Practical Guide

New F-1 Student Rule

Understand the changes implemented by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that affect international students in the United States starting in September 2026.

Table of Contents

Navigate the topics covered on this page

Understand what changes with the new rule and how it affects the admission period for F-1 students and their dependents.

Learn what happens if you are already in the U.S. as an F-1 student before the new rule takes effect in September 2026.

Understand what the admission deadline is, how it is calculated, and where to check it.

Find out when and how to apply for an extension of stay with USCIS to remain in the U.S. legally.

Learn the rules on changing educational level, transferring schools, and changing programs under the new regulation.

Understand the new 30-day deadline to leave the U.S. after program completion and its relationship to the AUD.

Review the key consolidated changes and the concrete actions students and advisors should take now.

Quick answers to the most common questions about the new F-1 rule and its day-to-day impact on students.

GENERAL

What Does the New Rule Mean for F-1 Students?


1

Until now, F-1 students were admitted to the United States for an indefinite period called Duration of Status (D/S).

This period was recorded on Form I-94 and allowed the student to remain in the country as long as they maintained their F-1 status and met all program requirements.

2

With the publication of the final rule by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), this system has been significantly changed.

Starting September 15, 2026, F-1 students will be admitted for a fixed period of stay, based on the program duration indicated on Form I-20, with the following limits by program type:

  • General programs (undergraduate, graduate, etc.): up to 4 years
  • English language programs (ESL/ELT), such as the one offered by Antares Metrowest: up to 24 months
  • Public high schools: up to 12 months

In all cases, 30 days before the program start date and 30 days after its completion are added.

3

This period will be indicated by a specific Admit Until Date (AUD) on Form I-94, replacing the former D/S notation.

 

Important: For English language programs (ESL), such as the one offered by Antares Metrowest, the maximum admission period is up to 24 months, not four years.

GENERAL

Extension of the Admission Period

If the Student Needs More Time

If the student needs additional time to complete their program, start a new program, or participate in OPT or STEM OPT, they must file an Extension of Stay (EOS) with USCIS.

Alternatively, they may depart the United States and request a new admission period upon returning, subject to approval by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

GENERAL

Are F-2 Dependents Also Affected?

Yes. Dependents with F-2 status will also receive a fixed admission period under the new rule. The authorized period of stay for the dependent cannot exceed the authorized period of the principal F-1 student.

Similarly, if it becomes necessary to remain in the United States beyond the Admit Until Date (AUD), dependents will also need to file an Extension of Stay (EOS) with USCIS, when applicable.

Practical Example

The student has a spouse and a child with F-2 status. If the student obtains an extension of stay approved by USCIS, the dependents will also need to extend their stay to remain lawfully in the United States.

GENERAL

When Does the New Rule Take Effect?

Until September 15, 2026, F-1 students will continue to be admitted under the Duration of Status (D/S) system. Starting on that date, new students and students returning from international travel will be admitted with a fixed admission period (AUD). Students already present in the country in August 2026 who do not travel will be assessed under the transition rules established by DHS.

CHAPTER 2

Transition Period

Understand the specific rules for students who were already in the United States before the new regulation took effect.

TRANSITION PERIOD

Do Students in D/S Need to Apply for an Extension of Stay?

F-1 students who are already in the United States and were admitted under the Duration of Status (D/S) regime may remain in the country without needing to apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS) until the Program End Date indicated on their Form I-20 (Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status) or until the end of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM OPT extension that is valid on the effective date of the final rule, not exceeding November 14, 2030 (four years, plus a 60-day departure grace period).

If the student wishes to remain in the United States beyond this period — for example, to begin a new program of study or participate in a new period of OPT or STEM OPT — they must apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS) with USCIS or travel and apply for a new admission upon returning.

Practical Example

The student began an English program in January 2026 and was already in F-1 status before September 15, 2026. Their Form I-20 has a Program End Date of June 2028.

Since they were admitted under D/S before the new rule, they may remain until the Program End Date without applying for an EOS, as long as they continue to meet the transition rule requirements.

If they wish to begin a new course that extends beyond that period, they must apply for an EOS or obtain a new period of admission upon returning.

