Dear Students,

On July 17, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security published a new "final rule" making official changes to the federal regulations governing F-1/J-1 nonimmigrant visa holders.

These changes will apply to all current and future F-1/J-1 visa holders and will go into effect 60 days from the date of publication of the rule, beginning on September 15, 2026.

Among other changes, this "final rule" ends the "duration of status" (or "D/S") policy and creates a transition to "fixed periods of admission" for F-1/J-1 visa holders. "Duration of Status" allowed students to enter and remain in the U.S. for an unspecified period of time to enroll in academic study. Students could remain for as long as needed, so long as they maintained their full-time student status, or were engaged in an authorized period of Post-Completion Optional Practical Training or STEM OPT.

The new authorized "period of stay" will be the program end date as documented on the current I-20/DS-2019, not to exceed four years. Students requiring additional time to complete their studies beyond the initial authorized period of stay may be required to file a Form I-539 Extension of Stay application with USCIS.

We understand that you will have many questions and concerns about this change. Please know that the OISS is actively reviewing the new rule and the impacts it will have on the international student and scholar community. Thank you for your patience while we take the time needed to adequately review this rule in order to provide you with the best guidance possible. More information will be shared with you as soon as possible.

In the meantime, please also remember that in addition to the OISS you have access to many other resources to support your healthy, safety, and wellbeing during your time at Boston College. You can find a list of resources and campus supports here.

Thank you, 

OISS 

When does the rule go into effect?

The new rule will go into effect on September 15, 2026.

Who will be affected by the new rule?

Once the new rule goes into effect, it will apply to all F-1/J-1 visa holders.

What other changes are included in the 'final rule'?

OISS is actively reviewing other changes, including rules that may affect permissible changes to academic programs or majors, or moves between U.S. universities, and how these rules may impact current and incoming students.

What should I do now?

All students are reminded that classes begin on August 31. Students must be on-campus no later than the add/drop deadline (September 9) in order to enroll in courses for the Fall 2026 semester.

• Students in the U.S.
• You do not need to take any additional action at this time.
• Continue to frequently check your BC email for additional updates and information from OISS.

• Students outside of the U.S.
• Return to campus as planned to begin or resume your studies for the new academic year.
• Upon arrival into the U.S., review your I-94 record to confirm your records correctly show you entered the U.S. in F-1/J-1 status. For all entries prior to the new rule's effective date on September 15, the I-94 record should list your 'Class of Admission' as "F-1" or "J-1" and 'Admit Until Date' as "D/S" for 'duration of status.' To find your I-94 record, visit the I-94 website, select 'Get Most Recent I-94', and enter your passport information.
• Continue to frequently check your BC email for additional updates and information from OISS.

Where can I learn more now?

The DHS Student and Exchange Visitor Program has published an initial set of Quick Facts and Frequently Asked Questions that you can review.

Review the Global Engagement Gateway and OISS website for additional U.S. immigration policy updates, visa application policy changes, international travel advisories, Know Your Rights guides, and relevant university policies.