国产原创

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New Rule FAQs

This information is based on our current understanding of the new rule. This does not constitute legal advice. As we obtain more information and guidance, we will update these responses. Please check your 国产原创 email regularly, as ISSS will email updates and resources.聽

Note: If you are not a 国产原创 student or scholar, please consult with your ISSS office for guidance.聽

General Information

  • What is the new rule?

    F-1 and J-1 students and scholars were admitted to the U.S. for Duration of Status (D/S).聽 They could remain as long as they maintained their status and their Form I-20 or DS-2019 remained valid. Their Form I-94 did not include a specific admission end date.

    Beginning September 15, 2026, those who enter the U.S. in F or J status, and their dependents, will receive a specific admission end date on their Form I-94. In most cases, they will be admitted through the end date listed on their Form I-20 or DS-2019, up to a maximum of four years, plus a 30-day grace period.

    If students or scholars need additional time to complete their program, transfer schools, change educational levels, or take certain other actions that previously could be completed with ISSS while in Duration of Status, they must now obtain an updated I-20/DS-2019 and submit an application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requesting an extension of stay.

  • How does the new rule impact current international students?

    This rule applies to everyone in F-1 or J-1 status, and their dependents.

    Current students already in the U.S. who were admitted for Duration of Status (D/S) and remain in the U.S. on September 15, 2026, will be covered by the rule's transition provisions. Their transition period will last until the program end date listed on their Form I-20 as of September 15, 2026, not to exceed 4 years, plus a 60 day grace period.

    Students entering the U.S. on or after September 15, 2026, including those who are reentering, will be admitted until the program end date on their Form I-20 or DS-2019, not to exceed 4 years (i.e., whichever is shorter), plus a period of 30 days following their program end date.

    Students enrolled in programs that typically require more than four years, including many Ph.D. programs, will need to apply to USCIS for an extension of stay before their period of admission expires if they need additional time to complete their program.

  • If a student is currently in their 5th year of their program, are they out of compliance?

    No. A student is not out of compliance simply because they are in their fifth year of study. The time you have spent in the U.S. prior to September 15, 2026 does not count toward the four years.

    Students who were admitted in Duration of Status (D/S) and are in the U.S. on September 15, 2026, will be covered by the rule's transition provisions. This transitional period will be based on the program end date listed on the student's Form I-20 as of September 15, 2026.

    Students should review the program end date on their Form I-20 or DS-2019. If additional time is needed to complete their program, they should submit a program extension request to ISSS as soon as possible.

  • Does this impact grace periods?

    Yes. Beginning September 15, 2026, the F-1 grace period is reduced from 60 days to 30 days following program completion or the end of OPT/STEM OPT.

    A transition provision applies to students who were physically present in the U.S. in valid F-1 status on September 15, 2026. These students will retain the 60-day grace period unless they either:

    • Depart the U.S. and are readmitted on or after September 15, 2026; or
    • Apply for an extension of stay after September 15, 2026.

    After either of these events, the student will be subject to the new 30-day grace period.

    The J-1 grace period is not changing. J-1 exchange visitors will continue to receive a 30-day grace period following completion of their program.

  • Do I need to do anything with my I-94?

    Yes. Once the new rule takes effect on September 15, 2026, your Form I-94 will become more important than ever. It will be critical to know your Admit Until Date (AUD) and verify that all information on your Form I-94 is accurate.

    ISSS will begin requiring copies of your Form I-94 with many requests. Additional information will be communicated as our processes are updated.

    For now, we encourage you to access your Form I-94, review it carefully, and contact your ISSS advisor promptly if you identify any errors.

  • Will this rule be in effect in a couple years? Could a change in government affect this?

    It is impossible to predict future policy changes. However, a change in administration does not automatically change existing regulations. The Department of Homeland Security would need to go through a formal rulemaking process to amend or rescind this regulation, which can take a significant amount of time. Until that occurs, the rule remains in effect.

  • If I complete my program before my new admission period ends, does this rule mean I can still stay in the U.S. until my admit until date?

    No. If you complete your program earlier than your admission period, your I-20/DS-2019 will be shortened accordingly. You cannot remain in the U.S. past your I-20/DS-2019 end date (plus the 30 day grace period) unless you have taken some other action in a timely manner (such as applying for OPT, filing for a change of status, etc.).

Program Extensions

  • What is the new extension process?

