I have just learned that my application for a 24-month STEM OPT extension was denied because I filed it after the expiration of my first year OPT, which was too late. …

… I would like to go back to school and apply for reinstatement of my F-1 status. I heard that the USCIS takes a long time to issue a decision on F-1 reinstatement applications. Would I be able to transfer to another program of study while my reinstatement application is still pending?

Answer

No, you would not be able to transfer to another program of study while your reinstatement application is pending. The regulation requires that, to be eligible for reinstatement, you show that you are “currently pursuing, or intending to pursue, a full course of study in the immediate future at the school which issued the Form I-20.” (26.Jan.2018)

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