Proposed DHS "Duration of Status" (D/S) Rule Change

What Might be Changing? 

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a proposed rule if approved would the current Duration of Status (D/S) admission system for F-1 and J-1 students and scholars. Under current rules, individuals may remain in the United States if they maintain their valid immigration status and program participation. 

If implemented, the proposed rule would replace D/S with a fixed end date on Form I-94, typically based on the program end date or four years, whichever is shorter. 

Key Proposed Changes 

Fixed period of stay: F-1 and J-1 students and scholars would receive a specific I-94 expiration date instead of D/S. 

Extension applications required: Individuals needing additional time would have to file an Extension of Stay application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and pay associated fees. 

Shorter F-1 grace period: The current 60-day grace period for F-1 students after program completion would be reduced to 30 days. The J-1 grace period will remain 30 days. 

Limits on academic changes and transfers: New restrictions would limit certain transfers, program changes, and educational objectives for F-1 students. 

Current Status 

The proposed rule is not yet in effect. DHS completed its review in May 2026, and the rule is currently awaiting final review by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). If approved, the final rule would become effective 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. 

What Does This Means for Students and Scholars? 

If implemented, the rule could increase immigration-related paperwork, filing fees, and processing times, while reducing flexibility for program extensions, transfers, and academic changes. The Office of International Affairs is monitoring the proposal and assessing its potential impact on international students, scholars, and academic programs. 

We will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as additional information becomes available.