Access the most recent immigration news, regulatory updates, and government policy changes in one place. We monitor developments closely to help you understand how new immigration regulations may affect your plans and obligations.
Duration of Status Regulation Changes
When an international student or exchange visitor arrives in the United States, they must be cleared for entry by a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry. The CBP officer issues documentation stating how long the student or exchange visitor may remain legally in the United States.
The final rule was published on July 17, 2026, and as of September 15, the exact date of expiration of status for Fs and Js must coincide with the program end date noted on their immigration form, not to exceed four years. This means students and exchange visitors who need more time to accomplish their purpose, whether that be completion of a degree program or other endeavors, must apply and pay for a formal extension of stay from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The end of D/S means students and exchange visitors will need to file for an extension with USCIS to:
Complete an undergraduate program that requires more time than four years;
Complete any program where a student falls a few credits short of graduation requirements;
Engage in post-completion practical training or academic training,
Move to a higher level of study;
There are now also significant restrictions on transfers and changes of educational objectives.
Graduate students cannot change their majors or educational levels at any point during their program of study.
Graduate students are only eligible to transfer schools if SEVP approves an exception on a case-by-case basis for "extenuating circumstances."
Undergraduate students cannot change majors or transfer schools during their first year of study unless approved for "extenuating circumstances."
Travel Reminders
We want to remind you of the heightened scrutiny by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at U.S. ports of entry. Recent reports indicate that the federal government is prioritizing stricter inspections for travelers entering the United States, including international students. If you are re-entering the U.S. after travel abroad, it is important to be prepared for possible delays and increased questioning upon arrival.
Carry physical copies of all your documents, which include:
I-20 / DS-2019
Financial documents (bank statements)
Passport (valid at least 6 months into the future)
Visa(valid at least 6 months into the future)
Class Schedule (returning students)
Admission Letter (new students)
Make sure you have a valid travel signature, travel signatures are valid 12 months for current students, 6 months for students on OPT.
Travel signatures are located on the I-20, bottom of the 2nd page.
Travel signatures are locate on the DS-2019, bottom right of the 1st page.