Archive · 23 Jul 2026
US Ends Duration of Status for International Students
The US government has decided to change the rules for international students and exchange visitors.
Instead of being allowed to stay as long as they are enrolled in a program, they will now be given a fixed period of up to 4 years.
After that, they need to apply for an extension to stay longer.
This change will affect students in longer programs, like PhDs, the most.
They will need to apply for extensions mid-program, which can be costly and time-consuming.
Additionally, the grace period after completing studies or Optional Practical Training (OPT) has been reduced from 60 to 30 days.
This means students have less time to find a job or make other arrangements before they must leave the country.
Students are advised to plan carefully and avoid making changes to their programs casually.
The US is ending the Duration of Status for F-1, J-1, and I visa holders, replacing it with a fixed admission period of up to 4 years.
Students in programs longer than 4 years must apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS) with USCIS to continue their studies.
The grace period after completing studies or OPT has been reduced from 60 to 30 days.
Students whose EOS applications are pending will receive an automatic 240-day extension of work authorization.
Students are advised to file for OPT early, avoid changing programs casually, and keep their paperwork in order.
- Who
- International students (F-1), exchange visitors (J-1), and foreign media representatives (I)
- What
- End of Duration of Status, replacement with a fixed admission period of up to 4 years
- When
- Effective from September 15, 2026
- Where
- United States
- Why
- To streamline the immigration process and ensure better tracking and management of international students and visitors
Students and Advocates
US Government
Impact on Students
Students and Advocates
Students, especially those pursuing longer programs like PhDs, will face significant challenges due to the need for mid-program extensions and stricter rules, which can lead to delays and additional costs.
US Government
The new rule aims to streamline the immigration process and ensure better tracking and management of international students and visitors.
Grace Period Reduction
Students and Advocates
The reduction of the grace period from 60 to 30 days is particularly harsh, as it limits the time students have to secure jobs or make arrangements after completing their studies.
US Government
The reduction in the grace period is intended to encourage students to plan their next steps more efficiently and reduce overstays.
- Effective Date
- September 15, 2026
- Maximum Admission Period
- 4 years
- Grace Period
- 30 days
- Automatic Work Authorization Extension
- 240 days
- Impacted Visa Categories
- F-1, J-1, I