Students whose H-1B employment ends (e.g. layoff) sometimes change status to F-1 to remain in the US lawfully while pursuing further study — this requires filing Form I-539 while still in status or within the standard 60-day grace period.
An H-1B holder who loses their job (or whose H-1B otherwise ends) is generally given a grace period of up to 60 days to take a next lawful step — which can include changing status to F-1 to pursue further education rather than leaving the country immediately.
H-1B holders facing job loss or the end of their H-1B validity who want to continue building US-based education or credentials rather than depart immediately, and who have a genuine plan to study full-time.
You must apply to and be accepted by an SEVP-certified school, obtain an initial Form I-20, pay the SEVIS I-901 fee, and file Form I-539 with USCIS — generally while your H-1B status is still valid or within the 60-day grace period after employment ends.
Allows a lawful, in-country transition to student status without needing to leave the US and re-enter, and creates a path to re-enter the workforce later via OPT/STEM OPT or a future H-1B.
Academic terms don't always align with the 60-day grace period — if your job ends outside the normal Fall/Spring admission cycle, timing can be tight. You cannot work in H-1B-authorized employment once your change of status is filed and pending in most circumstances, and you generally cannot begin studying until the change of status is approved (check with your DSO on program start-date implications). Specific fees, processing times, and procedural details change over time — always confirm current requirements directly with USCIS, Study in the States, SEVP, or your school's international student office before acting.
Do not travel outside the US while your Form I-539 is pending — departure is generally treated as abandoning the application.
Form I-539 processing has historically taken several months; premium processing may be available for an additional fee. Specific fees, processing times, and procedural details change over time — always confirm current requirements directly with USCIS, Study in the States, SEVP, or your school's international student office before acting.
Form I-539, initial Form I-20 from the new school, evidence of your H-1B status and its end date, and proof of financial support for your studies.
This depends on your specific school's policy and USCIS guidance current at the time — confirm directly with your school's international student office before enrolling in classes while your I-539 is pending.
USCIS
Every student's circumstances are different. Talk to Na Visa for general guidance, and confirm anything status-specific with your DSO or an immigration professional.
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