Changing Visa from B1 to F1

[csk.sakthi]

Hello,
I had a B1/B2 visa and visited US once. I'm currently working at Chennai. Having more than 10 years of experience I planning to do my MS in US.

Here I have the following doubts;
1. If I apply for F1 visa, still my B1/B2 valid or it will be cancelled.
2. Will my B1/B2 visa helps me to get F1 visa or similarly like other students, I may get rejection.

Please advise.

[daggit]

1. If I apply for F1 visa, still my B1/B2 valid or it will be cancelled.

B1\B2 will stay valid. But in the off chance they discover any misrepresentation, B2 risks being cancelled.

2. Will my B1/B2 visa helps me to get F1 visa or similarly like other students, I may get rejection.

No, your B visa has nothing to do with F1; totally different eligibility criteria. 50-50 chance, just like everyone else.

[lianajett]

Your B1 visa will be valid upto validity date mentioned, however it doesn't help in getting F1. US will provide only 1 visa for a candidate per time, suppose if you are going on F1 visa, you will not be allowed to enter with B1 visa.

[Jo Sood]

Hello,
I had a B1/B2 visa and visited US once. I'm currently working at Chennai. Having more than 10 years of experience I planning to do my MS in US.

Here I have the following doubts;
1. If I apply for F1 visa, still my B1/B2 valid or it will be cancelled.
2. Will my B1/B2 visa helps me to get F1 visa or similarly like other students, I may get rejection.

Please advise.

Your B1 visa will not be cancelled assuming it is still valid.

Officially the B1 visa is not supposed to influence your F1 application. However a good history (no overstays, misuse, etc.) on your record is likely to help build a favourable perception. Both are non-immigrant visas after all so your satisfactory conduct as B1 will prove a history of bonafide non-immigrant intent.

[student18]

DS160 for F1 help!

Hi, I am an Indian citizen, currently working in Singapore on an Employment pass. I have been issued a B1/B2 Business Visa to USA 3 years ago in Singapore. I am now applying for a student visa. While filling the DS-160, I filled in my previous visa details. How do I answer the question - "Are you applying in the same country or location where the visa above was issued, and is this country or location your place of principal of residence?"

I am confused because I have filled out my "home address" as my address in India, but I presently (and for the last 7 years - 4 years study and 3 years work) live in Singapore (rent a house and pay taxes in Singapore)

Will greatly appreciate your help!