The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has published a rule that ends “duration of status” (D/S) for F and J nonimmigrants. This rule takes effect on September 15.

The rule eliminates the longstanding D/S policy for international students and scholars, replacing it with a defined period of stay, plus a short grace period. Anyone who wishes to remain in the U.S. beyond that time must apply to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for an extension of status. The rule also introduces several other new requirements, such as restrictions on changes in major or level of study.

Rule Changes in Brief

Based on the new rule, admission to the United States for F/J students and scholars now comes with a fixed expiration date: either the program end date or four years—whichever is shorter. In most cases, those physically in the U.S. when the rule takes effect will be permitted to retain D/S for up to four years, provided they maintain their status and do not travel abroad or require a program extension.

• Extensions of stay must be approved by USCIS.
• The F-1 grace period is reduced to 30 days.
• New regulations limit undergraduate and graduate students’ flexibility to transfer between U.S. institutions or change “educational objectives” and degree level.

Congressional review: The new policy has been classified as a major rule subject to congressional review. The effective date is currently September 15, but congressional review could change the start date or terminate the rule. International Services will update you on any changes due to congressional review. 

Read the rule: "Establishing a Fixed Time Period of Admission and an Extension of Stay Procedure for Nonimmigrant Academic Students, Exchange Visitors, and Representatives of Foreign Information Media" (156 pages)

Read the New Analysis and FAQ

Our immigration experts have create a detailed analysis and guidance and related FAQ for Cornell's international community. These pages represent our current understanding of the rule and offer in-depth analysis and guidance through the transition until the rule takes effect on September 15. We’ll update them regularly now and into the fall as we learn more. 

We understand this rule change is unsettling and raises many questions for Cornell's international community. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us if you have questions about the new rule or your own circumstances.

Stay informed by checking International Services alerts for the most up-to-date guidance. Additional useful information can be found on the Executive Orders site (NetID required). Subscribe to receive important updates and our monthly newsletter by email. (International students are automatically subscribed.)