Effective September 15, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has finalized the new duration of status rule, which makes changes in the following areas:

• Duration of Stay (D/S)
• Academic Restrictions
• Transition Period

In the past, F-1/J-1 students, alumni, and J-1 scholars, and their F-2/J-2 dependent family members, were admitted to the U.S. for Duration of Status (D/S), meaning they could remain in the U.S. to complete their programs, usually the program end date on their Form I-20/DS-2019 and/or the end date of their authorized period of OPT/STEM OPT, plus a grace period of 60 days for F-1 students and 30 days for J-1 students, as long as they maintained status.

The new rule eliminates Duration of Status (D/S) and replaces it with a fixed calendar end date. This date is called the “Admit Until Date” (AUD). The AUD is the end date of the program (up to a maximum of 4 years) plus a grace period of 30 days.

Important: If a student remains in the U.S. beyond their AUD, they will be violating their status and may begin to accrue unlawful presence.

The new regulation also introduces new requirements and restrictions on changes of major/program, changes of education level, extensions, and transfers to new schools.

Students will generally have to file an Extension of Stay (EOS) application (Form I-539) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for extensions to complete their programs and to apply for OPT.

Extensions of stay (EOS) may be approved in limited circumstances, if appropriate, by applying for an EOS with DHS.

Undergraduate students will not be able to change their majors within the first year of study. Graduate students cannot change their major at any point during their program of study.

All students are prohibited from:

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

The transition provisions apply to current F-1/J-1 students, alumni, and J-1 scholars who are inside the U.S. with a Duration of Status (D/S) notation on their Form I-94 on or before September 14, 2026.

Important: If a student travels outside of the U.S. at any point on or after September 15, 2026, they will forfeit these transition benefits. Upon re-entry, they will be subject to the new rule and given a date-specific Admit Until Date (AUD) on their Form I-94.

If a student is eligible for the transition provisions:

• The Form I-94 will reflect “D/S” (Duration of Status) rather than a fixed Admit Until Date (AUD).
• An F-1 student will retain the 60-day grace period. A J-1 student will retain the 30-day grace period.
• The student may continue in their current academic program/academic year until:
  • Their current Form I-20/DS-2019 end date (up to a maximum of 4 years) plus the applicable grace period or
  • Their current OPT/STEM OPT EAD expiration date plus the applicable grace period.
• F-1 Students/Alumni who are eligible and submit their application to USCIS for Post-Completion OPT/STEM OPT on or before March 18, 2027, will be exempt from the requirement to submit a simultaneous Extension of Stay (EOS) application to USCIS.

Time Period of Status

What is D/S?

D/S, or ‘Duration of Status,’ means that the student is authorized to stay in the United States for as long as they lawfully maintain F-1/J-1 student status.  

What is an AUD?

AUD, or “Admit Until Date" is the exact final day that the student is legally allowed to stay in the United States. It is usually the end date of the student’s program (if less than 4 years) plus a 30-day departure period. It will be recorded on the student’s Form I-94 when they travel and re-enter the U.S on or after 9/15/26.

Does the new rule affect me if I am already in the U.S. as an F-1/J-1 student?

Yes, but not in the same way that it would if you were initially entering the U.S.  If you are already in the U.S., your status as D/S will continue, though your actual program end date will default to your Form I-20/DS-2019 end date plus a 30-day grace period or to four years, whichever is shorter.  

How can I find my status expiration date?

Customs and Border Protection issues a Form I-94 record whenever an F or J visa holder enters the U.S. You should download your Form I-94 each time you enter the U.S. and check your AUD. 

Will my current Form I-94 change from D/S immediately?

No. If you entered the U.S. before September 15, 2026, your Form I-94 will have the D/S notation. If you enter the U.S. on or after September 15, 2026, you will be readmitted with a date-specific AUD noted on your Form I-94.

What if I do not travel abroad after September 15, 2026?  

Your AUD will be your program end date plus 30 days or four years from your date of admission plus 30 days, whichever comes first.

What happens if I stay in the U.S. after my AUD and do not apply to extend my stay?

You would start accruing unlawful presence right away, which could lead to serious immigration consequences.

Extension of Stay

What if I need an extension from the program end date noted on my  Form I-20 to complete my degree?

