COS from H-4 to F-1 visa
I want to change my status from H4 to F1 and assuming that it would take approx 3-4 months. If I apply for COS today, I make a trip to France (I am French citizen) next week, can I re-enter US on my valid H4 visa? Or do I have to wait until F1 is approved, get it stamped in Paris and then re-enter US?
You do NOT need USCIS approval to apply for F-1 visa. Just apply for F-1 visa during your visit to France. Ask the school to explain the formalities to you. By the way, if you leave USA during a COS request, the COS is deemed abandoned.
Mr. Khanna has sound judgement and deep knowlege about US Immigration laws. He gave me an honest and straightforward answer everytime I've had a complex situation in the past ten years on a range of issues from F1 to H1 to GC. The staff at Mr. Khanna's office is awesome too. They are very efficient and have good templates for most forms.