✦ Regulatory Changes Effective Sept. 15, 2026
On July 17, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security published a final rule titled, Establishing a Fixed Time Period of Admission and an Extension of Stay Procedure for Nonimmigrant Academic Students, Exchange Visitors, and Representatives of Foreign Information, which replaces the “Duration of Status” policy for F-1 students and modifies other existing regulations.
The rule goes into effect on September 15, 2026. Students in the U.S. in F-1 status before Sept. 15 are provided with a transition period. OIS will continue to communicate with students in the coming weeks via digital messaging, information posted to the student portal, as well as information sessions regarding how these regulations may impact them.
SEVP has published a Quick Facts page as well as an FAQ page.