One of the most significant changes to the F-1 and J-1 immigration framework in decades takes effect on September 15, 2026. The Department of Homeland Security is replacing “Duration of Status” with a fixed-period admission system for F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and I visa holders. For students and scholars who fall out of status as a result of missed deadlines under the new system, our removal defense practice page explains what options may exist.

The information on this page is general. It is not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an immigration attorney or your designated school official about the facts of your situation.

What Is Duration of Status?

For decades, F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and I visa holders (representatives of foreign information media) were admitted to the United States for “Duration of Status,” abbreviated D/S on their Form I-94. This meant their authorized stay was tied to the length of their academic program or authorized activity rather than a specific calendar date. A student whose program ran through May 2027 could remain lawfully through the end of that program without a separately scheduled I-94 expiration.

That framework ends September 15, 2026.

What Changes Under the New Rule

DHS published the final rule at 91 FR 44976 on July 17, 2026. Beginning September 15, 2026, F, J, and I visa holders will be admitted for fixed periods rather than Duration of Status.

Under the new framework:

F-1 students will be admitted for the period of their program of study as listed on their Form I-20, up to a maximum of four years, plus a 30-day arrival grace period and a 30-day departure grace period.
J-1 exchange visitors and I representatives will be subject to similar fixed admission periods.
To remain in the United States beyond the authorized admission period, visa holders must file an extension of stay application with USCIS, submit biometrics, and demonstrate continued eligibility.

In practical terms, maintaining lawful status will now depend on monitoring I-94 expiration dates, filing extension requests before those dates, and completing USCIS adjudications that did not previously exist for these categories.

What Happens to People Already on D/S

DHS established a transition rule for F, J, and I visa holders currently in the United States on Duration of Status.

Individuals already in D/S status when the rule takes effect may remain until the earlier of two dates: the end date of their current program, or four years from the effective date (September 15, 2030). After that point, continuing to study or work in the United States will require an extension of stay filed with USCIS.

This transition period gives currently enrolled students and visitors time to adjust to the new system. The planning window is not unlimited, and those approaching program completion dates should begin coordinating now.

What Students and Exchange Visitors Need to Do

The most important immediate step is to understand your current I-94 and what your authorized admission period will be under the new framework. Students whose programs extend beyond four years from the effective date should work with their designated school official (DSO) and, where warranted, with an immigration attorney to plan for an extension filing before the I-94 expires.

Key consequences of the change:

Missing an I-94 deadline results in falling out of status, which carries serious consequences for future immigration benefits.
Extension applications require lead time; they should be filed well before the authorized period ends, not at the deadline.
Changes to academic programs, including transfers, degree changes, and extended research timelines, may require coordinated action to update the I-20 and, in some cases, file an extension.

The new rule leaves less room for the delays that are simply part of academic life. A dissertation defense rescheduled, a medical leave, a research project that runs longer than expected: these now carry immigration consequences that did not arise in the same way under Duration of Status.

What Universities and Institutions Need to Know

Universities, hospitals, research institutions, exchange sponsors, and employers hosting F or J visa holders should review compliance procedures now. Designated school officials and responsible officers should update their student and scholar populations on the new framework, audit I-94 records, and establish protocols for monitoring upcoming expiration dates and filing extensions before deadlines arrive.

The responsibility for supporting international students and exchange visitors in maintaining lawful status becomes considerably more complex as the framework shifts from program-based to deadline-based.

A Note on Timing

This information pertains to a regulatory change taking effect September 15, 2026. If you are reading this after that date, the status described here is already in effect, and this post should not be treated as a guide to the current transition period.

Contact Strasser Asatrian LLC to discuss how the new I-94 framework applies to your specific situation.

Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances. Nothing on this page is legal advice for your specific situation.

Duration of Status Ends September 15: What F-1 and J-1 Visa Holders Must Know