Is changing to Student visa within the US prevents me from traveling during my studying period?

[eve222]

I would like to change my B1 visa to a student visa without leaving the USA, but was told that if I do it from within the USA then during my 4 years of undergrad I wont be able to travel out of the USA. is that true?

Thanks

[pontevecchio]

It would be very unlikely for your COS to go through unless you mentioned potential student when coming here. If you do manage to do this you will need a F1 visa for travel. Talk to your College. It is much better to come back with the F1 visa at the appropriate time assuming you get admitted which also takes a lot of time.

[JoeF]

First off, you can't just "change to a student visa." You would have to apply at a university, and get accepted. That process takes several months at decent universities.

Second, you can travel abroad, but you of course would have to get an F1 visa at a US consulate to be able to enter the US to continue the studies.

[chinx]

My understanding is that, if B1 to F1 COS is granted, you are free to leave the country any time, but before you enter, you would need to have an appoint at US embassy and get F1 visa stamped to your passport. 

Having said that, please check with official sources.