Can I File I-130 Alone?

[lesa]

Came on F 1. married to a usc 2 yrs need to adjust status eventually but can I start the process by filing the I-130 with the G-325 then later send the other more expensive ones like the I-485 or must they all go together ? Thanks.

[PraetorianXI]

you can file i-130 now, wait for the approval (4-8 months) and then send the I-485 and the rest of forms later (with the I-130 approval).

But, keep in mind that the I-130 filed alone does NOT give you any legal status. So you must maintain your F1 student status.