Can I convert my J1 status to F1 in the United States?

It is possible to apply for a change of status in the United States, but it will take a long time. First of all, if your J1 visa is subject to the 212E restriction of returning to the country for two years, you need to apply for an exemption from the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in the United States with the I20 form issued by the admitted university. This will take about 3 or 4 months. After getting the exemption , and then submit an application to change status to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services, which takes about 4 or 5 months. Overall, it takes a long time, and it is very likely that you will not be able to catch up with the start of school. It is recommended to leave the United States as much as possible and reapply for an F visa.