If you need additional time to complete your program, either because of an academic extension, an application for Optional Practical Training (OPT), STEM OPT, or Academic Training, you must submit a Form I-20/DS-2019 Extension Request in the CISS Portal to receive a new Form I-20/DS-2019 with the extended program end date. You must then file an Extension of Stay application with USCIS. Alternatively, you could request an EOS Form I-20/DS-2019 and depart the U.S., and re-enter showing the extended form. To do this, you need a valid visa and NOT be on a travel ban or restriction list.

What if my degree program takes longer than four years (e.g., a PhD)?

You will need to apply to USCIS for an EOS by filing Form I-539. Extensions will be approved for the specific time needed to finish your program — not for another full four years. You may need to file multiple EOS applications during your degree program. Alternatively, you could request an extended Form I-20/DS-2019 and depart the U.S., and re-enter showing the extended form. To do this, you would need a valid visa, and NOT be on a travel ban or restriction list.

How much does the EOS application cost?

Online filing of the Form I-539 Extension of Stay (EOS) is listed on the USCIS Fee Schedule. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and find Form I-539 from the dropdown menu to view the current fee.

Do my dependents also have to file for an extension?

Yes. They may file along with you using theForm I-539A.

How long will the application for Extension of Stay take to be processed by USCIS?

Consult the USCIS processing times.  

Can I remain in the US while the EOS is pending?

Yes.

What are valid reasons for getting an extension approved by USCIS?

We currently interpret the new rule as stating that your CISS Advisor, in conjunction with your Academic Advisor, can determine if there are justifiable reasons for a program extension. These can include a medical issue, a change of major or research topic, or unexpected research problems. Unexpected research problems are those caused by an unexpected change in faculty advisor, needing to refine an investigatory topic based on initial research, research funding delays, and similar issues. USCIS may apply stricter standards and use its own discretion when determining if an extension of stay is warranted. USCIS should be the governing agency in determining eligibility for an EOS, and it can use agency discretion to determine if an extension is warranted.  

What are some reasons why an extension request may be denied by USCIS?

If program completion delays are due to compelling academic reasons. Delays including, but not limited to, those caused by academic probation or suspension or a student's repeated inability or unwillingness to complete his or her course of study, are not acceptable reasons for an extension; performance, failing classes, or otherwise failing to make normal academic progress, USCIS can deny an extension request. If you have exceeded the normally allowed time period for a given academic program, an extension may also be denied. Proof of sufficient financial resources for the additional time period will be required, and an application could be denied if funding is deemed insufficient. USCIS may review cases for fraud issues and violations of required non-immigrant intent, which requires F and J visa holders to maintain the intention of returning to their home country

I have dependents (e.g., spouse or children)-what do I need to know?  

Dependent visa statuses (F-2/J-2) will need to have extensions along with F-1/J-1. Dependents will need to be included in the EOS application with the principal F-1/ J-1 but should not have to file separate filing fees if their application accompanies the principal alien application.  

Travel And Grace/Departure Period

Is travel an option to extend my stay?

Yes, you can be readmitted to the U.S. with an extended Form I-20/DS-2019 and receive a Form I-94 with an AUD of your new end date plus a 30-day departure period. Students may apply for an EOS with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services if they wish to remain in the United States beyond the AUD, including if additional time is needed to complete their current program of study, begin a new program of study, or engage in post-completion OPT or STEM OPT. Alternatively, students may depart the United States and obtain a new period of admission from U.S. Customs and Border Protection upon reentry.

What changes are being made to the “grace period” for F-1 students?

The current 60-day grace period for F-1 students is reduced to a 30-day departure period. 

I am an F-1 student on OPT or STEM OPT, and I travel outside of the U.S., what will the AUD on my Form I-94 be upon re-entry to the U.S.?

If you are on OPT/STEM OPT and you travel outside the United States, you will be admitted until the end date of your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) plus a 30-day departure period.

What documents do I need to carry with me if I travel and re-enter the U.S. BEFORE September 15, 2026?

The new rule does not go into effect until September 15, 2026. Please refer to the CISS website Travel page for complete information.

Change of Program/Change of Degree Level/Transfers

For F-1 Students

Can I change my academic program?  

If you are an undergraduate student, you cannot change your program or major during your first academic year.  If you are a graduate student, you cannot change your program once you enroll. This also includes adding a second master’s degree.  Students can enroll in a dual degree program if both programs are listed on their Form I-20 when they first enter the U.S.

Can I change to a new degree program?  

You cannot start a program at the same or lower level after finishing one. You must move to a higher level. This only applies to degrees earned on or after September 15, 2026.

