FAQ - DHS D/S Final Ruling

• Common Scenarios
• Interpreting the Ruling
• Transition Guidance for Current Students and Scholars
• International Travel and U.S. Reentry
• Form I-94 and Your Admission End Date
• Extending Your Stay
• Employment Authorization and Practical Training
• Information for Students
• Transfers and Educational Plans
• Information for J-1 Exchange Visitors
• Information for F-2 and J-2 Dependents

Common Scenarios

These examples show how the new rule may work for many people. Everyone's situation is different, so be sure to read the rest of the page for more details.

• I am in a one-year master's program

  Many students in one-year master's programs finish school before their I-94 expires. But if you want to do OPT, start another degree right away, or need more time to finish school, you may need permission to stay longer.

• I am already in my 5th or 6th year of a Ph.D. program

  If you came to the United States before September 15, 2026, and were admitted under the old rules, you do not have to leave just because you have been in school for more than four years. Most Ph.D. students already in the U.S. can keep following the old rules until the end of their program or work authorization, as long as they meet the requirements.

• I am starting a new Ph.D. program after September 15, 2026

  If you enter the United States after September 15, 2026, you will usually get a specific end date on your I-94. If your Ph.D. program lasts longer than that time, you may need permission to stay longer by applying for an Extension of Stay.

• I am a J-1 scholar and my appointment was extended.

  If your department gives you more time and you receive an updated DS-2019, check the end date on your I-94. If your I-94 will expire before your new appointment ends, you may need permission to stay longer through travel and reentry, or an Extension of Stay.

• I am doing OPT or STEM OPT.

  The new rule does not take away OPT or STEM OPT. You can still participate in these programs. However, because OPT often lasts longer than a student's first period of admission, many students may need permission to stay longer. Whether you need an Extension of Stay depends on things like: When you entered the United States, Whether special transition rules apply to you, Whether you travel outside the country, and When your current I-94 expires.

Interpreting the Ruling

• What is changing?

  Starting on September 15, 2026, most students and exchange visitors coming to the United States will get an I-94 form with a specific end date. This date tells you how long you can stay in the United States. When that date gets close, and you need more time, you will usually need to: Leave the U.S. and come back with the right documents, or Ask the government for an Extension of Stay.

  • Why did DHS change the rule?

    DHS said the new rule helps the government check more often that people still qualify for their student or exchange visitor status.

  • Does this mean I can only stay in the United States for four years?

    No. The rule changes how you get more time, not whether you can get more time. Many people think the rule creates a four-year limit, but that is not true. The four years is usually just one period of permission to stay. You may stay longer than four years if: 1) You still qualify for your status, and 2) You get permission to stay longer when needed. This is important for: Ph.D. students, Medical residents, Researchers, Students on OPT or STEM OPT J-1 visitors on Academic Training.

  • Who does this rule apply to?

    The rule applies to: F-1 students F-2 family members J-1 exchange visitors J-2 family members. How the rule affects you depends on when you entered the United States. If you enter on or after September 15, 2026: You will get an I-94 with an end date. If you were already in the United States before September 15, 2026, special transition rules may protect you. For many people, nothing changes right away.

  • Does the rule change my visa, I-20, DS-2019, or immigration status?

    No. You still keep your: F-1, F-2, J-1, or J-2 status Visa I-20 DS-2019. You must still follow all the same rules regarding going to school, working legally, reporting changes updating your address, etc. The biggest change is that your I-94 now becomes more important because it shows how long you may stay in the United States. Your: I-20 or DS-2019 shows your program dates. I-94 shows how long you can stay in the country. Sometimes your I-94 may end before your I-20 or DS-2019, so you should check all of your documents carefully.

  • What are the most important things to remember?

    Here is a list of things for you to know:

    • The rule changes how long you are allowed to stay in the United States, not the rules for being an F-1 or J-1 student or visitor.
    • Your I-94 is now one of your most important documents.
    • If you were already in the United States before September 15, 2026, you may be protected by special transition rules.
    • Traveling outside the United States and coming back after September 15, 2026, will usually place you under the new rule. If you need more time in the United States, you may need to: Travel and return, or Apply for an Extension of Stay.
    • Plan ahead. Check your I-94 often and ask your Office of International Affairs (OIA) advisor for help before your stay expires.

