Entering before 30 days on F1 while having B2 visa

[nexus1]

Hi Members,

I am applying for a F-1 visa and the date on mentioned on I-20 is 25th AUG. I want to enter into USA on 7th JUL which wouldn't be possible considering the fact that with F-1 visa i am only entitled to enter post 25th JUL. But I also have a valid B2 visa, can i enter US with the B2 visa and latter change my status to F1. If yes, then what is the procedure and how should i go about doing that.

Information :

- B2 visa valid for 10 years.
- Applying for F-1 visa and have already received my I-20.


Thanks & Regards

[kabkaba]

In principle you can do that, but change of status from B2 is not encouraged by USCIS. Moreover, change of status will take 2 to 3 months and you will not be able to join school until it gets approved. The only option then will be to leave the US and again enter using F1 Visa.