Office of International Services

Duration of Status Rule Change

Last Updated August 3, 2026

This page is based on the July 17, 2026 Department of Homeland Security (DHS) final rule, “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,” and includes guidance tailored to USC F-1/J-1 students and J-1 scholars. The final rule is currently scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026. These FAQs will be updated periodically as additional information and implementation guidance becomes available.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently published a final rule that changes how F-1/J-1 students, J-1 scholars and their dependents are admitted to the United States, maintain their status and extend their stay. Beginning on September 15, 2026, most individuals entering the U.S. in these visa classifications will receive a fixed period of admission rather than being admitted for “Duration of Status (D/S).”  

This is a significant change to longstanding F-1 and J-1 immigration regulations, and we understand that many members of our international community may have questions about what it means for them. The final rule does not prevent you from beginning or continuing your USC program or academic appointment in the Fall 2026 semester.   

As the rule is extensive and implementation guidance from federal agencies is still evolving, we will continue to review the rule and expand this page as additional details become available. We have created these FAQs to provide an overview of what we know today, and we recommend you check this page periodically to receive the most up-to-date information. 

We recognize immigration changes can create concern and uncertainty. Please know that USC remains committed to supporting our international students and scholars as we navigate this transition together. In addition to the guidance provided by the Office of International Services (OIS), students and scholars are encouraged to explore USC’s broader campus support resources, including immigration, legal, wellness and student assistance available through the USC Campus Resources page.

Join us for an informative webinar on the DHS Final Rule. This session will provide a high-level overview of the rule, help participants better understand the key changes, and offer practical guidance to support the university community.

These FAQs summarize the DHS final rule and are intended for general informational purposes. Individual circumstances vary, and guidance may continue to evolve as the final rule is implemented. 

Frequently Asked Questions

The final rule contains transition provisions that allow current and incoming Fall 2026 F-1/J-1 students and J-1 scholars admitted for Duration of Status (D/S) to adjust to the new immigration procedures. This section provides information about how you might be affected, what actions you may need to take, and how international travel after September 15 impacts the transition from D/S to your new Admit Until Date (AUD). 

  • No immediate action is needed at this time as the final rule does not go into effect until September 15, 2026. If you enter the U.S. prior to the final rule’s effective date, you will be admitted under Duration of Status (D/S).

  • If you are admitted under Duration of Status (D/S) and do not leave the United States prior to September 15, 2026, you may remain in the U.S. up to the Program End Date on your Form I-20 or DS-2019 or the end of your Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), STEM OPT Extension (STEM OPT) or Academic Training (AT) that is valid on the final rule’s effective date, not to exceed November 14, 2030 (four years, plus a 60-day departure period). 

    If you enter the U.S. on or after September 15, 2026, you will be admitted for a fixed Admit Until Date (AUD).  

    Read more in the Admit Until Date (AUD) section below.  

  • The final rule does not prevent you from beginning or continuing your USC program or academic appointment in Fall 2026. The U.S. government, however, has revised its requirements for extension requests.

    Read more in the Extension of Stay (EOS) section below. 

  • There are two possibilities if you need additional time to complete your program of study or academic appointment, begin a new program of study or academic appointment, or to engage in Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), STEM OPT Extension (STEM OPT) or Academic Training (AT):

    1. Apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS) with USCIS, or  
    2. Depart the U.S. and obtain a new period of admission from CBP upon reentry. Readmission will require a valid passport, a valid F-1 or J-1 visa, and an updated Form I-20 or DS-2019 and is subject to CBP’s standard procedure at the port of entry. 

    Read more in the Extension of Stay (EOS) section below. 

  • Yes, you can continue to travel internationally. As of September 15, 2026, however, when you return to the U.S., you will be admitted for a new fixed period of admission rather than Duration of Status (D/S). This period will generally be based on the Program End Date on your Form I-20 or DS-2019, up to a maximum of four years (plus a 30-day departure period).

  • If you are currently abroad, you should plan your return to the U.S. when the semester begins on August 24, 2026. If you return to the U.S. before September 15, 2026, when the final rule takes effect, you will be admitted under current Duration of Status (D/S) provisions.

  • You can study abroad or do research abroad for Fall 2026. However, if you re-enter the U.S. after September 15, 2026, you will be admitted with a fixed Admit Until Date (AUD) based on your current Form I-20 or DS-2019 program end date, plus a 30-day departure period.

The DHS’s final rule changes how F-1/J-1 students and J-1 scholars maintain and extend status in the U.S. This section provides an overview of the rule, including key changes, timelines and who is impacted. 

