ISSS NEWS ANNOUNCEMENT FOR WEDNESDAY, JULY 29, 2026
Essential Reminders and Resources for Changes to F-1 and J-1 Regulations
On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a final
rule ending the long-standing 鈥淒uration of Status鈥 (D/S) policy for F-1 and J-1 nonimmigrants.
The rule is currently scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026.
The ISSS has created a web page with detailed information about the final rule and how it will impact 亚洲情色 University international students and scholars. The page also includes answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the final rule. We encourage all international students and scholars to review this page carefully so that you understand how this new rule will impact your status moving forward. ISSS will continue to update this page with new information as the Department of Homeland Security provides additional details and clarification.
Here are some key points you need to know:
- If you are traveling outside the U.S., the ISSS recommends that you return to the U.S. before September 15, 2026. International students and scholars who are in the U.S. with 鈥渄uration of status鈥 before that date will retain some limited benefits and flexibility after the new rule is effective. International students who re-enter the U.S. on or after September 15, 2026, will not have 鈥渄uration of status鈥 and will be limited to a 30-day grace period and other limitations under the new rule.
- If you will need additional time to complete your academic program, apply for an I-20 or DS-2019 extension before August 15, 2026. The new regulation will add extra steps and costs to the extension process, including the need to file an application for Extension of Stay with the U.S. government. If you will need additional time due to compelling academic or medical reasons, you can apply for a program extension now under the current regulations. Please note that all extension requests are carefully reviewed by ISSS on a case-by-case basis, and approval is not guaranteed. Review the ISSS Program Extension page for more details about this process, and submit a complete request to ISSS by August 15, 2026 to ensure that your request can be reviewed prior to the effective date of the new rule. J-1 scholars who are interested in an extension should consult with their academic department.
- If you are planning to change your academic major or level, contact your academic department or academic advisor and ISSS now, and ensure this process is completed before September 15, 2026. This new rule will place limitations on changing between majors and academic levels. International graduate students will not be able to change majors or change from a higher degree to a lower degree level (for example, changing from a PhD program to a Master鈥檚 degree) once the new rule is in effect.
- Check ALL of your immigration documents to ensure that they are accurate. Your I-94 record should show your current status (F-1 or J-1) and the Admit Until Date should say D/S. Your I-20 or DS-2019 should show accurate information about your current academic program. If you have dependents in F-2 or J-2 status, review their documents to make sure all information is current. Remember that all individuals in F or J status should carry a printed copy of the I-94 and I-20 or DS-2019 at all times.
- Check the expiration date on your passport. If your passport will expire soon, start the renewal process with your country鈥檚 embassy or consulate as soon as possible.
- If you are planning to graduate this year, be aware that there are special transition provisions in the regulation for OPT applicants. In order to be eligible for that transition process, you must be in the U.S. with an I-94 that shows duration of status. If you are planning to apply for OPT between September 15, 2026 and March 18, 2027, please speak with an ISSS advisor before finalizing any travel plans.
We encourage you to review the detailed information on the ISSS End of Duration of Status page for more information about how this change will impact you. If you have questions about your individual situation, please contact us. The ISSS office is here to support you through this process, and we are committed to providing accurate and timely information. We will continue to provide updates on our website and via the ISSS News listserv as additional information becomes available.