Published Changes
DHS has published a final rule changing Duration of Status, but the rule is not yet in effect.
DHS published the final rule on July 17, 2026. The rule is scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026, unless DHS publishes a notice changing the effective date or terminating the rule after congressional review. F-1 and J-1 students should continue following current ISSS guidance while ISSS reviews the final rule and prepares updated guidance for students, dependents, and campus partners.
On September 15, 2026 the rule will:
- Replace D/S with a specific Admit Until Date (AUD) on the Form I-94 for F-1 and J-1 nonimmigrants.
- Admission to the U.S. will generally be limited to the program end date on the I-20 or DS-2019, up to a maximum of four years.
- Students & scholars who need more time to complete their program will need to apply to USCIS for an Extension of Stay or travel outside the U.S. to request readmission at a U.S. Port of Entry.
- The standard F-1 grace period will be reduced from 60 days to 30 days.
- New restrictions for undergraduate and graduate students will apply to school transfers and changes to academic programs or educational objectives.
- F-1 students who complete an academic program after the rule is finalized, will generally not be allowed to begin another F-1 program at the same or a lower educational level.
- F and J students and scholars already present in the United States on September 15, 2026, may still see D/S listed on their I-94. However, their AUD will be considered the end date on their I-20 or DS-2019 (plus a grace period) OR a date four years from September 15, 2026, whichever is sooner.