My dependent is going to pursue a full-time degree program, do they need to change their visa status?

Dependents in F-2 status are required to change status to F-1 (or J-1) student status in order to pursue a full-time degree program.

Dependents in J-2 status do have an option to pursue a full-time degree program in J-2 status or change status to J-1 or F-1, and there are pluses and minuses to each option.

Please note that applications for Change of Status within the U.S. are taking anywhere from 7-11 months, so in most cases it is advisible to plan to travel abroad and apply for a visa in the new status at U.S. Embassy/Consulate abroad and then re-enter in the new status to begin full-time study.

For dependents planning to need a Change of Status should schedule an appointment to meet with the ISO Advisor who is assigned to their MIT degree program.