TRANSITION PERIOD

Can Students in D/S Travel After the New Rule?

Yes. Students who were already in F-1 status will be able to continue traveling internationally. However, starting September 15, 2026, upon returning to the United States, they may be admitted with a new fixed admission period, based on the program end date listed on their Form I-20.

In other words, upon re-entering the country, the student may no longer be under the old D/S system and may instead receive an Admit Until Date (AUD) recorded on their Form I-94. For this reason, it is essential to check the Form I-94 after every entry into the country.

Practical Example

The student was already studying in the United States before September 15, 2026, and decides to travel to Brazil in December 2026. Upon returning, CBP may issue a new Form I-94 with an Admit Until Date (AUD) instead of the D/S notation.

CHAPTER 3

Admit Until Date (AUD)

Understand what the Admit Until Date is, how it is determined, and where to check it.

ADMIT UNTIL DATE

What Does the Admit Until Date (AUD) Mean?

The Admit Until Date (AUD) represents the maximum period during which a nonimmigrant is authorized to remain in the United States. It corresponds to the last day the student may legally remain in the country based on their current admission.

After this date, the student may not remain legally in the United States, unless they have taken the necessary steps to maintain their status before the AUD expires — such as filing for an Extension of Stay (EOS) or obtaining a new admission upon returning from international travel.

The AUD replaces the former D/S annotation on Form I-94, providing greater predictability and clarity regarding the authorized period of stay.

Practical Example

The student has an Admit Until Date of July 15, 2028. If they need to remain in the United States after that date to complete their studies or begin a new program, they must take the necessary steps before their authorized stay expires.

ADMIT UNTIL DATE

Is My AUD Different from the Program End Date on Form I-20?

Yes. The Admit Until Date (AUD) can differ from the Program End Date listed on Form I-20. Here is how the AUD is calculated in each situation:

Program shorter than 4 years

AUD = Program End Date + 30 days to depart the U.S.

Program longer than 4 years

AUD = Program Start Date + 4 years + 30 days to depart

Students with authorized OPT

AUD = EAD (Employment Authorization Document) end date + 30 days

ADMIT UNTIL DATE

Who Determines My Admit Until Date (AUD)?

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

Students entering the United States receive their Admit Until Date (AUD) from the CBP at the time of admission into the country. The AUD will be recorded on the Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record), which can be accessed electronically on the official CBP website.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

Students who have an approved Extension of Stay (EOS) or a change to F-1 status will receive their new AUD from USCIS. In this case, the date will appear on the Form I-94 attached to the Form I-797A (Notice of Action).

Practical Example

A student enters the United States for the first time with an F-1 visa. Upon going through immigration, the CBP sets their Admit Until Date and records this information on their Form I-94. Later, if they apply for and receive an Extension of Stay, the new AUD will be issued by USCIS, not by the CBP.

ADMIT UNTIL DATE

Where Can I Check My Admit Until Date (AUD)?

Form I-94 Online (CBP)

Students admitted to the United States can access their Form I-94 electronically on the CBP's official website. It is recommended to check the I-94 after each entry into the country to confirm the registered AUD.

Form I-797A (USCIS)

Students who had an approved Extension of Stay (EOS) or change of status will find their new AUD on the paper Form I-94 attached to the Form I-797A (Notice of Action) issued by USCIS.

CHAPTER 4

Extensions of Stay (EOS)

Everything you need to know about how to apply, when to apply, and what to expect from the Extension of Stay process for F-1 students.

EXTENSIONS OF STAY

Which Agency Is Responsible for the Extension of Stay Process?

The Extension of Stay (EOS) process is administered by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Although the Designated School Official (DSO) plays an important role in preparing the necessary documentation, the final decision on whether to approve an Extension of Stay rests solely with USCIS.

The DSO does not have the authority to approve or deny an EOS — their role is to provide the recommendation and required documentation so that the student can submit a formal request to USCIS.

Practical Example

A student needs more time to complete their program and applies for an Extension of Stay. The DSO will provide the necessary documentation and recommendations in SEVIS, but it is USCIS that will review the request and decide whether the extension is approved.

