Nepalny, If you want to go to school, you can continue as an exchange student. You don't have to change your visa type to F1. But you have to be accepted under the university's J1 program. I would suggest you to go and see the ISO of the university you want to get admitted. They will guide you. Your two year home residensy obligation may be deferred once you are accepted. However, you will still be obliged to do it but later. Hope it helps Good luck