     

  Transition Guidance for Current Students and Scholars

  • I am already in the United States on September 15, 2026. Does anything change that day?

    For most people, no. If you came to the United States before September 15, 2026, and your I-94 says D/S, you can usually keep following the old rules. You do not need to leave the United States to get a new I-94 or apply for an Extension of Stay right away. For many students and scholars, everyday life stays the same. You can keep going to school doing research, teaching and working (if you are allowed to work)

    • When do the transition rules end?

      The transition rules end when you move to the new rule. This can happen if you: Leave the United States and come back Get an approved Extension of Stay Change to a different immigration status Have another immigration event listed in the rule Until one of these things happens, most people can keep using their current D/S admission.

    • What if I never travel outside the United States?

      Many students and scholars may stay under the transition rules for several years. But the transition rules do not last forever. The transition end of the transition period for Current F-1s who entered their program before September 15, 2026 is the I-20 program end date, capped at November 14, 2030.The transition end of the transition period for Current J-1s who entered their program before September 15, 2026 is the DS 2019 program end date, capped at November 14, 2030. The transition end of the transition period for Current F-1s on post completion OPT before September 15, 2026 is their EAD expiration date, capped at November 14, 2030.The transition end of the transition period for Current F-1s on STEM OPT before September 15, 2026 is their EAD expiration date, capped at November 14, 2030.

    • I will graduate after September 15, 2026. How does this affect me?

      It depends on your situation. Many students who stay in the United States and do not travel may continue under the transition rules. If you plan to apply for OPT or STEM OPT, pay close attention to these rules. If you: Entered the U.S. before September 15, 2026, and Apply for OPT or STEM OPT on time before March 18, 2027, you usually do not need a separate Extension of Stay just because you applied. What matters is the day USCIS receives your application. However, if you: Travel outside the U.S. after September 15, 2026, Return under the new rule, and Then apply for OPT, you will usually need: Form I-765 (work permission) Form I-539 (Extension of Stay) Before making travel plans during your final year, talk with your OIA advisor for assistance.

    • I am already in the fifth, sixth, or later year of my Ph.D. Do I need to leave or apply for an Extension of Stay right away?

      No. Being in a Ph.D. program for more than four years does not mean you must leave the United States. If you entered before September 15, 2026, under D/S, you can usually continue your studies. Your current permission generally lasts until the end date on your I-20 and work authorization (if you have one). Many Ph.D. students can continue studying for several more years without doing anything right away. If you later need more time, you may need to file an extension of stay application

    • My visa has expired, but I still have valid F-1 or J-1 status. Can I stay in the United States?

      Yes. An expired visa does not automatically mean you must leave. Your visa is mainly used to enter the United States. After you are already here, what matters is your immigration status. If you are following all the rules, you may stay even if your visa has expired. But if you leave the United States and want to come back, you will need a valid unexpired visa.

    • Should I avoid traveling outside the United States to keep my transition protections?

      Not usually. You do not need to stop traveling just because of the new rule. Travel is still important for school research, work, and family visits. However, before traveling, make sure you understand how the trip may affect your immigration status. Think about whether your visa and passport are still valid, any immigration applications you have submitted, school or research commitments, family needs and whether travel or an Extension of Stay is a better option. If you are unsure, talk with your Office of International Affairs (OIA) advisor before making travel plans.

    • What should I do now?

      For many students and scholars, nothing needs to happen right away. Instead, you should:

      ✅ Learn whether the transition rules apply to you

      ✅ Keep copies of your immigration documents

      ✅ Check your I-94 after every international trip

      ✅ Plan ahead before your program or appointment ends

      Talk with your Office of International Affairs (OIA) advisor before making big decisions regarding travel, program extensions, and OPT academic training changes.

    International Travel and U.S. Reentry

    • What happens if I travel outside the United States after September 15, 2026?

      If you leave the United States and come back after September 15, 2026, you will usually follow the new rules. Instead of getting "D/S" on your I-94, you will get an Admit Until Date (AUD). This date tells you how long you can stay in the United States. Your stay will usually end on 1)The end date on your I-20 or DS-2019, OR Four years after you return to the United States, whichever comes first.