    Students or scholars who need additional time to complete their program must first request a program extension from ISSS. This part of the extension process has not changed. If approved, ISSS will issue an updated Form I-20 or DS-2019.聽

    You must then file Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The application requires a filing fee and supporting documentation.

    Alternatively, you may be able to leave the U.S. and reenter with the updated Form I-20 or DS-2019, requesting a new admission period at the port of entry. However, we awaiting additional guidance on this option. Please consult with your assigned ISSS advisor if you have any questions.聽

  • What if the academic program is longer than four years (i.e. PhD programs)?

    Students or scholars in programs that typically require more than four years, including many Ph.D. programs, will need to apply to USCIS for an extension of stay before their period of admission expires if they need additional time to complete their program.

  • Can a student or scholar remain in the U.S. while waiting for approval from USCIS?

    Yes. If a student or scholar files a timely and properly completed Form I-539 before their current period of admission expires, they may remain in the U.S. while USCIS processes the application. They should consult with ISSS before making any international travel plans while an extension application is pending.

  • How long will the new extension process take?

    Once a complete program extension request is submitted, ISSS will issue an updated Form I-20 or DS-2019 within 5-7 business days, provided the student or scholar remains eligible for an extension. After the student or scholar files Form I-539 with USCIS, processing times will vary depending on USCIS workload and other factors. At this time, premium processing is not available for Form I-539 extension applications.

Academic Changes

This includes transfers, change of major, and change of education level.

  • Will I be able to transition from an undergraduate to graduate program?

    Yes. F-1 and J-1 undergraduate students may still continue directly into a graduate program. The difference is that, instead of completing only a change of education level with ISSS, students must then file an application with USCIS to extend their stay before beginning their graduate program.

  • Can I pursue my second masters after I have already completed my masters in the U.S.?

    If your second master鈥檚 program begins before the new rule takes effect, you may begin the program through the current ISSS process. You should submit the appropriate request to ISSS and obtain your new Form I-20 before beginning the program. You will not need to file an extension-of-stay application with USCIS to make this transition.

    Students who begin a second master's program on or after September 15, 2026, are subject to the new rule. Under the rule, students are not eligible for a lateral matriculation, meaning they cannot pursue a second degree at the same educational level after completing a U.S. master's degree in F-1 status.

  • Can I transfer my SEVIS record to attend another school?

    It depends on when your transfer occurs.

    If your SEVIS transfer is completed before September 15, 2026, it will follow the current process. You will submit a transfer request to ISSS and work with your new school to obtain a new Form I-20.

    If your transfer occurs on or after September 15, 2026, you will be subject to the new rule. Undergraduate students generally may not transfer during their first academic year. Graduate students generally may not transfer to another school during their program of study, unless SEVP authorizes an exception due to extenuating circumstances. Students who are eligible to transfer under the new rule will also need to follow the new extension of stay requirements.

    The restrictions on transferring schools does not apply to J-1 students.聽

    If you are considering transferring schools, we encourage you to discuss your plans with your ISSS advisor as early as possible.

  • I'm a PhD student. Can I obtain a Master's in passing? What if I decide to Master out instead?

    Can I earn a master's degree while enrolled in a Ph.D. program?

    Yes, in many cases. The new rule allows Ph.D. students to receive a master's degree incidental to status while continuing to make normal progress toward completion of their Ph.D., often referred to as a "Master's in passing."

    However, if you plan to leave your Ph.D. program to complete only a master's degree ("mastering out"), the new rule may treat this as a change in educational objective at a lower level, referred to as reverse matriculation. This is not allowed by the new rule.

    ISSS is awaiting additional guidance from DHS and SEVP on how these situations will be handled. Students considering this option should consult with their ISSS advisor before making any changes to their academic plans.

  • My PI is moving to another university. Can I transfer with my PI?

    A SEVIS transfer may not be possible under the new rule. However, there may be other options in this situation. Consult your ISSS advisor before making any commitments.

International Travel

  • What impact does this rule have on my upcoming international travel plans?

    The new rule does not prohibit or discourage international travel. However, because international travel may affect your immigration status or future immigration benefits, students and scholars should carefully consider their individual circumstances before making travel plans.

    Factors to consider include:

    • Your Form I-20 or DS-2019 end date
    • Any anticipated applications for OPT, STEM OPT, or an extension of stay
    • Your visa expiration date
    • Your academic or employment obligations
    • Current U.S. travel, visa, and immigration policies

    Because every situation is different, we encourage students and scholars to schedule an appointment with their ISSS advisor before making international travel plans.

  • Does time spent outside of the U.S. affect the admission period?

