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We understand that visa changes can feel confusing. This guide answers key questions we think you might have and explains what’s changing and what you need to do.
If you enter the U.S. before September 15, 2026:
Nothing changes for you. You will continue under the current Duration of Status (D/S) rules.
If you enter the U.S. on or after September 15, 2026:
You will receive a fixed end date for your stay in the U.S.
F-1students will be given a specific end date for your stay which will be the course end date on your I-20. You will also get a 30-day grace period after your end date.
For example: Your course end date is December 4, 2026. Your “Admit Until Date”. You now have a 30-day grace period after your course end date (instead of 60 days previously).
Students can find this on their Form I-94 as the “Admit Until Date (AUD).” Students can access this at the following link: https://i94.cbp.dhs.gov/search/recent-search
It means that you need to know your Admit Until Date and plan accordingly.
Yes, students are allowed to enter the United States 30 days prior to the start of their program indicated on their I-20.
You can extend your course, but you must apply for an extension before your end date. Your school will support you with this.
Yes, you can.
You will have to fill in the I-539 form on the USCIS website (https://www.uscis.gov/i-539).
You can apply for an extension as early as you wish, once you are in the U.S.
There is no set deadline yet; however, the recommendation is that you apply at least one month prior to your end date.
There is not data on this yet.
430 USD for online filing and 470 USD for paper filing.
The maximum study length is 24 months.
We recommend that you extend as soon as you know and with a minimum of 30 days prior to the end date in mind which gives you a total of 60 days (including the grace period) to receive the confirmation of your extension. If you properly file your Extension of Stay application with USCIS before your Admit Unit Date expires, you may remain in the United States while USCIS decides on your application.
Your Designated School Official (DSO) is there to guide you. You can also contact our Admissions team any time for further guidance.
If you do not apply for an extension in time, you may lose your legal status, so it’s very important to plan early.
You must leave the U.S. prior to losing your legal status.
Yes. You will still have a 30-day grace period after your course to leave the U.S. or take next steps.
For most students, your course itself will not change. You just need to be more aware of your timeline.
Yes, you can. You must make sure you keep the original Admit Until Date in mind during the process and that you may need to file for an extension (see above point 7.).
• Check whether this change applies to you (before or after Sept 15, 2026)
• Keep a record of your End Date and your Admit Until Date
• Speak to your DSO early if you think you need more time
• Don’t leave extension requests until the last minute
We’re here to support you every step of the way. If you’re unsure about anything, please reach out, we’re here to help!
Please note that the above information is subject to change. We will keep you updated with any further changes.
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