      • If your program ends before four years, your I-94 will usually match your program end date.
      • If your program lasts longer than four years, your first stay will usually be limited to four years.

         

      • Will traveling end my special transition protection?

        Yes. If you came to the United States before September 15, 2026, under the old D/S rule, traveling outside the country and returning will usually move you to the new rule. After you return, you will have an Admit Until Date on your I-94. If you need more time after that date, you will need to take steps to get permission to stay longer. For many students and scholars, traveling will be the first thing that moves them from the old rules to the new rules.

      • How long can I stay after I return?

        It depends on your situation. Usually, you can stay until the end date on your I-20 or DS-2019, or four years after you enter the United States, plus a 30-day grace period. Let's take a look at a couple of examples to help you understand it better.

        • Example 1: Ph.D. Student A Ph.D. student has a six-year program - Because the program is longer than four years, the student will usually receive four years of admission, plus 30 extra days.
        • Example 2: J-1 Research Scholar - A research scholar has a DS-2019 that ends in 18 months. The scholar's I-94 will usually end at the same time as the DS-2019, plus 30 extra days.
      • What if my passport expires before my program ends?

        Your passport should stay valid while you are studying or doing your exchange program. If your passport expires too soon, you may get a shorter stay in the United States and renew your passport before traveling. To avoid problems, renew your passport well before it expires.

      • Should I travel or apply for an Extension of Stay?

        There is no one answer for everyone. For some people, traveling and returning is the easiest choice. For others, applying for an Extension of Stay may be better. Things to think about include:

        • Are you already planning to travel?
        • Do you have a valid visa?
        • How long does it take to get a visa appointment?
        • Do you have an immigration application waiting for approval?
        • How much will it cost?
        • Do you have school, research, or work responsibilities?
        • Do you have family considerations?
        • How much extra time do you need?

        Because every person is different, it's always a good idea to talk with your Office of International Affairs (OIA) advisor before making a decision.

      • What should I do after I return to the United States?

        After every trip, check your new I-94 as soon as possible. Make sure:

        ✅ Your status is correct (F-1, F-2, J-1, or J-2)

        ✅ Your Admit Until Date looks correct

        ✅ Your name is spelled correctly

        ✅ Your passport information is correct

        ✅ There are no mistakes

        If something looks wrong, contact your Office of International Affairs (OIA) advisor for help right away. It is usually easier to fix mistakes soon after entering the country.

      • Should I stop traveling because of the new rule?

        No. The new rule does not stop you from traveling. You can still travel. However, it is important to understand how the new rules may affect your future plans. This is especially important if you are in a long Ph.D. program, have a long research project or plan to use OPT, STEM OPT, or other work authorization. The best plan is not to avoid travel. Instead, learn how the new rules work. Ask your Office of International Affairs (OIA) advisor for help if you have questions.

      Form I-94 and Your Admission End Date

      • What is Form I-94, and why is it important?

        Form I-94 is a document that shows important information about your visit to the United States. It tells:

        • What type of status you have (F-1, F-2, J-1, or J-2)
        • When you entered the United States
        • Where you entered the United States
        • How long you are allowed to stay

          Before September 15, 2026, many students and scholars saw "D/S" on their I-94. This meant they could stay as long as they followed their immigration rules. Starting on September 15, 2026, most people will get an Admit Until Date (AUD) on their I-94. This date tells you the last day you can stay in the United States. Because of this change, your I-94 becomes one of your most important documents.

        • How is the I-94 different from my visa and my I-20 or DS-2019?

          Each document has a different job.

          • Visa - Your visa helps you travel to the United States and ask to enter the country. A visa does not decide how long you can stay after you arrive.
          • I-20 or DS-2019 - Your I-20 or DS-2019 document is given by your school or program. It shows that you qualify for F-1 or J-1 status, how long your school program or activity is expected to last
          • I-94 - Your I-94 is given to you when you enter the United States. It shows how long you are allowed to stay.
        • What is the Admit Until Date (AUD)?

