H4 to F1, how long do I have to stay on F1

[laz_boy]

Hi,

My wife applies for change on status from H4 to F1. We started this process right when she was about to start school. It usually takes 3-4 months to complete this application process, but now she is already completed her 6 courses (2 semesters) in school.

My question is, does she has to be on F1 for a specific amount of time before she can file her OPT/CPT or is it just that she should have a valid F1 visa when she does that.

Thanks

[rahul412]

My question is, does she has to be on F1 for a specific amount of time before she can file her OPT/CPT or is it just that she should have a valid F1 visa when she does that.

She has to be on F1 for one yr. But this rule differs from school to school.

[t75]

CPT is not generally an option. It must be part of the curriculum. I wish people would stop trying to use a student visa to work