  • F-1/J-1 students and J-1 scholars were previously admitted to the U.S. for an unspecified period of time — known as Duration of Status — to pursue a full course of study or academic appointment at a SEVP-certified school or to engage in practical training following completion of their studies. This unspecified period of time was indicated on their Form I-94 “Arrival/Departure Record” in the field titled “Admit Until Date” (AUD) with a notation stating, “Duration of Status” or “D/S.” Students and scholars with a D/S notation could remain in the U.S. under D/S as long as they maintained their F-1/J-1 nonimmigrant status. 

    Beginning September 15, 2026, DHS will end D/S for F-1/J-1 students and J-1 scholars. Instead of being admitted for D/S, students and scholars will now be admitted until a fixed date or AUD listed on the I-94 arrival record when entering or re-entering the U.S. This period of admission cannot exceed a maximum of four years. The I-94 will now play a central role in determining how long you are authorized to remain in the U.S. You should check your I-94 for accuracy after every entry. 

    If your academic program or appointment is longer than four years, you will be required to either: 

    • apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS) to cover the remainder of your program or appointment; or  
    • depart and re-enter the U.S. with a new I-94 record.  
    • Effective September 15, 2026, F-1 students admitted or readmitted under the final rule have 30 days to depart the U.S. following completion of their program of study, Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM OPT Extension (STEM OPT) — reduced from the previous 60-day period. Students admitted under D/S before September 15, 2026 may retain a 60-day period.
    • The departure period for J-1 students and J-1 scholars has not changed. They still have 30 days to depart the U.S. following completion of their program of study, academic appointment or Academic Training (AT).

  • Please refer to the Academic Mobility Changes for F-1 Students section below.

One of the most significant changes in the final rule is the transition from admission under Duration of Status (D/S) to a fixed period with an Admit Until Date (AUD). This section explains what AUD means, how AUD differs from Program End Date and who determines AUD.

  • The AUD is a nonimmigrant’s maximum period of admission to the U.S. and is the last day a nonimmigrant is authorized to stay in the U.S. F-1/J-1 students or J-1 scholars cannot remain lawfully present in the U.S. beyond their AUD and must depart the U.S. or take action to maintain status before their AUD expires.

  • Yes, the AUD may be different than the Program End Date printed on Form I-20 or DS-2019. Typically:

    • For a program of study or academic appointment of four years or less: The AUD is the Program End Date, plus 30 days for departure.
    • For a program of study or academic appointment longer than four years: The AUD reflects a maximum four-year period of admission plus 30 days for departure.
    • For F-1 students engaging Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM OPT Extension (STEM OPT), the AUD is the employment end date on the EAD, plus 30 days for departure.
    • For J-1 students engaging in Academic Training (AT), the AUD is the AT end date listed on the DS-2019, plus 30 days for departure.

  • It depends: 

    • F-1/J-1 students or J-1 scholars traveling to the U.S. after September 15, 2026, will receive an AUD from CBP at a U.S. port of entry. The AUD will appear on F-1/J-1 students’ and J-1 scholars’ Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record, accessible from the Form I-94 website. 
    • F-1/J-1 students or J-1 scholars approved for an Extension of Stay (EOS) or change to F-1 status will receive an AUD from USCIS. The AUD will be on the Form I-94 attached to the Form I-797A “Notice of Action.”  

  • You can locate your AUD on your Form I-94 “Arrival/Departure Record,” accessible from the Form I-94 website. If you are approved for an Extension of Stay (EOS) or change of status to F-1, you can locate the AUD on the Form I-94 attached to the Form I-797A “Notice of Action.”

Under the final rule, some F-1/J-1 students and J-1 scholars may need to request an Extension of Stay (EOS) from USCIS to remain in the U.S. beyond their Admit Until Date (AUD). This section covers the difference between EOS and program extension, EOS eligibility requirements and how to apply for EOS.

  • An EOS is the process by which F-1/J-1 students or J-1 scholars apply to USCIS for additional time in the U.S. to (1) complete their program of study or academic appointment, (2) begin a new program of study or academic appointment, or (3) engage in Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), STEM OPT Extension (STEM OPT) or Academic Training (AT).

  • Although OIS will provide initial guidance, USCIS within DHS is responsible for adjudicating EOS applications. 

  • Yes, if you need additional time to (1) complete your current program of study or academic appointment, (2) begin a new program of study or academic appointment, or (3) engage in Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT), STEM OPT Extension (STEM OPT) or Academic Training (AT), you must consult with OIS before applying for an EOS.