          The Admit Until Date, or AUD, is the date on your I-94 that tells you the last day you can stay in the United States. For most students and scholars: If your program is less than four years, your AUD will usually match your program end date plus 30 extra days. If your program is longer than four years, your AUD will usually be four years from the day you entered the United States plus 30 extra days. Before your AUD ends, you must leave the United States, or get permission to stay longer, or move to another approved immigration status

        • What if my I-94 expires before my I-20 or DS-2019?

          This is one of the biggest changes in the new rule. Before, students could often stay as long as their status stayed valid. Now, your I-94 may end before your I-20 or DS-2019 ends. For example A Ph.D. student has an I-20 for six years. The student may receive an I-94 that lasts only four years plus a grace period. Even though the I-20 is still valid, the student may need permission to stay longer before the I-94 expires. The same can happen to scholars whose programs are extended. An updated I-20 or DS-2019 does not automatically give you more time to stay. If you need extra time, you must get permission before your AUD ends.

        • What should I do after every international trip?

          After every trip outside the United States, check your new I-94 as soon as possible. Make sure:

          ✅ Your name is correct

          ✅ Your status is correct

          ✅ Your passport information is correct

          ✅ Your Admit Until Date looks right

          ✅ There are no mistakes

          Checking early helps fix problems more easily. It is also a good idea to save a copy of every I-94 for your records.

        • What if my I-94 has a mistake?

          Sometimes mistakes happen. For example: Your status may be wrong. Your Admit Until Date may be wrong. Your personal information may be incorrect. If you see a mistake, contact Office of International Affairs (OIA) advisor right away. Do not wait. Problems are usually easier to fix when they are found quickly.

        • Will UTSW OIA remind me when my I-94 is about to expire?

          The Office of International Affairs (OIA) may send reminders when possible, but you are responsible for keeping track of your own dates. Under the new rule, it is important to:

          ✅ Know your Admit Until Date

          ✅ Check it from time to time

          ✅ Plan ahead if you need more time

          ✅ Ask OIA for help early if you have questions

          Getting into the habit of checking your I-94 regularly will help you keep your F-1 or J-1 status and avoid problems.

        Extending Your Stay

        • What is an Extension of Stay (EOS)?

          An Extension of Stay (EOS) is a way to ask the U.S. government for more time to stay in the United States without leaving the country. Most students and scholars do this by sending an application to USCIS. If USCIS says yes, you will get a new I-94 with a new end date. This means you can stay longer. Before asking for an EOS, you may also need an updated I-20 or DS-2019 from your school or program.

          • Who Needs an Extension of Stay (EOS)?

            Not everyone will need an extension of stay. Many F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors will complete their program or training before their I-94 admission period expires. You may need to apply for an extension of stay if your authorized program or training will continue beyond your I-94 expiration date. Examples include:

            • Your academic program takes longer than originally anticipated.
            • Your research or training program is extended.
            • You need additional time to complete your degree requirements.
            • Your Ph.D. program extends beyond your current I-94 expiration date.
            • Your approved OPT, STEM OPT, or Academic Training period extends beyond your current I-94 expiration date.
            • Your authorized F-1 or J-1 program or training will continue after your current admission period expires.

              In some situations, an individual may choose to travel outside the United States and seek readmission rather than file an extension of stay with USCIS. Upon reentry, CBP may issue a new I-94 admission period consistent with the remaining authorized program or training. However, this option is not appropriate in every case, and visa holders should consult the Office of International Affairs before making travel plans.

          • When should I apply?

            Do not wait until the last minute. Apply at least 180 days in advance of your I-94 expiring. USCIS must receive your application. Starting early helps prevent problems like: Missing paperwork Delays Running out of time Talk to your Office of International Affairs (OIA) advisor as early as possible if you think you may need more time.

          • What happens after I apply?

            Can I stay in the United States while my application is being reviewed? Usually, yes. If you submitted your application before your current stay ends, you can usually remain in the United States while USCIS reviews it. Even if your I-94 expires during the review process, you may still be allowed to stay up to 240 days after I-9 admit until date while awaiting a decision.

            Can I keep studying or doing my program? In most cases, yes. If you follow all immigration rules and filed on time, you can usually keep studying, researching, or participating in your exchange program while your application is being reviewed.

          • Can I keep working while my EOS application is being reviewed?