EXTENSIONS OF STAY

Do I Need to Work with My DSO Before Applying for an EOS?

Yes. Before applying for an Extension of Stay with USCIS, the student must work with the Designated School Official (DSO) at their institution. The DSO is responsible for essential steps that precede the formal application to USCIS.

EXTENSIONS OF STAY

Is an EOS the Same as a Program Extension?

Program Extension

This is the procedure carried out by the DSO to update the Program End Date in SEVIS when the student needs more time to complete their program due to an academic reason or justifiable circumstance. It is an internal administrative action taken by the institution within the SEVIS system.

Extension of Stay (EOS)

This is the process by which the student requests authorization from USCIS to remain in the United States beyond their Admit Until Date (AUD), whether to complete the current program, begin a new program, or participate in OPT or STEM OPT.

Practical Example

The student needs four more months to complete their course. The DSO updates the Program End Date in SEVIS and issues a new Form I-20 (Program Extension). Since the new date goes beyond the Admit Until Date, the student must also file an Extension of Stay (EOS) with USCIS. These are two separate processes, although they typically occur together.

EXTENSIONS OF STAY

How Do I Apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS)?

The student must apply for an Extension of Stay with the USCIS using Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status). To do so, the following will be required:

1

Complete and submit Form I-539

With all required documentation, including the new Form I-20 issued by the DSO.

2

Pay the applicable fee

Check the current amount on the official USCIS website before submitting your application.

3

Appear for biometrics

When requested by USCIS, appear for biometric data collection.

Important Deadline

USCIS must receive the application before the Admit Until Date (AUD) expires. Additional information about the process is available on the official USCIS website.

EXTENSIONS OF STAY

Do My F-2 Dependents Also Need an EOS?

Yes. Dependents with F-2 status will also need to regularize their situation if they wish to remain in the United States beyond the Admit Until Date (AUD). They may:

  • Be included in the same EOS application as the principal F-1 student; or
  • File a separate EOS application with USCIS on their own.

In either case, the authorized period for the dependent may not exceed the authorized period for the principal F-1 student.

Practical Example

The student applies for an Extension of Stay to complete their academic program. Their spouse and child have F-2 status. They may be included in the same EOS application or file separate applications, as permitted by USCIS.

EXTENSIONS OF STAY

When Should I Apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS)?

Before the AUD

USCIS must receive the Form I-539 before the expiration of the Admit Until Date (AUD).

Up to 180 Days Early

The application may be filed up to 180 days in advance of the AUD expiration.

Watch the Grace Period

Students who file during the final 30-day grace period may not engage in certain work activities, such as CPT, on-campus, or off-campus employment.

Practical Example: The student's Admit Until Date is July 31, 2028. They may submit their EOS application approximately 180 days before that date. If they wait until the final grace period to file, they may face restrictions related to work authorization.

EXTENSIONS OF STAY

My Program Lasts More Than Four Years. Will I Need an EOS?

Yes. Students whose Program End Date exceeds the maximum period initially authorized will need to apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS) if they need to remain in the United States beyond their Admit Until Date (AUD) to complete their program.

This means that long-duration programs — such as doctoral programs, medical residency programs, or other courses lasting more than four years¹ — will require the student to periodically request a renewal of their authorized stay through the EOS process with USCIS.

Practical Example

A student begins a doctoral program with an expected duration of five years. Since the initial admission typically cannot exceed four years¹, the student will need to apply for an Extension of Stay before their Admit Until Date expires in order to complete the final year of the program.

¹ Note: English language programs (ESL), such as the one offered by Antares Metrowest, have a maximum admission period of up to 24 months — therefore, students in such programs are not subject to the four-year limit, but may still need an EOS if the program exceeds 24 months.

EXTENSIONS OF STAY

Do I Need an EOS to Start a Program at a Higher Educational Level?

Yes. A student who wishes to enroll in a new program of study at a higher educational level after completing their current course must:

  1. Obtain a new Form I-20 issued by the institution for the new program of study; and
  1. Timely file an Extension of Stay (EOS) with USCIS, submitting the new Form I-20 as part of the required documentation.

The EOS must be filed before the expiration of the current Admit Until Date (AUD).

