If you have an approved I-140 and a pending I-485, you are considered an Adjustment of Status (AOS) applicant and are allowed to remain in the U.S. without maintaining F-1 status.
Best Practice Recommendation:
BDV Solutions recommends waiting to drop F-1 status until you receive your green card–based EAD and have confirmation of your official job start date from your Client Services Specialist. This helps avoid unexpected gaps in work authorization or delays with onboarding.
If you need to drop F-1 earlier:
You may contact your DSO and drop F-1 status any time after your I-140 is approved and your I-485 is receipted, even if your job start date has not yet been finalized. You can simply inform your DSO that you are now an AOS applicant and plan to work full-time.
Please consult your attorney if you have any legal questions about timing or risks related to dropping F-1 status.
Can I Re-Apply for F-1 Status While My Green Card Is Pending?
No. You should not attempt to reapply for F-1 or switch back to student status while your green card application is pending, as this can create complications or negatively affect your case.
If you wish to resume school in the future, you can do so after completing your 12+ month employment commitment as a green card holder.
Always speak with your attorney before making decisions that could impact your immigration status.
Can I Continue Studying While Working for My Sponsor?
BDV Solutions strongly discourages maintaining an F-1 or any structured educational program while working for your sponsor. Employment under this program must be your full priority, and most in-person or scheduled programs will interfere with your job requirements.
If you consistently request schedule accommodations or have limited availability because of school, your employer may terminate your employment, putting your immigration process at risk.
Limited Exception:
Some clients have managed to study while working only if the program is:
100% online, and
Fully flexible with no fixed class times or mandatory in-person requirements, and
Able to be completed entirely around your full-time work schedule
If your program does not meet these criteria, you should plan to pause your studies until you complete your required work commitment.
Remember:
Your educational goals can always be resumed later. Your sponsorship and green card process, however, is a one-time opportunity that must be your top priority.