application process.
- Gather the required documentation for UNO to issue Form I-20:
- UNO financial affidavit form completed by the student and sponsor.
- Supporting financial documentation showing funding for at least one academic year. Financial documentation must be recent and can be original or a photocopy.
- When you receive your Form I-20, pay the SEVIS fee. You will need to upload the receipt on the USCIS website.
- Upload the necessary documentation for Form I-539 with USCIS for your request to change status.
Please note approval is not guaranteed.
A letter from the applicant to USCIS explaining the reasons for the change is helpful but not required. If you would like to submit a letter, email International Advising and they can help advise you on content.
View current processing times for USCIS change of status applications.