            Sometimes. On-campus jobs, CPT, and Academic Training If you apply before your program ends, you may be able to keep working for up to 240 days while USCIS reviews your application. This applies to: On-campus jobs CPT J-1 Academic Training OPT and STEM OPT Different rules apply to OPT and STEM OPT. Applying for an EOS does not automatically give you permission to start or continue OPT. Students usually must wait until:

            ✅ Their EOS is approved and

            ✅ Their work authorization is approved before starting post-completion OPT.

            Students with a STEM OPT extension application may have separate work benefits under existing STEM OPT rules.

          • Can I travel while my EOS application is being reviewed?

            Be careful. Leaving the United States while your EOS application is still being reviewed could cause problems. In some cases, USCIS may treat the application as canceled or abandoned. Before making travel plans, talk with your Office of International Affairs (OIA) advisor. They can help you decide if: Staying and waiting is best, or Traveling and returning to the U.S. is a better option

          • What happens if my EOS is approved or denied?

            If it is approved Good news! USCIS will usually give you: A new I-94 A new Admit Until Date You can continue your studies, research, or exchange program as long as you keep following the rules. If it is denied You should contact your Office of International Affairs (OIA) advisor right away. A denial may affect: How long you can stay Your work permission Future immigration benefits Your next steps will depend on why the application was denied.

          • Can I pay extra for faster processing?

            Maybe. Right now, USCIS has not fully explained whether faster processing will be available for all EOS applications. More information may be announced later. Your Office of International Affairs (OIA) advisor can help you stay updated.

          • Will my family members need more time to stay too?

            It depends on a couple of factors. Family members with F-2 or J-2 visas are usually allowed to stay in the U.S. for the same amount of time as the person with the F-1 or J-1 visa. If the main visa holder needs to extend their stay, their family members will usually need to extend their stay too, unless they qualify to stay in the U.S. in another legal way. When possible, family members should apply for the extension at the same time as the main visa holder. You can learn more in the section of this page that talks about F-2 and J-2 dependents.

          Employment Authorization and Practical Training

          • Can I still work if I qualify?

            Yes. The new rule does not change who can work. If you already qualify for a job benefit like on-campus work, CPT, OPT, STEM OPT, or Academic Training, the rules for qualifying stay the same. You still need to: Stay enrolled in school if required. Make good progress toward your degree. Follow reporting rules. Get any approvals that are needed. The new rule mainly changes how long you can stay in the United States, not whether you can work.

            • Does the new ruling change on-campus jobs?

              No. If you are allowed to work on campus now, you can continue to do so. However, if your permission to stay in the U.S. ends before you finish school, you will need to get more legal time to stay. If you apply for an extension of stay before your program ends, you can usually keep working on campus for up to 240 days while your application is being reviewed.

            • Does it change CPT?

              No. The rules for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) stay the same. If your permission to stay ends before your studies are finished, you may need an extension of stay. If you apply on time, you can usually continue your approved CPT for up to 240 days while waiting for a decision.

            • Does it change OPT?

              No. OPT is still available. But because OPT often starts after graduation, some students may need extra permission to stay in the U.S. before beginning OPT. Whether you need an extension of stay depends on things like: When you entered the U.S. Whether special transition rules apply to you. Whether you traveled outside the U.S. after September 15, 2026. The expiration date on your I-94 record. How long your OPT job will last. Talk with your Office of International Affairs (OIA) advisor before you graduate.

            • Are there special OPT transition rules?

              Yes. Some students who were already in the U.S. before September 15, 2026, may get special temporary benefits. If they qualify and submit their OPT application by March 18, 2027, they may not need a separate extension of stay just because they applied for OPT. These special rules only apply to certain students and only for a limited time.

            • Can I work on OPT while my extension of stay is being reviewed?

              Usually not. Applying for an extension of stay does not automatically let you start or continue OPT. You generally must wait until: Your extension of stay is approved, and Your work authorization is approved. One exception is some STEM OPT students, who may be able to keep working for a limited time while their STEM OPT application is being reviewed.

            • Does it change STEM OPT?

              No. Students can still apply for STEM OPT under the current rules. However, because STEM OPT can last a long time, students should check that their permission to stay in the U.S. will last for the entire STEM OPT period. Some students may need: A STEM OPT application, and An extension of stay application. Because the rules can be complicated, students should talk with their Office of International Affairs (OIA) advisor.