Practical Example

After completing an English language program, the student is accepted into an undergraduate program. To remain lawfully in the United States and begin this new program, they must obtain a new Form I-20 issued by the institution and file an Extension of Stay with USCIS before their current Admit Until Date expires.

EXTENSIONS OF STAY

What Happens After I Apply for an Extension of Stay?

After submitting the Extension of Stay (EOS) application, USCIS will review the request to verify whether the student is eligible for the extension and whether they have maintained the conditions of their F-1 status.

During this review, USCIS may:

  • Conduct background and security checks;
  • Review all submitted documentation to confirm the student meets the requirements;
  • Issue a Request for Evidence (RFE) requesting additional documentation, if necessary.

Additional information about the process is available on the official USCIS website.

Practical Example

The student applies for an Extension of Stay to complete their undergraduate program. After receiving the application, USCIS will review the submitted documents, verify that the student maintained their F-1 status, and decide whether the extension can be approved.

EXTENSIONS OF STAY

Can I Travel While My EOS Is Pending?

Yes. Students may travel internationally while their Extension of Stay (EOS) request is pending with USCIS. However, there are important consequences to consider:

Stay alert to USCIS requests

If USCIS issues a Request for Evidence (RFE) while the student is outside the US, the response deadline continues to run. Failure to comply may result in the denial of the request.

New CBP admission may terminate the EOS

Upon returning, if CBP grants a new period of admission that replaces the previously authorized period, USCIS may consider the EOS request abandoned, as the student has already received new authorization to remain from CBP.

CBP-authorized period

Upon returning, CBP may admit the student for the remainder of the previously authorized period or grant a new period based on the documentation presented, such as an updated Form I-20.

EXTENSIONS OF STAY

What Happens if USCIS Approves My EOS?

If USCIS approves the application, the student and their F-2 dependents — when included in the petition — will receive a new Admit Until Date (AUD) corresponding to the additional period authorized to complete the program of study or practical training, subject to the limits established by regulation.

USCIS will issue a new Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) in paper form, attached to the Form I-797A (Notice of Action), containing the new Admit Until Date. The student must keep this document carefully, as it is the official proof of their new authorized period of stay.

Practical Example

After reviewing the petition, USCIS approves the student's Extension of Stay. They receive a Form I-797A containing a new Form I-94, which reflects their new Admit Until Date authorizing their continued stay in the United States.

EXTENSIONS OF STAY

What Happens if USCIS Denies My EOS?

If USCIS denies the application, the student and their F-2 dependents must leave the United States by the Admit Until Date originally granted — or immediately, if that date has already expired.

The denial of an EOS is a serious situation that can have consequences for future visa applications or admissions to the United States. Therefore, it is essential to begin the extension process with sufficient advance notice and ensure that all required documentation is correct and complete.

Practical Example

The student applies for an Extension of Stay, but USCIS concludes that they do not meet the requirements for the extension. In that case, they must leave the United States within the authorized period or immediately, if that period has already ended.

EXTENSIONS OF STAY

Where to Get More Information About the EOS Process?

Detailed information about the Extension of Stay (EOS) process and how to complete the Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status) is available on the official website of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Before submitting your application, it is essential to check the USCIS website for:

  • The most recent version of Form I-539;
  • The required documents for the application;
  • The updated applicable fees; and
  • The detailed instructions for the process.

Practical Example

Before submitting the application, the student visits the official USCIS website to check the latest version of Form I-539, the required documents, the applicable fees, and the updated instructions for the process.

EXTENSIONS OF STAY

Can I Get a New Period of Stay by Traveling Outside the US?

Yes. As an alternative to the Extension of Stay process with USCIS, F-1 students with a valid visa may choose to travel outside the United States and, upon returning, request a new admission from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

If deemed eligible for admission, they may receive a new Form I-94 with a new authorized period of stay, based on updated SEVIS information and the documentation presented. The final decision depends on CBP's analysis at the time of entry.

It is important to keep in mind that this option is subject to CBP's discretion — there is no guarantee that a new period of admission will be granted.