Can I pursue another degree at the same level?  

No. After completing a degree, students are only permitted to move to a higher degree level. Pursuing another degree at the same or lower level is not allowed. If you complete a degree before 9/15/26, you will be eligible to enroll in another same-level degree program.

Can I transfer schools or change my academic program?  

The new rule restricts this in certain circumstances. Undergraduate students may not transfer between schools or change programs within their first year of study unless SEVP grants an exception for extenuating circumstances. Graduate students are prohibited from changing programs or transferring to schools at any point during their degree.  

I am completing a master’s degree and have been admitted to a PhD program. Will I have to file a Form I-539 extension application with USCIS to start my new academic degree program?  

Yes. Changing your academic level to a higher degree program will require you to receive a new Form I-20 from CISS and to file an EOS with USCIS.  Alternatively, you could request an extended Form I-20, depart the U.S., and re-enter showing the extended form. To do this, you would have to have a valid visa and NOT be on a travel ban or restriction list.  

I am enrolled in an Advanced Standing Program. When I complete my undergraduate degree and start my graduate degree, will I have to apply for an EOS?

Yes, you will have to apply for an EOS or travel outside of the U.S.

Employment

Can I continue to work on-campus and participate in Curricular Practical Training (CPT) while my Extension of Stay application is pending?

Enrolled Students-If you are enrolled full-time, you can continue working on campus in your current position and previously authorized off-campus employment for up to 240 days beyond your program end date.  

Students Applying for OPT: If you are applying for OPT, you may remain in the U.S. while your Extension of Stay is being processed. You may not work until both your OPT and EOS applications are approved.  

Students Applying for STEM OPT: If you are filing for STEM OPT, you may continue your employment while your EOS is pending for up to 180 days from the expiration date of your current EAD.

Students on Post-Completion Academic Training: You may continue working for 240 days while your EOS is pending.

I am graduating in December. Do I need to apply for an EOS when I apply for OPT?

If you are currently in F-1 status and you have not traveled outside of the U.S. after 9/15/26, you can apply for OPT without applying for an extension of stay. OPT applications filed after March 18, 2027, would require an Extension of Stay (EOS) application with the OPT application.

How will this rule impact new and current students?

Any F-1 or J-1 student who arrives in the U.S. on or after September 15, 2026, will be issued an Admit Until Date (AUD) by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at their port of entry. Their AUD will be for the length of their program, or four years, whichever is shorter, plus an additional 30-day period for departure. The AUD will be listed on the student’sForm I-94. This rule applies to all F-1 and J-1 students, not just new students. 

What happens to current F-1 students already in the U.S?

F-1 and J-1 students who enter the U.S. before September 15, 2026, will receive an I-94 record with Duration of Status (D/S) listed. When a student re-enters the U.S. after traveling internationally after September 15, 2026, they will receive an I-94 with a fixed admit until date. Students who do not engage in international travel will still need to submit an Extension of Stay (EOS) with United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) if they plan to stay in the U.S. past the Current End Date listed on their Form I-20/DS-2019. 

How do students extend their stay in the United States?

The new rule provides two options for a student to extend their time in the U.S. Students should consult with CISS before deciding on the best option. 

Option 1:  Submit an extension of stay (EOS) with USCIS. Students can submit an EOS as early as 180 days before their current AUD. As of August 2026, the fee for filing Form I-539, Extension of Stay, is $420 if filed online. If the student travels internationally while the application is pending, the application may be considered abandoned. Students can continue to study full-time and are considered in valid status while the EOS is pending. Students can also continue existing on-campus employment, CPT internships, and pre-approved Special Student Relief for up to 240 days while the EOS is pending.

Option 2:  Exit the United States and re-enter at a valid port of entry (POE) with an updated Form I-20/DS-2019 indicating the new program end date. The rule states that an AUD provided by CBP at a port of entry will supersede a pending EOS.

The regulations note that students only need to complete one or the other. Calling the act of traveling and submitting an EOS “superfluous.” Students should consult with CISS. 

How long can students and scholars stay in the United States after completing their program?

 Both F-1 and J-1 students will have a 30-day departure period after their program ends. This is shorter than the previous 60-day departure period offered to F-1 students, and a continuation of the 30-day period already given to J-1 students.

If an F-1 student’s SEVIS record is terminated, the student must depart the U.S. immediately unless the student receives a termination reason of “authorized early withdrawal”—in that case, the student has 15 days to depart the U.S. J-1 Exchange Students and Scholars who have their record terminated will be given no departure period and must exit the U.S. immediately.

