What changed
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a final rule that ends the 50-year-old “duration of status” policy for F-1 and J-1 visa holders, replacing it with a fixed admission period capped at four years for most students (ICE). The rule takes effect on September 15, 2026 (The Conversation).
Under the new system, F-1 students will no longer be admitted for as long as their program lasts. Instead, their I-94 admission record will show a specific expiration date—typically the length of their program, but not exceeding four years (YMGrad video). If a student needs more time to finish their degree or pursue Optional Practical Training (OPT), they must file Form I-539 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to extend their stay, rather than simply asking their Designated School Official (DSO) to update their I-20 (IDP).
The grace period after program completion is also halved from 60 days to 30 days, leaving less time to find a job, apply for OPT, or prepare to leave (USC Annenberg).
Separately, the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) issued new guidance on August 24, 2026, that restricts Curricular Practical Training (CPT) to situations where all students in a program are required to complete the training as part of the curriculum (Daily Princetonian). This means many internships that were previously approved as CPT—such as optional or elective placements—may no longer qualify (ICE).
Who is affected
All new F-1 and J-1 students entering the U.S. on or after September 15, 2026, will be subject to the fixed admission period (Boundless). Current students already in the U.S. are under a transition period, but they will eventually need to comply with the new extension rules (YMGrad video).
Indian students are among the most affected. India sends over 350,000 students to the U.S. each year, and the new rules add uncertainty to their plans (Hindustan Times).
The CPT restrictions hit graduate students and undergraduates who rely on internships to gain experience. For example, Princeton University currently grants “internship milestone credit” to allow CPT, but under the new guidance, such approvals may no longer be permissible unless the internship is required for graduation (Daily Princetonian).
What to do now
- If you are a new or continuing student, check your I-94 admission date after September 15, 2026. If your program extends beyond that date, plan to file Form I-539 with USCIS well before your I-94 expires (YMGrad video).
- If you are on CPT or plan to apply, confirm with your DSO that your internship is a required part of your curriculum. Optional internships may no longer qualify under the new SEVP guidance (Columbia).
- If you are nearing graduation, note that the grace period is now 30 days, not 60. Start your OPT application or job search earlier to avoid overstaying (USC Annenberg).
- If you are a PhD student or in a program longer than four years, budget for extension fees and biometrics appointments. USCIS processing can take months, so apply early (IDP).
- Stay updated with official SEVP guidance and your university’s international office. Many universities are holding information sessions to help students navigate the changes (Daily Princetonian).
Bottom line
The new F-1 rules mark a major shift in U.S. student immigration. With a fixed four-year admission cap, a shorter grace period, and tighter CPT restrictions, Indian students must be more proactive in managing their visa status. Plan ahead, consult your DSO, and consider using mock tests to keep your study plans on track while you navigate these changes.