Practical Example

Instead of requesting an Extension of Stay from USCIS, the student decides to travel to their home country during the break. Upon returning to the United States with a new Form I-20 and other required documents, CBP may grant a new period of admission, provided the student is deemed eligible for entry into the country.

CHAPTER 5

Maintaining F-1 Status

Learn about the new restrictions on changing educational level, changing programs, and transferring institutions for F-1 students.

STATUS MAINTENANCE

Can I Change My Educational Level While Studying in the U.S.?

The new rule establishes that F-1 students must make academic progress during their stay in the United States. This means there are limitations on changing degree levels (academic level), such as English → Undergraduate → Master's → Doctorate.

During the Program

  • If you are enrolled in a program below graduate level (such as an English course, high school, vocational program, associate degree, or undergraduate degree), you may not change to another educational level during the first year, unless you receive exceptional authorization from SEVP.
  • If you are enrolled in a master's or doctoral program, you may not change academic levels during the program, except in exceptional situations approved by SEVP.

After Completing the Program

After completing a program, you may only advance to a higher academic level.

STATUS MAINTENANCE

After Completing My Program, Can I Start a New One at a Different Level?

Yes. After completing your program of study, you may begin a new program as long as it is at a higher educational level. The new rule expressly prohibits:

  • Enrolling in a program at a lower level than the one previously completed; or
  • Enrolling in another program at the same educational level.

This rule aims to ensure that F-1 students continuously advance in their academic path in the United States, without using the student visa to repeat the same educational level.

Practical Example

After completing an Associate Degree, the student may enroll in a Bachelor's Degree. However, after completing a Bachelor's Degree, they may not start another Bachelor's Degree simply to study a different area. To remain in compliance with the new rule, they must advance to a higher-level program, such as a Master's Degree.

STATUS MAINTENANCE

Can I Transfer to Another School While Studying in the US?

Yes, however there are restrictions. The new rule imposes significant limitations on transfers between institutions:

Programs below graduate level

May not transfer to another school during the first year of the program. They must complete the first year at the institution that initially issued their Form I-20, unless SEVP authorizes an exception due to exceptional circumstances.

Graduate-level programs or higher

May not transfer at any point during the program, except when SEVP authorizes an exception due to exceptional circumstances.

Practical Example: A student begins an English course at a SEVP-certified school and, after four months, decides to move to another institution solely out of personal preference. Under the new rule, this transfer will not be permitted during the first year of the program, unless an exception is authorized by SEVP.

What About After the First Year, Without Having Completed the Program?

Yes. After completing the first year of the program, the student may transfer to another institution even without having completed the current program, as long as they follow the standard SEVIS transfer procedures.

This means that a student in a two-year program, for example, can complete the first year at one school and transfer to another institution to complete the second year — without needing special authorization from SEVP.

Practical Example: 2-Year Program

A student is enrolled in a 2-year English program at School A. After completing the first year, they decide to transfer to School B to complete the second year. This transfer is permitted, since the student has already completed the first year of the program. The DSO at School A must initiate the transfer process in SEVIS, and the DSO at School B will issue a new Form I-20.

Other Permitted Examples

  • Student in a 2-year Associate Degree → transfers after the 1st year to another institution to complete the 2nd year
  • Student in a 4-year Bachelor's Degree → transfers after the 1st year to another university for the remaining years
  • Student in an 18-month English course → transfers after 12 months to another English school
STATUS MAINTENANCE

What Are Examples of Exceptional Circumstances for a Transfer?

The final rule defines exceptional circumstances as rare and exceptional events, beyond the control of the school and the student, that prevent a SEVP-certified institution from continuing to offer the approved program of study. Some examples include:

Closure of the educational institution

The school permanently ceases its operations.

Prolonged inability to hold in-person classes

Caused by a natural disaster or emergency that prevents the school from operating.

Elementary or secondary school student

Who needs to change schools due to a documented necessity.

Other exceptional situations

That meet the criteria established by SEVP on a case-by-case basis.

Practical Example

A school suffers severe damage caused by a hurricane and is unable to offer in-person classes for an extended period. In this situation, SEVP may authorize the transfer of students to another certified institution, allowing them to continue their studies.

STATUS MAINTENANCE

Can I Change My Major While Studying in the U.S.?