What actions should students take during their 30-day departure period?

Students must transfer to a new school (undergraduate students only), apply for Post-Completion OPT (F-1 students), begin Academic Training (J-1 students), complete a change of level to a higher degree level (F-1 students), change do a different immigration status, or depart the U.S. Students are strongly encouraged to make plans before the start of the 30-day departure period and submit an EOS application before their Program End Date. 

When does a student need to apply for an Extension of Stay? 

Students will need to apply for an extension of stay or obtain an updated Form I-20/DS-2019 and travel outside the U.S. in the following situations: 

• Extend their current program of study beyond the original program end date listed on their Form I-20/DS-2019
• For programs of study expected to take longer than four years 
• When transferring to a new school 
• When completing a new degree program at a higher level at Bentley (example: Advanced Standing students) 
• When applying for Post-Completion OPT or STEM OPT (F-1 only) 
• When completing Academic Training after the end date of the original program (J-1 only)

What new F-1 academic restrictions are part of the new rule? 

Undergraduate Students: Undergraduates must complete a full academic year before they can change their major or transfer to a new school. Exceptions can be made by SEVP in “extenuating circumstances.” Examples of permitted extenuating circumstances include a school’s closure, or a natural disaster leading to a prolonged inability to hold in-person classes. Students cannot complete a second degree at the same or lower degree level. For example, a student could not finish one bachelor’s degree and then enroll in a second bachelor’s degree. 

Graduate Students: Graduate students cannot transfer schools or change their program of study except for rare exceptions. Exceptions can be made by SEVP in “extenuating circumstances.” Examples of permitted extenuating circumstances include a school’s closure or a natural disaster leading to a prolonged inability to hold in-person classes. Students cannot complete a second degree at the same or lower degree level. For example, a student could not finish one master’s degree and then enroll in a second one.

How will school transfers be impacted by the new rule?

The new rule prohibits undergraduate students from transferring during their first year of study and prohibits graduate-level students from transferring at any time. Exceptions can be made by SEVP, but the Federal Register describes these exceptions as “rare, exceptional events beyond the control of the school and the affected students that prevent an SEVP-certified school from continuing to provide the student's approved course of study.” Exceptions include a school’s closure, a natural disaster, or the elimination of a student’s program due to a school merger.

How will this rule impact undergraduate transfer students?

Students who are transferring to Bentley may need to file an Extension of Stay (EOS) with USCIS, depending on their situation. Below are some situations students may face:

• Student 1 completed one year of study at another undergraduate institution. Her previous school gave her a program end date of May 31, 2029, and she was issued an Admit Until Date (AUD) of June 30, 2029, by CBP when she entered the US. She will be receiving enough transfer credits that she will be enrolled as a sophomore at Bentley and be expected to graduate from Bentley in May 2029.
• In Student 1’s situation, she would likely not need to submit an EOS. 

• Student 2 also completed one year of study elsewhere, but he will not be transferring enough credits to Bentley to be admitted as a sophomore. While his previous AUD was May 31, 2029, Bentley expects Student 2 will not graduate from Bentley until December 2029.
• Student 2 would need to submit an EOS to USCIS or exit the United States and re-enter at a valid POE, citing the need for additional time after transferring schools. Students can submit an EOS as early as 180 days before their current AUD.

• Student 3 completed high school in the US in F-1 status, and his high school has transferred his record to Bentley. His AUD matched his high school program end date plus the 30-day departure period.
• Student 3 would need to submit an EOS to USCIS before their AUD or exit the United States and re-enter at a valid POE. The student must receive an updated Transfer Pending Form I-20 from Bentley before their AUD.

At the Undergraduate level, we have external partnerships abroad (for example) where students will study abroad for a semester and then transfer into Bentley. Because they are taking classes abroad in the fall, would they still be able to transfer into Bentley for January 2027?

A student transferring from a program conducted in another country is treated as an initial, first-time student for immigration purposes. It is most likely that if this student arrives on campus in January 2027, they will not be allowed to change their major until January 2028. If the students are studying at a U.S. institution, they would not be able to transfer to Bentley until they have completed a full academic year in the U.S. 

How will this rule impact students transferring to Bentley directly after completing a bachelor’s degree or OPT?

