End of “Duration of Status”: The new F-1 visa rule and what it means for international students (2026)

If you study in the United States on an F-1 visa—or plan to do so—you’ve probably heard that “the rules are changing.” There is a lot of information circulating, and not all of it is correct. Here we explain, without technical jargon and without alarmism, what actually changed, when it takes effect, and what you should do.

What changed

On July 17, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a final rule that eliminates the system known as “Duration of Status” (D/S) for F-1 students (as well as for J exchange visitors and I media representatives).

Until now, most F-1 students were admitted “for the duration of their status”: they could stay as long as they remained full-time students in good standing, without a fixed expiration date. With the new rule, that changes: admission will now have a specific expiration date, which will appear on your I-94 form as the “Admit Until Date” (AUD).

When it takes effect

The rule takes effect on September 15, 2026. Until that date, students will continue to be admitted under the previous system (Duration of Status).

An important nuance: DHS has noted that the effective date could still change, because the rule is classified as a “major rule” subject to Congressional review and is likely to face lawsuits. That’s why it is best to stay informed through official sources and not take anything as final.

The numbers that matter

• Admission period: up to the duration of your program according to the I-20, not to exceed 4 years, plus 30 days to arrive and 30 days to depart.
• English language programs (ESL): total limit of 24 months, including breaks and annual vacations.
• Grace period upon completion: reduced from 60 to 30 days.
• Extensions: to stay beyond your I-94 date, you must file an extension of stay (EOS) request with USCIS before your authorization expires.

Who does it affect and how?

Not all students are affected in the same way:

• If you are already studying in the U.S.: there are transition rules. Generally speaking, those who were admitted with Duration of Status before September 15, 2026, keep their 60-day grace period until they travel and re-enter, or until they obtain an extension; from that moment on, they receive a fixed date on their I-94 with a 30-day grace period.
• If you are going to apply for the F-1: you will enter directly under the new fixed-period scheme.
• If you are studying English (ESL): the 24-month total limit applies.
• If you plan to travel: upon re-entering after the effective date, you could receive a fixed expiration date on your I-94.

Other restrictions to keep in mind

The rule also introduces limits on academic mobility. In general, graduate F-1 students will not be able to change their educational objective or transfer schools during their program, except for limited exceptions approved by the SEVP program; additionally, those completing a program are expected to advance to a higher educational level, rather than repeating the same or a lower level. Certain reasons (such as program delays or academic suspension) generally will not serve to justify an extension.

What to do now

1. Stay informed through official DHS sources, not rumors on social media.
2. Review your I-20 and I-94 and write down the important dates.
3. If you plan to travel, first understand how re-entry may affect your stay.
4. If you think you will need more time, find out about the extension (EOS) in advance.
5. If you have any doubts about your specific case, seek professional guidance.

In summary

It is the most important change to the student visa in decades, but it does not mean that everyone will lose their status. The key is to know the dates, understand how it applies to your situation, and plan ahead. At Primus360, we accompany international students every step of their process and can help you understand how these changes affect your case.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute legal immigration advice. The application of the rule depends on each case. For official information, visit studyinthestates.dhs.gov, and for your particular situation, consult a qualified professional.