During L1 to F1 COS can I stay in US, please suggest.

Hi, I’m currently on L1B visa which will expire on 5 July 2013. I have applied for COS from L1B to F1 to do MBA from one of the college in US. My classes will begin from 24th August. My question is: Can I stay in US while my F1 application is in process and awaiting for decision. Thanks,Yash

General rule of thumb is that one is considered to be on old status until COS gets approved. This means you are considered to be on L-1 until F-1 COS gets approved. However, filing COS allows one to stay in US.

As this is contradictory, I am not sure what the correct answer is. May be check w/ an attorney or others.