Students coming to Bentley directly after finishing a bachelor's degree, or after completing OPT/STEM OPT, will have only 30 days after completing their program to both transfer their record to Bentley and submit the EOS to USCIS. Alternatively, students in these situations can instead exit the U.S. and re-enter using the Form I-20 issued by Bentley 30 days before the start of the term. If a student has a pending EOS when classes begin, they can study full-time for as long as the application is pending. They cannot work on campus or participate in CPT until their EOS is approved.

How will dual degree students be impacted?

Graduate-level students will need to commit to their major and/or majors before beginning their program. The rule permits students to earn multiple degrees concurrently. For example, a student may enroll in a dual MBA/MS degree at Bentley if they commit to both programs prior to entering the U.S. 

How will MBA students be impacted when adding a concentration after enrollment begins?

The new rule prohibits “students at the graduate education level or above from changing educational objectives at any point during a program of study.” We interpret this to mean students cannot add a concentration after the start of their program if the concentration is represented as a new second major on their Form I-20.

Can students who have previously completed a master’s degree or higher in the United States complete a second master's at Bentley?

The “limits of study at the same or lower educational levels will be applied prospectively. Any programs completed before the effective date of the rule will not be counted towards the limits. DHS has therefore clarified in the final rule that this limitation of study at the same or lower educational levels applies only to programs that are completed after the effective date.” In other words, if a student completes a master’s degree before September 15, 2026, they are not prohibited from enrolling in a second master’s degree. Anyone completing a degree after September 15, 2026, is prohibited from enrolling in a second degree at the same level. 

Will this rule impact eligibility for non-degree programs?

Those who completed a degree before September 15, 2026, will be allowed to enroll in lower degree levels, such as non-degree programs. Likely, those who complete a bachelor's or master's degree after that period will not be allowed to complete a non-degree program, as that may be considered a “lower” level. However, further clarification is needed as DHS does not define degree levels in the regulations. 

How will J-1 short-term research scholars be impacted by the new policy?

J-1 short-term and research scholars will also be given an AUD, limiting their time in the United States, and will need to extend their status either by submitting an EOS to USCIS or exiting the country and re-entering at a valid POE. Source: J-1 Guidance

What happens if a Scholar is expected to stay at the University for an extended period of time, but the department has only authorized funding for a shorter period of time?

In this situation, when CISS is creating the Form DS-2019, CISS can add a comment in the remarks section stating “Expected Completion Date DD-MM-YYYY.” This can be different from the date listed as the Program End Date. Upon entry to the United States or applying at USCIS, the DHS employee has the discretion to either admit the Scholar until the shorter Program End Date or the Expected Completion Date, as long as this is no more than 4 years and 30 days in the future.

Can a J-1 Scholar continue working while they have a pending EOS?

A J-1 Scholar with a pending EOS can continue working for up to 240 days as long as the EOS application was filed prior to the program end date listed on the DS-2019. This work must be “authorized with a specific employer incident to status.”

How are J-2 Dependents impacted by the rule change?

J-2 Dependents should be issued an AUD equal to the J-1 principal. In the event of the J-1 principal having their status shortened, the J-2 dependents must also leave on the shortened end date. If the J-1 principal applies for an EOS, each J-2 Dependent must also file an EOS. J-2 Dependents can continue to request employment authorization, but unlike the J-1 principal, their employment is not auto-extended while they have a pending EOS. They will need to apply for a new EAD card when they apply for their EOS.

Can students change their major before September 15, 2026?

Yes. The rule does not go into effect until September 15, 2026. If some students choose to change their major before that date, we can update their record under current rules.

When will undergraduates be permitted to declare or change their major?

A: Undergraduates will need to wait until they have completed their first year before they can change their major or transfer to a new school. Exceptions can be made by SEVP in “extenuating circumstances.” Examples of permitted extenuating circumstances include a school’s closure, or a natural disaster leading to a prolonged inability to hold in-person classes.

Can a transfer student who completed their first year at another school change their major in their first year at Bentley?

The regulations prohibit a student from changing their major in the first academic year of their “program of study.” We are seeking clarification, but the regulations seem to state that an undergraduate student can change their program of study after one year, which could refer to both the major and the school of enrollment. 

What happens if a student fails a class or classes and needs additional time to graduate?

Students who need more time to graduate will need to both request a program extension with CISS and also request an Extension of Stay from USCIS, the government office that will process the applications. Students can continue studying while the Extension of Stay application is pending.

