Hi, I am currently a visiting scholar with J-1 visa but recently I am considering reading for a degree here in an American university. The problem is my current J-1 status will expire on May. 30, 2011 as indicated on my DS-2019 form. If I apply for the admission of 2011 Fall semester, hopefully I can get new I-20 in April or May 2011 then start to apply for change of status. So before the COS is approved by USCIS, my J1 status might have expired, and the new semester will start in August. I am wondering if this will be a problem. Do I have to go back to my home country and re-enter as F-1 student? Thanks a lot!

ps, I've applied for waiver for the 2-year Home Residency Requirement, hopefully it will get done in this Sept. or Oct., so that will not be a problem.