    OIS will: 

    • Process a program extension in SEVIS, if needed 
    • Recommend an EOS in SEVIS  
    • Provide an updated Form I-20 or DS-2019 to be used to file for an EOS application with USCIS, providing all supporting documentation, and if applicable, apply for employment authorization with USCIS

  • No, they are not the same. 

    Previously, F-1/J-1 students or J-1 scholars who needed additional time based on a compelling academic reason or other qualifying circumstance could request a program extension through OIS. OIS reviewed each request, and if the individual met the eligibility requirements, issued an updated Form I-20 or DS-2019 with the revised program end date. 

    Under the final rule, you must still request a program extension through OIS so that an updated Form I-20 or DS-2019 can be issued for eligible individuals. However, issuance of the updated Form I-20 or DS-2019 alone is no longer sufficient. F-1/J-1 students or J-1 scholars must also submit an EOS application to USCIS for final approval. 

  • No, eligibility for a program extension — and the associated Extension of Stay (EOS) — is not automatic. OIS may recommend a program extension in SEVIS and issue an updated Form I-20 or DS-2019 only if the request meets applicable regulatory requirements. 

    Under the final rule, USCIS may approve an EOS to allow additional time to complete a program only if the student has continuously maintained status, is pursuing a full course of study, and demonstrates that the need for additional time is due to a compelling academic reason, a documented illness or medical condition, or circumstances beyond the student’s control. Delays resulting from academic probation, suspension, or a repeated inability or unwillingness to complete the program of study generally do not qualify for an EOS. 

  • You can apply for an EOS with USCIS by: 

    • Filing the Form I-539 “Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status,” along with all required documentation 
    • Paying the required fee 
    • Providing required biometrics 

    USCIS must receive your Form I-539 on or before your Admit Until Date (AUD). You should continue to monitor these FAQs for additional information and specific instructions about applying for an EOS. 

  • Yes, if you file an EOS using Form I-539 with USCIS, you will be required to pay USCIS filing fees. These non-refundable fees are set by the U.S. government and are subject to change. The current USCIS processing fee for Form I-539 online is $420 and by mail is $470. These fees are set by USCIS and are subject to change; always verify the current fee on the USCIS website before filing.

  • Yes, your F-2 and J-2 dependents can either be included on your EOS application or file their own EOS application. 

  • You must apply for an EOS, and USCIS must receive your Form I-539, before your Admit Until Date (AUD) expires. You may apply for an EOS up to 180 days before your AUD expires. 

    Be aware that if you file for an EOS within the 30-day departure period, you will not be able to begin or continue employment (e.g., on-campus employment, off-campus employment, curricular practical training or Academic Training [AT]).  

  • Yes, if your Program End Date is more than four years in the future and you need additional time beyond your Admit Until Date (AUD) to complete your current program of study or academic appointment, you must file an EOS with USCIS, providing all supporting documentation.

  • Yes, if you need additional time to complete your degree requirements or academic appointment, you must apply for an EOS. To be eligible for an EOS, you must: 

    • Demonstrate that the request is based on one of the following: a compelling academic reason (such as a change of major or research topic or unexpected research problems); documented illness or medical condition supported by appropriate medical documentation; or circumstances beyond your control (e.g., natural disaster, national health crisis, institutional closure). The final rule indicates that delays caused by academic probation, suspension, or repeated inability or unwillingness to complete the course of study will not be treated as acceptable bases for an extension. 
    • Request a recommendation for the EOS from OIS. This includes:  
      • Requesting a Program Extension in Trojan International. 
        • If eligible, OIS will recommend an EOS in SEVIS and email you an updated Form I-20 or DS-2019 with an extended Program End Date.  
    • File for an EOS with USCIS, providing all supporting documentation, including your updated Form I-20 or DS-2019. 

  • Yes, if you need additional time beyond your AUD to complete an authorized period of OPT, STEM OPT or AT, you must apply for an EOS. To be eligible for an EOS, you must:

    • Request a recommendation for the EOS from OIS. This includes:  
      • Requesting an OPT, STEM OPT or AT Form I-20 or DS-2019 in Trojan International. 
        • If eligible, OIS will recommend an EOS in SEVIS and email you an updated Form I-20 or DS-2019 endorsed for OPT, STEM OPT or AT.   
    • For F-1 students, file for an EOS with USCIS, providing all supporting documentation, and apply for employment authorization with USCIS.  
    • For J-1 students, file for an EOS with USCIS, providing all supporting documentation. No additional employment authorization with USCIS is required. 

