In the US, change of shool HELP!

[jenizaro]

Hello,

I am a PhD student in the US who just finished the first semester of the program. I did not do very well and am having doubts about continuing in this program. I will apply to other programs but don't know if, once I get a new I-20, I should return to my country and apply for a new VISA in my country. Is it possible to do all the visa related paperwork in the US?

Thanks for your help.

[Tino]

You have a visa now, yes?

tino

[jenizaro]

Yes, I have now a F1 VISA and am in the US, but would like to go to another school. I realize now my current school may not be the best match for me.

[Tino]

You do not need to get a new visa. You only need a valid visa to ENTER the USA. Once you are in the USA you only need to meet the REQUIREMENTS of the visa.

The requirements of an F-1 visa are pretty simple:
1) Be enrolled in good standing in a school and program that is authorized for F-1 students
2) Be making progress in your studies

Or more simply:
1) Go to a school that issues I-20's
2) Pass your classes

However, do not just quit (drop out) of your school! Quitting means you are no longer a student, and are thus not meeting the requirements of your visa. You need to stay in school until you determine the new school you will TRANSFER to. Once you find your new school, apply to them. They will arrange the transfer from your old school to them (you will have to complete a transfer request that your new school should give you.)

So no, you do not need a new visa if you change schools.

And reminder to all students in these cases:
Do not just quit school! If you do, you are technically out-of-status and must return to your country immediately!
Instead, arrange transfer FIRST!

Tino