New US Student Visa Rules: What International Students Need to Know Before September 15

From 15 September 2026, international students entering the United States on F visas will be admitted for a fixed period of up to four years, replacing the current duration-of-status system.

Under the new rules, a student’s authorised stay will be linked to the programme of study listed on their Form I-20, the official certificate of eligibility. Students will be allowed to enter the United States up to 30 days before their programme begins and must leave within 30 days of completing it.

The four-year limit may affect students on doctoral and research programmes that take longer to complete. Students who need additional time will have to apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS).

The EOS process allows students to request additional time to complete their studies, begin a new programme or undertake post-completion training, including Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT. Students must first obtain support from their designated school official (DSO). 

The DSO will update the student’s record in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS) and issue a revised Form I-20 containing the EOS recommendation. The student can then file Form I-539 with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), along with the required fees, biometrics and supporting documents.

USCIS must receive the application before the student’s authorised period of admission expires. Missing this deadline could result in the student falling out of legal status and losing the ability to remain in the United States. F-2 dependants are also covered by the changes and must either be included in the main application or submit separate applications.

Students who are already in the United States before 15 September 2026 will remain under the terms of their existing admission until the end date shown on their Form I-20 or until their OPT or STEM OPT ends. However, their stay cannot extend beyond 14 November 2030, including the 30-day departure period.

If an EOS application is approved, the student will receive an updated “Admit Until Date” and a new Form I-94 confirming the extended period of stay. If the application is denied, the student and any dependants must leave the United States immediately or by the original authorised departure date.

The change replaces a system that allowed students to remain in the United States for as long as they continued their studies and maintained their immigration status. The new framework places greater emphasis on fixed admission periods and compliance with immigration deadlines.

Universities, particularly those offering programmes that extend beyond four years, may face additional administrative responsibilities. Students will also need to monitor their admission periods closely and complete the EOS process in time if they require an extension.