When submitting the EOS, the student must state why they need more time. Acceptable reasons for an EOS approval include “(1) compelling academic reasons; (2) a documented illness or medical condition; or (3) exceptional circumstances beyond the control of the alien.”

The rule cautions, however, that “a student who has a pattern of failing classes that has resulted in multiple program extensions would not be qualified for an EOS.” An extension request due to academic probation or suspension will not be approved. Students will need to submit documentation showing qualification for an extension. 

How will PhD students complete their programs if they need more than four years?

Doctorate-level students will need to either submit an EOS or exit and re-enter the U.S. at a later date to receive a later AUD and complete their program.

How will student employment opportunities be impacted by the rule?

For those who will be graduating in May 2027, when they apply for OPT, they will need to file an EOS with USCIS. While Premium Processing is currently available for OPT, there is no option for premium processing for EOS. We do not know if USCIS will concurrently adjudicate EOS applications filed concurrently with OPT applications that were filed with Premium Processing. Students are considered in valid status while their applications are pending but cannot work until the OPT and EOS are both approved and in effect.

Is there any change to permitted unemployment days while on OPT or STEM OPT?

The Federal Register does not refer to changes to the permitted unemployment periods for approved OPT and STEM OPT. The unemployment time clock only begins once OPT or STEM OPT is approved and active.

Will this change impact advanced standing degrees?

Students can apply for advanced standing, but they will either need to apply for an EOS when changing from their bachelor's degree to a master’s degree, or they will need to exit the United States and re-enter up to 30 days before the master’s part of the program begins.

How will this change impact Academic Training?

Exchange students wishing to participate in a summer internship after their coursework at Bentley would need to request Academic Training from CISS and file an EOS.  J-1 students may be able to participate in on-campus employment and academic training authorized before completing their coursework with a pending EOS filed. Students should consult with CISS. 

If a one-semester exchange student decides to extend their stay at Bentley to a full year, what actions will they need to take?

After CISS extends their Form DS-2019, the exchange student will need to either file an EOS with USCIS or exit the country and re-enter with the extended Form DS-2019. J-1 visas are issued with the expiration date matching the student’s program end date, so it is most likely that the student will also need to complete another visa interview for a new J-1 visa with an end date matching their new program end date.

How will this impact F-1 students who complete a semester or year-long study abroad program?

Study Abroad participation is permitted and considered an acceptable reason for a student to be outside of the U.S. for more than five months. We anticipate that when an F-1 student returns to the U.S. from their term abroad, they will remain on the same SEVIS record and their AUD will not change unless their Form I-20/program of study has been updated.

How is a Leave of Absence (LOA) impacted by the rule change?

Generally, if a student takes a LOA, they are required to leave the United States for the term. When the student is ready to return, CISS will generally issue them a new initial Form I-20. Upon entry to the United States, the student’s new Form I-20 will be reviewed at their POE by CBP, and the student will be issued a new AUD based on the listed program end date.

 How might a Reduced Course Load (RCL) impact a student under the new rule?

Often, students who request an RCL, either for academic reasons in their first semester or for medical reasons in a later semester, will need additional time to complete their degrees. These students would need to submit an EOS to USCIS or travel and re-enter the U.S. with a Form I-20 with an updated program end date.

Can students enroll in classes after their AUD expires?

If the student has timely filed an EOS, the student can continue studying full-time and is considered in valid status.

When can students change their majors?

Undergraduates must complete one full academic year of their program before they can change their major. Graduate students cannot change their “educational objective,” including major fields of study, at any time.

Will student employment need to collect different documents from F-1 students with on-campus jobs?

When student workers complete their Form I-9, if there is a discrepancy between the program's end date on the Form I-20 and the AUD on their Form I-94, the Form I-94 will take precedence. Students can continue working on campus for 240 days after their AUD if they timely file an EOS with USCIS. The student should provide a Receipt Notice from USCIS as evidence of their timely filed EOS. If the EOS is still pending after 240 days, the student must stop working but can continue to study until the EOS is approved.

If an EOS is denied, the student must cease working immediately. Consult with USCIS for the most up-to-date information on verifying employment eligibility.

Can student sanctions impact eligibility for an EOS?

The new rule states that if a student’s delayed graduation is due to “academic probation or suspension or a student’s repeated inability or unwillingness to complete his or her course of study,” this student may be denied the request for an EOS.

Can F-1 students go on the Bahamas trip?

Students should consult with CISS before signing up for the Bahamas trip. International travel may cause complications for some students depending on their post-graduation plans.