Yes, however there are important restrictions that vary depending on the program level:

Programs below graduate level

Students may not change their major during the first year of studies, unless an exception is authorized by SEVP.

Graduate-level programs or higher

Students may not change their major at any point during the program, except with SEVP authorization.

When does this rule become important?

It becomes relevant when a student enters an academic degree program, such as an undergraduate or graduate program. For example, a student enrolled in a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration may face restrictions when attempting to change their major to Computer Science, in accordance with DHS regulations.

Practical Example

A student completes their English program at Antares Metrowest and is accepted into a university to study Business Administration. After starting the degree, they wish to switch to Engineering. In this case, the change may be subject to restrictions under the new DHS regulations.

STATUS MAINTENANCE

What Is the Process to Request an Exception from SEVP?

When an exceptional circumstance occurs, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) may, at its discretion and in coordination with the affected schools, allow the transfer of student records to another SEVP-certified institution.

It is important to understand that this exception is limited and is intended exclusively to preserve continuity of studies in emergency situations. It does not automatically guarantee a transfer nor does it authorize a change in the student's educational objective.

Students must request this exception through their Designated School Official (DSO), who will coordinate the process with SEVP.

Practical Example

The school where the student is enrolled permanently closes its operations. The student must contact the institution's DSO. The DSO will work together with SEVP to verify whether the situation qualifies as an exceptional circumstance and, if approved, the transfer of the SEVIS record to another certified school may be authorized.

CHAPTER 6

Departure Period from the U.S.

Understand the new deadline to leave the United States after the program ends and how it relates to the Admit Until Date.

DEPARTURE PERIOD

What Is the New Period to Leave the US After Program Completion?

F-1 students now have 30 days to leave the United States after completing their program of study or their Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM OPT.

This deadline was reduced from the previous rule, which granted 60 days to leave the country after program completion. The change represents a significant shift in student departure planning.

Within these 30 days, the student must:

  • Leave the United States;
  • Begin another process that allows them to remain legally in the country, when applicable; or
  • Take another action authorized by immigration law.

Practical Example

The student completes their program of study on May 15, 2028. After that date, they will have 30 days to leave the United States, begin a process that allows their legal stay, or take another authorized action.

DEPARTURE PERIOD

Is the 30-Day Departure Period Already Included in My AUD?

Yes. The 30-day period designated for departing the United States is already included in the student's Admit Until Date (AUD). This means that the date indicated on Form I-94 already represents the last day the student is legally authorized to remain in the United States.

There is no additional period after that date. Many students make the mistake of thinking they can add 30 days to the AUD — this is incorrect. The AUD already incorporates the departure period into its calculation.

Practical Example

The student's Form I-94 shows an Admit Until Date (AUD) of June 30, 2028. This means the student may legally remain in the United States through June 30, 2028, inclusive. The 30-day departure period has already been factored into the calculation of that date. Therefore, adding an additional 30 days after the AUD is not permitted.

Summary of Key Changes for F-1 Students

Here is a consolidated summary of the main changes introduced by the DHS final rule for F-1 students:

Admit Until Date (AUD)

Replacement of the D/S system with a fixed period of stay beginning September 15, 2026.

Maximum of 4 Years / 24 Months for English

Maximum admission period limited to four years (plus 30 days upon arrival and 30 days for departure). For English language programs, the limit is 24 months.

Extension of Stay (EOS)

Required to remain beyond the AUD, begin a new program, or continue OPT/STEM OPT beyond the authorized period.

Mandatory Progression

Restrictions on changes to educational level, course (major), and institution transfers during the program.

30-Day Departure Period

Timeframe reduced from 60 to 30 days after program completion — already included in the AUD calculation.

F-2 Dependents

Also affected by the new rules, with AUD tied to the authorized period of the primary student.

Next Steps: How to Prepare for the New Rule

If you are an F-1 student or school advisor, there are concrete measures you can take now to ensure compliance with the new regulation.

01

Check your Form I-94 regularly

Visit the CBP website after each entry into the U.S. to confirm your Admit Until Date.

02

Maintain communication with your DSO

Before any change — in course, level, institution, or program — consult your school's DSO.

