05/08/2026
Important update for F1 students.
As you may be aware, the Department of Homeland Security will be issuing a new rule that eliminates I-94 duration of status (D/S) for F and J visa holders. We are reaching out to provide a summary of how this new rule will affect your immigration status and the extension process moving forward.
Background: F and J visa holders have long been admitted to the U.S. for a period known as âduration of statusâ or âD/Sâ. When granted D/S, students and scholars are permitted to remain in the U.S. for the period of time it takes to complete their program of study or research, rather than a fixed duration of time. In addition, universities had the authority to extend the visa status of F and J students and scholars so long as they were making progress towards their degree or program of research. After completion of a program, F or J status could be further extended by receiving approval for post-completion Optional Practical Training/STEM OPT or Academic Training.
New rule: When the new rule is published, it will take effect in 60 days. If the rule is published as initially proposed, universities will no longer have the authority to extend the status of F and J visa holders and the institutionsâ ability to approve changes in educational objectives will be limited. Here is a summary of changes under the new rule:
Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Records will list specific entry and end dates that align with the academic program length or four years, whichever is shorter.
Students will be required to file a formal Extension of Stay (EOS) application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to extend their lawful stay in the U.S.
The F-1 grace period following the completion of an academic program or OPT will be shortened to 30 days. After completing an academic program, the grace period provides time for an F visa holder to lawfully remain in the U.S. as they prepare for departure, change academic level, transfer schools or apply for another change of immigration status or benefit. There is no change to the J-1 student or scholar grace period as it is already set at 30 days.
F-1 undergraduate students will not be allowed to change their âeducational objectiveâ or transfer their SEVIS record to another institution during their first year. Educational objective refers to a studentâs academic level, degree program and/or major.
F-1 graduate students will not be allowed to change their âeducational objectiveâ or transfer their SEVIS record to another institution at any point during their studies. Educational objective refers to a studentâs academic level, degree program and/or major.
F-1 students will not be allowed to pursue another academic program at the same or lower academic level. Students who previously completed an academic program in F-1 status in the U.S. will not be allowed to matriculate at the same or lower education level.
It is critical to note that the rule will not take effect immediately. The effective date will be 60 days after publication. Litigation and SEVIS software changes may also delay final implementation of the rule.
