<p>IPBear, you confused me. Are there any special rules for students in the AOS process? Of course the OP doesn’t need a student visa if he (?) becomes a permanent resident. But if he didn’t get his permanent resident visa before college starts, wouldn’t he have to apply for a F-1 visa (considering that he’s on F-2 right now)? Not that it would matter… (hopefully!)</p>
<p>Anyway, I guess the bottom line is that you don’t qualify for financial aid at the UCs until you are permanent resident.</p>