When can I change from a F1 to a B1 visa?

Question

I am a student in the US currently finishing summer soon. I have 2 more years on my visa but I have to go back home now cuz i run out of funds, i want to be able to come back and visit though, when i can, How would I be able to get a visitors visa before i go home? I want to change from a F1 to a visitor

Answer 1

To change your status you need to file Form I-539 the cost is $300.

However once you leave the U.S, you will need to apply for a B2 visa at the U.S. Embassy in your country of residence before you are permitted re-entry.

Answer 2

Well, you can change status for some brief period by following CPG's suggestion and stay temporarily in B status, but you  can't get a visa inside the US, USCIS doesn't do visas. Those are only available outside of the US through one of our embassies or consulates. So, if you want to come back as a tourist you'll have to apply back home. By the way, B1 is for business, if you want to be a visitor as a tourist, you want a B2 or a combo B1/B2 which covers both business and pleasure.