Can I enter on the VWP while my F1 visa is pending?

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The fact that you're transferring your F-1 record changes things.

You should check with your new school's Designated School Official about this before you travel. Since you are transferring your F-1 record, you may not be subject to the rule about entering as F-1 only within 30 days of the start date. (Does your new I-20 specify an earliest entry date?) So if you modify your plan a bit, you may be able to enter as F-1 as soon as you get the visa. Then be sure to follow your new school's procedure to get registered in SEVIS.

Opinions vary on whether you can enter on VWP without breaking the continuity of F-1 status implied in transferring your record. As various visa officers and border officers may have differing opinions about this, the safest approach is to avoid doing it.

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