Great question! Changing your education level (for example, from a bachelor's to a master's program) while studying in the USA is possible, but there are important rules and procedures to follow, especially regarding your student visa (F-1) status. Here’s a clear overview:

1. Admission to the New Program

- You must apply and be accepted to the new program (e.g., master’s) at a SEVP-certified (Student and Exchange Visitor Program) institution.
- The new program can be at the same university or a different one.

2. Issuance of a New I-20

- Once admitted, the new school or department will issue you a new Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) for the master’s program.
- You must inform your current Designated School Official (DSO) about your intent to change your education level.

3. SEVIS Record Update

- Your DSO will update your SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) record to reflect the change in education level.
- If you are staying at the same school, your SEVIS record is “continued” with updated details.
- If you are transferring to a new school, you must follow the transfer process, which includes getting a new I-20 from the new school.

4. Maintaining F-1 Status

- You must maintain your F-1 status throughout the process (i.e., remain enrolled full-time and comply with all visa regulations).
- There should be no gaps between programs longer than 5 months, or you risk losing your F-1 status.

5. Visa Considerations

- If your current F-1 visa is valid and you remain in the U.S., you do not need to apply for a new visa, but you must have a new I-20.
- If you travel outside the U.S., you’ll need to show your updated I-20 at the port of entry, and if your F-1 visa has expired, you’ll need to apply for a new visa.

6. CPT/OPT Eligibility

- Changing your education level may affect your eligibility for CPT (Curricular Practical Training) or OPT (Optional Practical Training). For example, to be eligible for OPT at the master’s level, you must complete one academic year in the new program.
- OPT authorization from your bachelor’s program does not carry over to your master’s program.

---

In summary:
- You can change from a bachelor’s to a master’s program in the USA with proper admission, a new I-20, and SEVIS record update.
- Always keep your DSO informed and maintain full-time enrollment to protect your F-1 status.

---

Need assistance with applications, program selection, or navigating the visa process?
Pollster Education can guide you through every step — from shortlisting universities to handling visa paperwork!
Feel free to reach out at info@pollstereducation.com or +919324480791, or visit our office in Grant Road (E), Mumbai.