DHS Final Rule Ending Duration of Status

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a final rule in the Federal Register regarding the elimination of Duration of Status (D/S) for F and J visa holders. This final rule will go into effect 60 days after the publication date, which will be on September 15, 2026, unless DHS changes or terminates the rule after congressional review.

International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) is reviewing the final rule in detail and analyzing the potential impacts on our campus community. We will share additional information and guidance as it becomes available. In the meantime, students and the campus community should review the following resources:

 

We understand that changes to immigration policy can create uncertainty and concern. ISSS remains committed to supporting our international students, scholars, and the broader UCCS community throughout this transition. We will continue to provide timely, accurate information as additional guidance becomes available.

Because immigration regulations are complex and continue to evolve, students, faculty, and staff should rely on official guidance from ISSS and federal agencies rather than information circulating on social media, news outlets, or other unofficial sources. Faculty and staff who receive questions about the final rule are encouraged to refer students directly to ISSS so they receive the most current and accurate information specific to their individual circumstances.

Students: The UCCS Wellness Center offers confidential support for students experiencing stress, anxiety, loneliness, or anyone who would simply benefit from speaking with a counselor.

Faculty and Staff: There are several options available for faculty and staff. Please review information here. 

Thank you for your patience and understanding as ISSS reviews these developments. We are committed to keeping our community informed with clear, accurate, and timely guidance.

What is the DHS Final Rule on fixed periods of stay for F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors?

On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a final rule titled 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.

Beginning September 15, 2026, the rule replaces the long-standing Duration of Status (D/S) admission policy with a fixed period of stay for individuals entering the United States in F-1 and J-1 status. Rather than listing "D/S" on Form I-94, U.S. Customs and Border Protection will issue an Admit Until Date (AUD) that specifies the date a person's authorized stay ends.

In most cases, the AUD will match the program completion date listed on the Form I-20 or Form DS-2019, up to a maximum admission period of four years, whichever is earlier. Students and exchange visitors who need additional time beyond the date on their I-94 will generally be required to submit an Extension of Stay application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

 

What does "Duration of Status (D/S)" mean?

Before September 15, 2026, most F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors were admitted to the United States for Duration of Status (D/S). Under this policy, individuals could remain in the U.S. as long as they maintained valid immigration status and continued to meet the requirements of their academic or exchange program.

Effective September 15, 2026, D/S admissions will no longer be used for new entries in F-1 and J-1 status. Instead, each traveler will receive a specific Admit Until Date on their Form I-94.

 

Who will be impacted by the new rule?

The rule applies to individuals in F and J immigration status. This includes international students and scholars, their dependents, and other individuals in these visa categories. 

 

When does the Final Rule take effect?

DHS published the final rule in the Federal Register on July 17, 2026. The rule is scheduled to become effective on September 15, 2026. Until that date, existing Duration of Status (D/S) policies continue to apply.

 

What changes under the new rule?

Starting September 15, 2026, the following provisions will apply to F-1 students and J-1 exchange visitors:

  • Specific Admit Until Date (AUD) on Form I-94 – Instead of showing "D/S," the I-94 will include a fixed expiration date. In most cases, this date will correspond to the program end date on the Form I-20 or DS-2019, or four years from admission, whichever is earlier. The AUD includes the applicable 30-day departure period.
  • Four-year limit on admission – Even if a program extends beyond four years, the initial period of admission generally cannot exceed four years.
  • Extension of Stay (EOS) requirement – Students or scholars who need additional time to finish their academic program or participate in authorized post-completion benefits, such as Optional Practical Training (OPT), STEM OPT, or Academic Training, must apply to USCIS for an Extension of Stay before their I-94 expires. USCIS filing fees will apply.
  • Shorter grace period for F-1 students – The grace period for F-1 students will decrease from 60 days to 30 days. The J-1 grace period remains unchanged at 30 days.
  • Limits on transferring institutions
    • Undergraduate F-1 and J-1 students may not transfer to another U.S. institution during their first year of study.
    • Graduate F-1 and J-1 students may not transfer to another institution during their degree program.
  • Limits on changing academic programs
    • Undergraduate F-1 and J-1 students may not change their major during their first year of study.
    • Graduate F-1 and J-1 students may not change their program or field of study at any time after beginning their degree program.

 

What should I do now?

Although the rule has not yet taken effect, there are several steps you can take to prepare:

  • Review your Form I-94. You can access your electronic I-94 through the official government website. For most current F-1 and J-1 students and scholars, the Admit Until Date field still displays "D/S." Individuals entering the United States on or after September 15, 2026, will instead receive a specific Admit Until Date.
  • Verify your passport validity. Your passport should remain valid for at least six months into the future while you are in the United States. If your passport expires before the date shown on your I-94, your authorized stay may end on your passport expiration date. Renew your passport in advance if necessary.
  • Monitor future updates. Continue checking the International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) website and your UCCS email for announcements and guidance.