            • Does it change J-1 Academic Training?

              No. Academic Training is still available for eligible J-1 students and scholars. If you apply for an extension of stay before your program ends, you can usually continue Academic Training for up to 240 days while waiting for a decision.

            • Does filing an extension of stay automatically extend my work permission?

              No. Getting more time to stay in the U.S. and getting permission to work are related, but they are not the same thing. In some cases, certain jobs can continue for up to 240 days while an extension of stay application is pending. But this does not apply to every type of employment.

            • Does the 240-day rule mean my extension of stay has been approved?

              No. The 240-day period is only a temporary benefit while USCIS reviews your application. USCIS must still decide whether to approve or deny your extension of stay.

            • What if my extension of stay is denied?

              It depends on your situation and the type of job you have. If your application is denied, contact your Office of International Affairs (OIA) advisor right away so they can explain your options and what steps you need to take next.

            • Will My Family Members Need More Time to Stay Too?

              It depends on a couple of factors. Family members with F-2 or J-2 visas are usually allowed to stay in the U.S. for the same amount of time as the person with the F-1 or J-1 visa. If the main visa holder needs to extend their stay, their family members will usually need to extend their stay too, unless they qualify to stay in the U.S. in another legal way. When possible, family members should apply for the extension at the same time as the main visa holder. You can learn more in the section of this page that talks about F-2 and J-2 dependents.

            Information for Students

            • What if I need an extra semester or year to graduate?

              This is common and does not mean you lose your F-1 student status. However, getting a new I-20 does not automatically give you more time to stay in the U.S. If you need more time, you may also need: An approved extension of stay, or To travel outside the U.S. and return with a new admission period It is important to plan ahead because paperwork can take time.

            • How does the rule affect master's students?

              Most master's degree programs last only one or two years. Because of this, most students will finish before their permission to stay in the U.S. expires. Students who plan to use OPT after graduation should carefully check their I-94 expiration date because OPT may last longer than their degree program. Students who plan to continue into another degree program should talk with OIA before graduating.

            • Can I go from a master's program to a Ph.D. program?

              Yes. Students can usually move from a completed master's degree into a Ph.D. program as long as they follow immigration rules and remain eligible for F-1 status. OIA can help make sure immigration documents stay up to date during the transition.

            • How does the rule affect Ph.D. students?

              Ph.D. students will probably be affected the most. Many Ph.D. programs take more than four years to finish. This means many Ph.D. students may need extra permission to stay in the U.S. before their program ends. This does not mean Ph.D. students can only stay for four years. It means they may eventually need: An approved extension of stay, or A new admission period after leaving and reentering the U.S.

            • What if my research takes longer than expected?

              Research projects often take longer than planned. This can happen because of: Extra research Unexpected experiment results Delays in fieldwork Research in libraries or archives Funding problems Changes to a dissertation Changes in advisors Other valid school-related reasons If more time is needed, OIA may be able to help extend the student's I-20. However, if the student's I-94 admit until date expires before the new graduation date, they may also need to file an extension of stay application.

            • What is a "compelling academic reason"?

              A compelling academic reason is a strong school-related reason for needing more time to finish a degree. Examples include: Finishing a dissertation Research delays Required fieldwork Unexpected research results Approved changes in a research project Medical issues that affect school progress Other documented academic reasons USCIS makes the final decision about whether the reason is good enough. OIA can help prepare documents but cannot guarantee approval.

            • Can I change my major or degree goal?

              Under the new rule, graduate students are not allowed to change degree programs at all.

            • What if I take a break from school?

              Students who take a leave of absence, medical leave, or have delays in their studies may need to do extra immigration planning. Because permission to stay in the U.S. now has an expiration date, students should talk to OIA before taking a break from school.

            • What Should Students Do Now?

              Students do not need to become immigration experts, but they should remember a few important things:

              ✅ Know when your I-94 expires.

              ✅ Check your immigration documents after every trip outside the U.S.

              ✅ Start planning several months before your program ends.

              ✅ Talk to OIA before: Extending your program Changing majors or degree goals Taking a leave of absence Planning long trips outside the U.S.