03

Plan your EOS in advance

If you need an extension, start the process up to 180 days before your AUD.

04

Stay aware of transition rules

If you are already in the country on D/S, understand how the new rule will impact your next international trip.

Frequently Asked Questions About the New F-1 Rule

Find quick answers to your most common questions about the changes in F-1 student regulations in the U.S.

General

What does the Final Rule mean for F-1 students?

Starting September 15, 2026, F-1 students will be admitted for a fixed period of stay, indicated by an Admit Until Date (AUD) on Form I-94. Previously, admission was for "Duration of Status (D/S)." This fixed period will equal the duration of the program on Form I-20 (up to 4 years), plus 30 days for arrival and 30 days for departure.

How long will F-1 students be admitted under the Final Rule?

Generally, admission will be for the duration of the study program (up to 4 years), as stated on Form I-20, plus 30 days for arrival and 30 days for departure. This end date will be specified as the Admit Until Date (AUD) on your Form I-94.

Are there additional limitations on the admission period for F-1 students?

Yes. Students in English language programs are limited to 24 months of admission (plus 30 days for departure). Students at public schools (including charter schools) are limited to a maximum of 12 months. Border commuter students will continue to receive a fixed admission date.

What if F-1 students need additional time to complete their program?

Students who need extra time to complete their program, start a new one, or participate in OPT/STEM OPT must apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS) with USCIS. The alternative is to leave the U.S. and seek new admission upon re-entry.

Are F-2 dependents also affected by the Final Rule?

Yes. F-2 dependents will also receive a fixed admission period, which cannot exceed the authorized period for the principal F-1 student. They will also need to apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS) to remain beyond their Admit Until Date (AUD).

When does the Final Rule take effect?

The Final Rule takes effect on September 15, 2026. Until that date, F-1 students will continue to be admitted under "Duration of Status (D/S)." Starting September 15, 2026, new and current students entering the U.S. will be admitted for a fixed period.

Transition Period

As a current student in D/S, do I need to apply for an Extension of Stay?

No. Students currently in the U.S. in D/S may remain until the Program End Date on Form I-20, or the end of OPT/STEM OPT (if valid on the rule's effective date), but no later than November 14, 2030 (4 years + 60 departure days). To remain beyond that date, you must apply for an EOS or travel and seek re-admission.

As a current student in D/S, can I travel after the Final Rule takes effect?

Yes, you may continue to travel. However, starting September 15, 2026, upon returning to the U.S., you may be admitted for a new fixed admission period equal to the Program End Date on your Form I-20 (maximum of 4 years plus 30 departure days).

Admit Until Date (AUD)

What does the Admit Until Date (AUD) mean?

The Admit Until Date (AUD) is the maximum period of admission for a nonimmigrant in the U.S. and the last authorized day of stay. F-1 students may not legally remain in the U.S. beyond their AUD and must depart or take action to maintain status before it expires.

Is my AUD different from the Program End Date on Form I-20?

Yes, the AUD may differ. For programs shorter than 4 years, the AUD is the Program End Date plus 30 departure days. For longer programs, the AUD is 4 years from the Program Start Date plus 30 days. For OPT, the AUD is the employment end date on the EAD plus 30 days.

Who determines my Admit Until Date (AUD)?

The AUD is determined by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at a port of entry and recorded on Form I-94. For approved extensions of stay or change of status, the AUD is set by USCIS and appears on the Form I-94 attached to Form I-797A.

Where can I find my Admit Until Date (AUD)?

You can find your AUD on your Form I-94, accessible on the CBP website. If the AUD was approved through an Extension of Stay or change of status to F-1, it will be on the Form I-94 attached to Form I-797A.

Extensions of Stay (EOS) for F-1 Students

Which agency is responsible for the Extension of Stay process?

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), within the Department of Homeland Security, is responsible for adjudicating Extension of Stay (EOS) applications.

Do I need to work with my DSO before applying for an EOS?

Yes. To apply for an EOS to continue your program, start a new one, or engage in OPT/STEM OPT, you must work with your Designated School Official (DSO). The DSO will recommend the EOS in SEVIS, update the Program End Date (if necessary), and provide an updated Form I-20 with the recommendation.

