End of Duration Status Update

Important Update for F-1 and J-1 Students

July 17, 2026

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has published new regulations replacing Duration of Status (D/S) with a fixed period of admission for many F-1 and J-1 nonimmigrants. These changes take effect on September 15, 2026. Students and scholars should carefully review this information and check their Form I-94 after every entry to the United States

Understanding the End of Duration of Status (D/S)

For many years, F‑1 students and J‑1 exchange visitors were admitted to the United States under a policy known as Duration of Status (D/S). Under this system, students and scholars could generally remain in the United States for as long as they maintained their immigration status and continued to make normal progress toward their academic or exchange objectives.

The new DHS regulation replaces D/S with a fixed period of admission. Instead of receiving “D/S” on the Form I‑94 arrival record, most students and exchange visitors will receive a specific expiration date that determines how long they may remain in the United States. This admission period is generally connected to the program end date listed on the Form I‑20 or DS‑2019, subject to applicable regulatory limits.

Students and exchange visitors who require additional time beyond their authorized admission period may need to request an Extension of Stay (EOS) from USCIS before their current admission period expires.

Who Is Affected?

The new regulations affect individuals in F and J status, including:

• F‑1 students
• F‑2 dependents
• J‑1 students
• J‑1 scholars, professors, researchers, and other exchange visitors
• J‑2 dependents

The impact will vary depending on factors such as program length, travel history, academic progress, employment authorization, and future educational or immigration plans.

Who Is Not Affected?

The changes do not apply to individuals who are not admitted under the D/S framework, including:

• Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card holders)
• H‑1B workers
• O‑1 workers
• TN professionals
• Most other nonimmigrant classifications that already receive a fixed admission period

Important Information for F‑1 Students

Fixed Admission Periods

After the rule takes effect, students should expect to see a specific Admit Until Date on their Form I‑94 rather than a D/S notation. Because this date now governs the authorized period of stay, students should review their I‑94 following every entry to the United States.

The authorized admission period will generally be tied to the academic program listed on the Form I‑20 and may not exceed regulatory limits.

Extension of Stay (EOS) Requirements

Students who need additional time to:

• Complete their degree program
• Extend their academic program
• Begin a new academic program
• Participate in post-completion OPT
• Participate in STEM OPT

may need to submit an Extension of Stay application to USCIS before their current admission period expires.

Unlike previous procedures that were primarily handled through SEVIS updates, many future extensions may require federal review and approval. Students should begin planning well in advance and consult the international student office as early as possible.

Program Changes and Transfers

The final rule introduces new restrictions affecting certain academic changes and institutional transfers. Students considering any of the following should consult the international student office before taking action:

• School transfers
• Changes in educational level
• Changes in field of study
• Additional degree programs
• Other significant academic plan changes

Because the regulations create new limitations that differ from prior practice, individual advising is essential.

Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT

Students planning to apply for OPT or STEM OPT should pay close attention to both their employment authorization timeline and their I‑94 admission period.

Approval of an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) does not automatically extend a student’s authorized stay. Additional immigration filings may be required depending on the student’s individual circumstances and admission period.

Students are encouraged to meet with an international student advisor well before submitting any OPT-related application. Contact the Office of Global Engagement to schedule a time with your Designated School Official/SEVIS Coordinator at globalengagement@rivier.edu.

Shorter Grace Period

Under the new rule, F‑1 students generally receive a 30‑day departure period following completion of their program or authorized practical training, rather than the previous 60‑day grace period. During this time, students may prepare to depart the United States, transfer schools where permitted, or pursue another eligible immigration option.

Your Form I‑94 Is More Important Than Ever

The Form I‑94 admission record will become one of the most important immigration documents for F‑1 and J‑1 students.

Students should not assume that the expiration date on a visa stamp, passport, Form I‑20, DS‑2019, or employment authorization document determines their authorized stay. The controlling admission date will generally be the date listed on the Form I‑94.

To avoid immigration complications, students should:

• Download and review their I‑94 after every entry.
• Verify the Admit Until Date is correct.
• Keep copies of all I‑94 records.
• Report any discrepancies to the international student office immediately.
• Request immigration guidance well before their admission period expires.

Explore the Frequently Asked Questions document prepared by the International Student Resource Center for more information.

DHS, USCIS, SEVP, CBP, and the Department of State may issue additional guidance affecting implementation of these regulations. Students should review official government resources and consult the International Student Office regarding their specific situation. This information is provided for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.