F1 to H1, and back to F1

[placio]

I came to the US in 2006 on F1 visa. Completed Masters in 2008, was on OPT until Sept 2009. Got H1b from OCT 2009. Got change of status in May 2010 to F1 to do PHD. I have not traveled outside the country since 2006 but will be traveling now. My question is do i need F1 visa stamping again (I already have an f1 visa until July 2011)?

[gaur8]

Hi, Did u get an answer to this? I will be in a similar situation in the future. BTW, how did u change from H1 to F1? And how long did it take? Thanks.

[kabkaba]

Yes, you will need a new F1 visa even if your old Visa is valid. This is because you have spent more than 5 months outside F1 status and because your SEVIS ID has changed.