              ✅ Keep copies of: I-20 forms I-94 records Work authorization documents Other immigration papers The biggest lesson: Plan ahead. Knowing your expiration dates and talking with OIA early can help you avoid problems and stay focused on school.

            Transfers and Educational Plans

            • How do the new transfer rules work?

              Graduate students usually cannot transfer to another school while working on their degree. Only a few special situations may allow a transfer, such as a school closing or other very unusual situations approved by the government. Because of this, students should think carefully before making major changes to their school plans.

            • What if my professor moves to another university?

              This could be a big problem for some Ph.D. students. Before, if a professor moved to a different university, a student could often transfer to that university and continue working with the same professor. Under the new rule, graduate students usually cannot transfer schools, even if their professor moves away. Example: Imagine a Ph.D. student who works in a professor's research lab. If the professor moves to another university: Old rule: The student could usually transfer and keep working with the professor. New rule: The student usually cannot transfer unless a special exception is approved. Students in this situation should contact OIA right away.

            • Can I finish one degree and start a higher degree?

              Yes. You can still move up to a higher degree level if you meet the F-1 requirements. Examples:

              ✅ Bachelor's Degree → Master's Degree

              ✅ Master's Degree → Ph.D. This is allowed because you are moving to a higher level of education.

            • Can I earn another degree at the same education level?

              Usually no. For students who finish a degree on or after September 15, 2026, the new rule generally does not allow another degree at the same or lower level using F-1 status. Examples:

              ❌ Bachelor's Degree → Another Bachelor's Degree

              ❌ Master's Degree → Another Master's Degree

              ❌ Ph.D. → Another Ph.D.

              ❌ Ph.D. → Master's Degree However:

              ✅ Bachelor's Degree → Master's Degree

              ✅ Master's Degree → Ph.D. are still allowed because they are higher education levels. Important This new restriction generally applies only to degrees completed on or after September 15, 2026.

            • What if I need to change my research topic?

              Usually, this is okay. Research often changes as students learn new information. Examples include: Discovering something unexpected Changing experiments Adjusting a dissertation topic Following new research findings Changing advisors As long as you stay in the same degree program and department, changing your research topic is usually not considered changing your educational goal.

              Example

              ✅ A Chemistry Ph.D. student changes from one chemistry research topic to another chemistry research topic. This is generally okay.

              ❌ A Chemistry Ph.D. student switches to a Biomedical Engineering Ph.D. program. This may be considered a major change and could be restricted. Talk with OIA before making major changes to your studies.

            • When do these new rules start?

              The rules are scheduled to start on September 15, 2026. However, the government may delay some of the transfer and degree-plan rules if more time is needed to put them into effect. Students should: Watch for updates from OIA Read immigration announcements Talk with OIA before transferring schools or changing degree plans

            Information for J-1 Exchange Visitors

            • How does the new rule affect J-1 exchange visitors?

              The biggest change is that people on J-1 visas will usually receive a specific date showing how long they can stay in the United States. This date is called the Admit Until Date (AUD). If you need to stay longer than that date, you will usually need to: Travel outside the U.S. and come back, or Apply for an extension of stay

              • Does the rule change how long my J-1 program can last?

                No. The maximum length of J-1 programs stays the same. For example: Research Scholars and Professors can still participate for up to five years if eligible. Other J-1 categories keep the same time limits they already have. The new rule changes how long you are admitted at one time, not how long the entire J-1 program can be.

              • What if my appointment is extended?

                It depends. If your current DS-2019 already covers the extension period and your I-94 is still valid, you may not need to do anything. If your appointment goes beyond the end date on your DS-2019, OIA may need to: Extend your program, and Give you an updated DS-2019. You may also need a new period of authorized stay by: Traveling and reentering the U.S., or Applying for an extension of stay before your current stay expires. Because this process can take time, contact OIA early.

              • Do I need a special academic reason to get an extension of stay?

                No. Unlike F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors do not have to prove a "compelling academic reason" to request more time. Instead, they must: Continue meeting the requirements of their J-1 category, and Stay part of an approved J-1 program.

              • Does the rule change Academic Training or J-1 jobs?

