DHS Final Rule Eliminates 'Duration of Status' for F-1/J-1 Students, Establishes Fixed Admission Period

Effective September 15, 2026, a new Department of Homeland Security (DHS) regulation will significantly change how F-1 and J-1 international students, scholars, and alumni are authorized to be in the United States. The long-standing 'duration of status' (D/S) system is being replaced with a fixed period of admission, meaning I-94 forms will now show a specific 'Admit Until Date' (AUD). This authorized length of stay will generally be limited to the program length on the I-20/DS-2019, up to a maximum of four years, plus a 30-day grace period. Students needing more time will generally need to file an Extension of Stay application.