The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a final rule that will fundamentally change how F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors are admitted to the United States. Effective September 15, 2026, the long-standing Duration of Status (D/S) policy will be replaced with fixed periods of admission.
For decades, most F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors were admitted for “Duration of Status,” meaning they could remain in the United States as long as they maintained their immigration status and complied with the terms of their academic or exchange program. Instead of receiving a specific expiration date on their Form I-94, their authorized stay was tied to maintaining status.
Beginning September 15, 2026, that will change. Under the new rule, individuals entering the United States in F-1 or J-1 status will generally receive a Form I-94 with a fixed “Admit Until Date” based on the end date of their approved program, rather than a D/S notation. If additional time is needed to complete a program or authorized activity, they will generally need to file an extension of stay with USCIS before their authorized stay expires.
The rule also shortens the post-completion grace period for F-1 students from 60 days to 30 days and places additional restrictions on certain academic changes, including transfers and changes in educational objectives. These changes are expected to increase compliance responsibilities for students, exchange visitors, educational institutions, and program sponsors.
Importantly, the new rule does not take effect until September 15, 2026. Individuals currently in the United States under the existing D/S framework may qualify for transition provisions, although how the rule applies depends on their individual circumstances. Anyone planning international travel, transferring schools, applying for OPT or STEM OPT, or extending their program should carefully review how these changes may affect their immigration status.
The elimination of D/S represents one of the most significant changes to student and exchange visitor immigration regulations in decades. As implementation approaches, it will be critical for F-1 and J-1 visa holders to monitor their Form I-94 expiration dates, comply with new filing requirements, and seek legal guidance before making decisions that could affect their status.
We’re Here to Help
At John Perry and Associates, P.C., we assist international students, exchange visitors, educational institutions, and employers with navigating complex U.S. immigration laws. If you have questions about how these new regulations may affect your status or future plans, our experienced immigration attorneys are available to help you understand your options and remain compliant with U.S. immigration law.