  • Yes, if you want to pursue a degree at a new higher education level, you must: 

    • Receive a Form I-20 or DS-2019 for the new program of study. 
    • File for an EOS with USCIS, providing the Form I-20 or DS-2019 for the new program of study.  

  • After applying for an EOS, USCIS will review your application to ensure eligibility for an extension. Refer to the USCIS website for information about the EOS process. 

  • If you file a timely EOS application before your Admit Until Date (AUD) expires, DHS has indicated that certain employment authorization may continue while the application is pending. USCIS has not yet published guidance specifying which categories of F-1 employment are covered or for how long. Until USCIS clarifies, do not assume that on-campus employment, CPT or off-campus employment may continue past your AUD. Consult OIS before continuing any employment beyond your AUD. 

    However, if you file an EOS during the 30-day departure period, you must stop all employment while the EOS is pending and may only resume work if the extension is approved.  

  • Yes, you may travel internationally while your EOS application is pending with USCIS, but doing so carries risk. 

    Upon readmission to the U.S., CBP may admit you for the remainder of your previously authorized Program End Date or grant a new period of admission based on updated documentation, such as a new Form I-20 or DS-2019 reflecting an extended Program End Date. If you depart and seek admission using a Form I-20 or DS-2019 showing a program end date beyond your previously authorized admission period, USCIS may deem your EOS application abandoned. Any related employment authorization application would not be treated as abandoned. 

    DHS recommends carrying your Form I-797C receipt notice when traveling. Consult OIS before traveling with a pending EOS. 

  • Yes, if you have a valid visa and choose to travel, you may obtain a new AUD from CBP at a port of entry. Upon admission, you will receive a new Form I-94 “Arrival/Departure Record” with a new AUD based on your updated SEVIS record and supporting documentation, subject to eligibility and admissibility requirements. 

In addition to changing how F-1 students are admitted to the U.S., the final rule also modifies several aspects of maintaining F-1 status. This section provides guidance on new requirements for enrolling in a new program of study and transferring institutions. DHS has indicated that implementation may be delayed; OIS will provide more information once the effective date is confirmed.

  • It depends, effective September 15, 2026:

    F-1 undergraduate students will not be able to change educational levels during their first year of study, unless SEVP authorizes an exception for extenuating circumstances.  

    F-1 graduate students will not be able to change educational levels at any point during their program of study or academic appointment.  

    Additionally, you are prohibited from the following after completion of a program of study or academic appointment:

    • Changing to a program of study at a lower educational level (e.g., moving from a master’s program to a bachelor’s program); or 
    • Changing a program of study at the same educational level (e.g., moving from a bachelor’s program to a bachelor’s program).  

  • Yes, however, the new program must be at a higher education level. You are also prohibited from doing the following:

    • Enrolling in a program of study at a lower educational level (e.g., moving from a master’s program to a bachelor’s program). 
    • Enrolling in a program of study at the same educational level (e.g., moving from a bachelor’s program to a bachelor’s program).  

  • After September 15, 2026, F-1 undergraduate students will not be able to change their major during their first year of study, unless SEVP authorizes an exception for extenuating circumstances.

    F-1 graduate students will not be able to change their major at any point during their program of study, unless SEVP authorizes an exception for extenuating circumstances. The exception process is narrow and is administered by SEVP.  

  • Yes, however, there will be restrictions after September 15, 2026. Under the final rule: 

    F-1 undergraduate students cannot transfer to another school during their first year of a program of study and must complete their first year at the school that initially issued their Form I-20, unless SEVP authorizes an exception for extenuating circumstances. 

    F-1 graduate students cannot transfer at any point during their program of study, unless SEVP authorizes an exception for extenuating circumstances. 

Join us for an informative webinar on the DHS Final Rule. This session will provide a high-level overview of the rule, help participants better understand the key changes, and offer practical guidance to support the university community.

For F-1 and J-1 students:

  • Tuesday, August 18th, 3 p.m.
  • Tuesday, September 1st, 3 p.m.

Join Webinars Here

 

For J-1 Sponsoring Departments:

  • Tuesday, August 18, 1:00 PM

Zoom link will be provided upon registration.

 

For J-1 Exchange Visitors (includes categories of Short-term Scholars, Research Scholars, and Professors):

  • Thursday, August 20, 1:00 PM

Register here for the J-1 Exchange Visitor Webinar. Zoom link will be provided upon registration.

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