Beginning September 15, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security's new rule replacing Duration of Status (D/S) with a fixed period of admission will significantly affect F-1 and J-1 students and exchange visitors. Anyone entering on  F-1 or J-1 on or after September 15, 2026 will be issued an I-94 showing a specific date (aka a “date certain”) under the Admit Until Date (AUD).  This will normally match your program end date listed on Form I-20, DS-2019, your OPT expiration date, or OPT STEM expiration date.  If you want to remain in the US beyond your Admit Until Date (AUD), you must secure an official extension of stay to remain in lawful status by  filing a Form I-539 with the USCIS or by traveling and getting readmitted to the U.S. 

While many individuals already in the United States will initially remain under transition provisions, this change makes travel planning more important than ever. Before leaving the United States, international students and exchange visitors should review their immigration documents, confirm visa validity, and understand how reentry could affect future applications, including Optional Practical Training (OPT) and extensions of stay. In some cases, traveling after September 15, 2026, may create additional filing requirements that would not otherwise apply.

If you are an F-1 or J-1 visa holder considering international travel, consulting with an experienced immigration attorney before making travel plans can help you avoid unexpected complications and ensure you maintain lawful status under the new rules.