International students in US face fixed stay limits from September 15: What Indian students need to know

International students in the US will face new rules from September 15, 2026, as the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) replaces the current “duration of status” system for F-1 students with a fixed period of admission. The new period will generally be based on the programme length mentioned on the student’s Form I-20, but cannot exceed four years.

Students who need additional time may have to apply for an extension of stay or leave the US and seek a new period of admission when they return.

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F-1 students will get a fixed admission period

Under the existing system, F-1 students are generally admitted for the “duration of status” while they pursue their programme at an eligible institution or complete authorised practical training.

From September 15, students will instead receive a fixed period of admission. This will generally correspond to the length of the programme listed on Form I-20, the “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status”.

However, the admission period cannot exceed four years.

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Students will continue to receive 30 days before the programme start date to enter the US. They will also get a 30-day period after completing their programme or post-completion OPT or STEM OPT to prepare for departure or seek another lawful status.

Post-study departure period cut to 30 days

The new rules reduce the departure period for eligible F-1 students from 60 days to 30 days.

After completing their programme or post-completion OPT, students will have 30 days to prepare to leave the US or seek another lawful status.

The new rules also set specific limits for certain categories of F students.

Students enrolled in English language training programmes will generally be limited to a 24-month period of admission, followed by a 30-day departure period.

Students attending public high schools will be limited to a total of no more than 12 months to complete their course. This period will include school breaks and annual vacations.

What students need to do if they need more time

Students who need additional time to complete their current programme, begin a new programme or undertake post-completion OPT or STEM OPT may need to take additional steps to remain lawfully in the US.

They can apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS) with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Before applying, students should work with their designated school official (DSO). They will need an updated Form I-20 with the appropriate EOS recommendation. They must then file Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, pay the required fee and provide the required biometrics.

Students with unexpired visas can also leave the US and seek a new period of admission from US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) when they return, subject to eligibility and admissibility requirements.

What happens when F-1 students travel abroad

F-1 students who are already in the US and leave the country after September 15 may receive a new fixed period of admission when they return.

CBP will determine the new admission period based on the student's updated SEVIS record and supporting documents, subject to applicable requirements.

The directive also includes a provision for students who are present in the US on September 15 and timely file for post-completion OPT or STEM OPT by March 18, 2027. Students covered by this provision will not need to apply for an extension of stay.