F-1 Change of Status Denial

🚨 Important Update for Students Who Filed a Change of Status (COS) and Was Denied.

If you applied for a Change of Status and received a denial, please take a breath this part is important.

When a Change of Status is denied, the SEVIS system automatically terminates your I-20.
This means you will no longer have a Change of Status I-20 in the system.

This is expected behavior. Do not panic.

If you plan to file Form I-290B (Motion to Reopen or Reconsider), here’s what you need to understand:

Once the COS is denied, your school cannot keep a COS I-20 in initial change of status.

A reinstatement I-20 is typically issued instead.

While the appeal is pending, the SEVIS record will remain terminated this does not mean your case is over

If USCIS grants your I-290B:

Your reinstatement I-20 becomes active, and
Your DSO will issue an updated, active I-20 reflecting your reinstated Chang of Status.

Every case is different. Timing, filing strategy, and school coordination matter.

Do not assume termination means denial forever and do not take action without understanding the process.

If you’re unsure how this applies to your situation, get guidance before making your next move.