By Kashmira Konduparty
The United States is moving closer to introducing stricter limits on how long international students can stay in the country, a proposal that has sparked concern among universities and students worldwide.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has submitted a final rule that would end the long-standing “Duration of Status” system for F, J and I visa holders, according to a report by ICEF Monitor. Under the current system, international students can remain in the U.S. as long as they continue their studies and comply with visa requirements.
If approved, the new rule would replace that flexibility with fixed stay periods, likely to be up to four years. Students who need more time would have to apply for extensions through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
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The rule is reported to take effect as early as September 2026 for the fall intake, after review by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB). Jill Allen Murray of NAFSA: Association of International Educators said officials expect the administration to move quickly, adding, “we do anticipate that it will happen soon.”
The proposal has raised fears across the higher education sector, particularly for graduate students whose programs often take longer than four years to complete.
Under the current system, schools can approve extensions for students who need more time to finish their studies. The proposed rule would shift that authority to immigration officials, who would be allowed to “use discretion” when reviewing extension requests.
Critics say the changes could create uncertainty for thousands of students. Delays or denials in extension requests could force students to leave the country before completing their degrees.
The proposal may also affect Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows international students to work in the U.S. after graduation. During a confirmation hearing in 2025, USCIS Director Joseph Edlow said he wanted regulations that would “remove the ability for employment authorizations for F-1 students beyond the time that they are in school.”
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Education groups warn that the policy could damage the United States’ reputation as a destination for international students. NAFSA said the proposal would create “tremendous uncertainty” and could discourage students from choosing American universities.
According to the report, nearly half of all international students in the U.S. are enrolled in graduate-level programs, while international students make up a major share of STEM fields such as engineering and computer science. Universities fear the rule could hurt enrollment and research programs that rely heavily on international talent.
Although the proposal has not yet been finalized, schools and students are already preparing for what some education leaders describe as a major shift in the U.S. immigration policy.