Is an EOS the same as a Program Extension?

No. A Program Extension is the process by which the DSO recommends extending the Program End Date in SEVIS for academic reasons or extenuating circumstances. An Extension of Stay (EOS) is the process by which F-1 students request additional time from USCIS to complete their studies or OPT/STEM OPT.

How do I apply for an EOS?

You must complete and submit Form I-539, "Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status," with all required documentation and fees, and provide biometrics. USCIS must receive your I-539 before your authorized admission period (AUD) expires. Check the USCIS website for detailed instructions.

Do my dependents need to apply for an EOS?

Yes. F-2 dependents may be included in the principal F-1 student's Extension of Stay (EOS) application or file their own EOS application.

When should I apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS)?

You must apply for an EOS, and USCIS must receive it, before your Admit Until Date (AUD) expires. You may begin the application process up to 180 days before your AUD expires. Note: applying within the 30-day departure period may prevent you from starting or continuing employment (on-campus, off-campus, CPT).

My program lasts more than four years. Will I need an EOS?

Yes. Students with a Program End Date exceeding four years who need additional time beyond their Admit Until Date to complete their current program must apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS) and provide all supporting documentation.

Do I need an EOS to start a program at a higher educational level?

Yes. Students wishing to pursue a degree at a new, higher educational level must obtain a Form I-20 for the new program and then timely file an Extension of Stay (EOS) with USCIS, including the new Form I-20.

What happens after I apply for an Extension of Stay?

After filing, USCIS will review your eligibility and compliance, conducting background and security checks. They will examine the evidence to ensure you qualify for the extension. Visit the USCIS website for more information about the EOS process.

Can I travel while my EOS is pending?

Yes, you may travel internationally. However, make sure you are available to respond to Requests for Evidence (RFE) from USCIS, as failure to respond may result in denial. Upon returning, CBP may re-admit you for the remainder of the authorized period or grant a new period based on updated documentation, such as an extended I-20.

What happens if USCIS approves my EOS?

If approved, you and your F-2 dependents will receive an updated Admit Until Date reflecting the additional time (not exceeding four years). USCIS will issue a new printed Form I-94 with the updated AUD, attached to the bottom of Form I-797A.

What happens if USCIS denies my EOS?

If denied, you and your F-2 dependents must leave the U.S. in accordance with your original Admit Until Date, or immediately if that date has already passed.

Where can I get more information about the EOS process?

Visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for additional information about the Extension of Stay process and how to complete Form I-539, "Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status."

Can I obtain a new period of stay by traveling outside the U.S.?

Yes. F-1 students with valid visas who choose to travel may request admission from CBP at a port of entry and receive a new Form I-94 with a new admission period, based on their updated SEVIS record and supporting documentation, subject to eligibility and admissibility requirements.

Maintaining F-1 Status

Can I change my educational level while studying in the U.S.?

It depends. Students in programs below the graduate level may not change levels during the first year unless SEVP authorizes an exception. Students at the graduate level or above may not change levels at any time. It is also prohibited to change to a lower educational level or to the same level after completing a program.

After completing my program, can I start a new one at another level?

Yes, but you must enroll in a new study program at a higher educational level. Enrolling in a program at a lower or equivalent educational level is prohibited.

Can I change my major while studying in the U.S.?

Yes, but there are restrictions. Students in programs below the graduate level may not change their major during the first year, except with SEVP authorization. Students at the graduate level or above may not change their major at any point in the program.

Can I transfer to another school while studying in the U.S.?

Yes, but with restrictions. Students in programs below the graduate level may not transfer in the first year unless SEVP authorizes an exception. Students at the graduate level or above may not transfer at any time, except under SEVP authorization due to extenuating circumstances.

U.S. Departure Period

What is the new period to leave the U.S. after completing a program?

F-1 students now have 30 days to leave the U.S. after completing their study program, OPT, or STEM OPT. This is a reduced period compared to the previous 60 days.

Is the 30-day departure period included in my AUD?

Yes. The 30-day departure period is already included in the student's Admit Until Date (AUD).