                No. Academic Training and other approved J-1 work opportunities are still available. However, if your training or job lasts longer than your current Admit Until Date, you may need more permission to stay in the United States.

              • What if I am already in the U.S. before September 15, 2026?

                For many J-1 visitors, nothing will change right away. Special transition rules may continue to apply until one of these things happens: You travel outside the U.S. and return. You receive an extension of stay. You change your immigration status. You become subject to a new admission period under the new rule.

              • Should I travel or apply for an extension of stay?

                There is no one answer for everyone. Some people may already plan to travel for: Research Conferences Personal trips For them, traveling and returning may be a good option. Others may prefer to stay in the United States and apply for an extension of stay. The best choice depends on things like: Whether your visa is still valid Your travel plans Family needs Research or work responsibilities How much extra time you need OIA can help you decide what is best for your situation.

              • What should J-1 visitors do now?

                OIA recommends that J-1 visitors:

                ✅ Learn whether the transition rules apply to them.

                ✅ Check their I-94 expiration date after every trip to the United States.

                ✅ Talk with their department and OIA early if they may need an appointment extension.

                ✅ Speak with OIA before planning international travel if they may need more time in the U.S.

                ✅ Keep copies of important documents, including: DS-2019 forms I-94 records Work authorization documents (if applicable) Other immigration records

              Information for F-2 and J-2 Dependents

              • How Is My Family Member's Allowed Stay Decided?

                Most of the time, F-2 and J-2 family members will receive the same Admit Until Date as the F-1 student or J-1 exchange visitor. For example: If an F-1 student can stay until August 15, 2030, their F-2 spouse and children will usually have the same date. If a J-1 scholar can stay until the end date on their DS-2019 plus a 30-day grace period, their J-2 family members will usually receive the same amount of time. After every trip back to the United States, each family member should check their Form I-94 to make sure the information is correct.

                • How Does the New Rule Affect F-2 and J-2 Family Members?

                  Starting September 15, 2026, most F-2 and J-2 family members who enter the United States will be given a specific date they can stay in the country until. This date will be listed on their Form I-94 as an Admit Until Date (AUD). Before, many people were admitted for Duration of Status (D/S), which meant they could stay as long as they followed the rules of their visa status. Family members do not get their own separate stay period. Their allowed stay is usually the same as the F-1 student or J-1 exchange visitor they are accompanying.

                • If the Student or Exchange Visitor Extends Their Stay, Do Family Members Need to Extend Too?

                  Usually, yes. If the F-1 student or J-1 exchange visitor needs more time in the United States, their F-2 or J-2 family members will usually need more time as well. Families should work with OIA to make sure all needed applications are submitted together.

                • Do I need a special academic reason to get an extension of stay?

                  No. Unlike F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors do not have to prove a "compelling academic reason" to request more time. Instead, they must: Continue meeting the requirements of their J-1 category, and Stay part of an approved J-1 program.

                • What Happens If the Student or Exchange Visitor Travels Abroad?

                  When the F-1 student or J-1 exchange visitor leaves the U.S. and later returns, they will usually receive a new Form I-94. If family members travel with them, they will usually receive new I-94 records too. If family members travel separately, each person should check their own I-94 after returning. Do not assume everyone's record is exactly the same.

                • What If the Student or Exchange Visitor Changes to a Different Immigration Status?

                  If the F-1 student or J-1 exchange visitor changes to a new immigration status, it may also affect their family members. Family members may need to: Change to a matching dependent status Apply for a different immigration status of their own Leave the United States Because every situation is different, families should talk with OIA before making any changes.

                • Does the New Rule Change What F-2 Family Members Can Do?

                  No. The new rule does not change the rules for F-2 family members. F-2 spouses still cannot work in the United States. F-2 spouses and children must continue following the current rules about school and other activities. The rule only changes how long they are admitted to stay in the U.S., not what they are allowed to do.

                • What Should Families Do?

                  Most families do not need to do anything right away because of the new rule. However, families should: Check every new Form I-94 after traveling internationally. Make sure passports stay valid. Keep track of everyone's Admit Until Date. Plan travel and extensions together. Contact OIA before making major changes to immigration status, employment, or long-term stay plans. Working together and staying organized can help make sure no family member accidentally stays longer than they are allowed.