    Not directly. Your admission period will always be the earlier of four years or your I-20/DS-2019 end date.聽

    For instance, if your I-20/DS-2019 end date is May 12, 2028, your admission period will be May 12, 2028 (plus the grace period). This is true with or without international travel.

    However, note that extended time spent outside of the U.S. may not be compatible with your F or J status. Consult your ISSS advisor if you have questions about this.

  • Can I still study abroad under the new rule?

    Yes. The new rule does not prohibit study abroad. If you are studying abroad on a VU-approved program, your SEVIS record will remain active while you are engaged in your study abroad program.

    However, if your study abroad program delays your graduation, you may need to file an extension of stay.

  • I received a travel signature before September 15. I plan to travel in December. Does my travel signature mean that the new rule will not apply to me?

    No. The travel signature simply means that you are maintaining your status.聽 It has no impact on the admission period. If you travel on or after September 15, you will receive an admission period that is the earlier of 4 years or your I-20/DS-2019 end date (plus a 30-day grace period).

Visa Stamps

  • My visa stamp is expired (or expiring soon). Does this rule mean I have to renew it now?

    No. The new rule does not change the validity of your F-1 or J-1 visa stamp. Your visa is a travel document that allows you to request admission to the U.S. It is separate from your F/J status while you are in the U.S. Many students and scholars remain in the U.S. with an expired visa while maintaining valid F/J status.

    If you travel outside the U.S. after your visa expires, you will need to apply for a new F/J visa before returning (unless you are a Canadian citizen). The new rule does not change this requirement.

  • Will my visa expiration date impact my admit until date?

    No, the visa expiration date has no impact on your admit until date on your I-94.

OPT and STEM OPT

  • I'm on OPT/STEM OPT now. What does this rule mean for me?

    On September 15, 2026, you will be granted an admission period that is valid until the end date on your EAD, plus a grace period. If you are physically present in the U.S. on September 15, and you do not travel internationally, you retain a 60-day grace period. If you travel internationally on or after September 15, your grace period will be shortened to 30 days.

  • Does this impact how I apply for OPT or STEM OPT?

    Yes. Under the new rule, most students applying for post-completion OPT or STEM OPT will also need to file an extension of stay application (Form I-539) with USCIS in addition to the Form I-765.

    A transition provision applies to certain students who were physically present in the U.S. in valid F-1 status on September 15, 2026. If those students remain eligible for the transition provision and timely file their OPT or STEM OPT application on or before March 18, 2027, they do not need to file a separate extension of stay application.

    If you are unsure which process applies to you, we encourage you to consult with your ISSS advisor before applying.

  • Do I still have 90 days of unemployment from my OPT start date to my employment start date?

    Yes. The new rule does not change the unemployment limits for post-completion OPT. You may accrue up to 90 days of unemployment beginning on the OPT start date listed on your Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Any days between your OPT start date and the date you begin employment count toward the 90-day limit.

  • How early can I file for OPT or STEM OPT under the new rule?

    You can file for your OPT application as early as 90 days before your program completion date (your graduation date, or possibly an earlier date for thesis/dissertation students); you can file for STEM OPT as early as 90 days before your post-completion OPT EAD expires. The new rule does not change this.

    If your admission period does not cover the time for your OPT/STEM OPT, you must also file for an extension of stay. USCIS has not yet clarified how this process will work for those seeking OPT or STEM OPT.

Academic Training

  • How does this rule affect academic training?

    On September 15, 2026, J-1 students will be granted an admission period that is the earlier of 4 years or the end date of their DS-2019. If you are currently on post-completion academic training, your DS-2019 end date matches the end date of your current academic training authorization.

    ISSS typically must extend your DS-2019 for any post-completion academic training authorization. If your admission period does not cover the additional time to complete your academic training, you must file an extension of stay. (Note that academic training does not require filing an I-765 with USCIS.)

  • Should I file for academic training before September 15?

    It depends. Academic training is site-specific, so you cannot apply for it without a job offer. However, if you already have a job offer and you meet all other eligibility criteria, you can apply for it now. Since ISSS must extend your DS-2019 when you apply for academic training, academic training issued before September 15 will not require an extension of stay application. Consult your ISSS advisor on your timeline and next steps.聽

    Note that academic training must be requested and approved before the end date on your DS-2019.

Employment

  • How does this rule impact CPT?

    The new rule does not change the eligibility requirements for Curricular Practical Training (CPT).

