Change UK visa application from VAF1E to VAF1A?

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My friend (a non US citizen, but live in the US) need to get a visa to enter UK for a 3 day conference in his research field. He chose VAF1E (Academic Visitor) when did the online application http://www.visa4uk.fco.gov.uk/ . However, it seems that he should apply for apply for VAF1A (General Visitor) instead. Is it correct? It seems that there is not a way to change the type of visa once the application is submitted.

Does anybody know a way way to change the visa type from VAF1E to VAF1A? Is it OK to manually change the VAF1E form (online generated form) to VAF1A and send the manually corrected form along with my other materials to British Consulate General New York?

Or it is better to attached a filled VAF1A form ( http://www.ukvisas.gov.uk/resources/en/ ... 3073/VAF1A ) and mail it along with other application material and a letter explaining the situation to British Consulate General New York?

Could anybody help on this issues? Thanks!