    However, depending on your Admit Until Date (AUD) and the length of your program, you may also need to apply for an extension of stay with USCIS to remain in the U.S. while participating in CPT.

    If you timely file an extension of stay application before your Admit Until Date expires, your authorized CPT may continue for up to 240 days while your application is pending, or until the CPT end date on your Form I-20, whichever is earlier. This automatic continuation does not apply if you file the extension of stay during the 30-day grace period. This also only applies to CPT that was authorized prior to the extension of stay filing.聽

  • How does this rule impact on-campus employment?

    The new rule does not change the eligibility requirements for on-campus employment.

    However, depending on your Admit Until Date (AUD) and the length of your program, you may also need to apply for an extension of stay with USCIS to remain in the U.S. and continue your on-campus employment.

    If you timely file an extension of stay application before your Admit Until Date expires, your authorized on-campus employment may continue for up to 240 days while your application is pending. This automatic continuation does not apply if you file during the 30-day grace period.

Leaves of Absence and Underloads

  • I'm taking a gap semester (leave of absence) next semester. How does this rule impact me?

    A leave of absence is still permissible under the new rule. However, keep in mind that travel outside of the U.S. on or after September 15, 2026, will make you subject to all provisions of the new rule. When you return to the U.S. after your leave of absence, your admission period will be the earlier of four years or the end date on your I-20/DS-2019, whichever is earlier, plus a 30-day grace period. If you apply for OPT, you will need to submit an extension of stay alongside your OPT application.

    Please consult with your assigned ISSS advisor before considering a leave of absence.聽

  • Will I still be able to apply for a reduced course load (RCL)?

    F-1 and J-1 students are required to enroll full-time each fall and spring semester. They can only be approved to take an underload in a few, very specific circumstances. You must be authorized by ISSS for a reduced courseload (RCL) before you can take an underload. The new rule does not change that.聽

    However, an underload may lead to a delayed completion date. You may need to file for an extension of stay as a result. USCIS may require you to submit documentation about the underload.聽

J-1 Scholars

  • Will these new rules affect current J-1 visa holders who already have a DS-2019 valid for five years?

    Not immediately in most cases. If you are maintaining J-1 status in the U.S. on September 15, 2026, transition provisions will allow you to remain until the program end date on the DS-2019 that is valid on that date, or until September 15, 2030, whichever is earlier (plus a 30-day grace period).聽

    If you leave the U.S. and reenter on or after September 15, 2026, U.S. Customs and Border Protection will issue a new Form I-94 with a specific admission end date.

  • I am filing for an extension of stay. Will I be able to continue working while my extension of stay is pending?

    As long as your extension of stay is timely filed prior to the admit until date, you can continue program activities at 国产原创 for up to 240 days or when USCIS makes a decision, whichever comes first.聽聽

    This automatic continuation does not apply if you file during the 30-day grace period.

  • My PI is moving to another university, so I plan to transfer. Can I transfer under the new rule?

    The new rule does not restrict or prohibit transfers for J-1 exchange visitors. As long as you are eligible for a transfer, you can transfer your SEVIS record to another institution. Consult your ISSS advisor on the timeline and eligibility criteria.

    Note that if your current admission period will not cover the full period of time at your new institution, an extension of stay application will be required.

  • Can I extend my DS-2019 before September 15?

    Possibly. Discuss with your host department if they think an extension of your current DS-2019 is needed. If your department agrees, they will need to submit an extension request to ISSS.

Dependents

A dependent refers to a legal spouse or unmarried child under 21 who is on an F-2 or J-2 visa.

  • Will my dependents need to file an extension of stay?

    Your dependents' admission period cannot exceed your own admission period. If you need to extend your admission period, your dependents will need to do so as well if they plan to remain in the U.S. with you in their current status.

    A dependent can file for their own extension of stay, or they can be added to your application.

  • My J-2 dependent has an EAD card. Can they continue to work while our extension of stay is pending?

    Unfortunately, no. J-2 dependent employment is not covered in the 240-day temporary extension period.聽

  • I have a dependent who is about to turn 21. What should we do?

    Children on an F-2 or J-2 age out when they turn 21. Talk to your ISSS advisor in advance about what this means for you.

    Note: If a dependent will age out before your maximum admission period or I-20/DS-2019 end date, your admit until date will match the day your dependent ages out.

    For example, if your DS-2019 end date is December 31, 2028, but you have a J-2 dependent who will turn 21 on August 27, 2027, your admit until date will be August 21, 2027 (plus the grace period).