On August 28, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced a proposed rule that could eliminate ‘duration of status’ (D/S) for F and J students.
Currently, F-1/J-1 students are admitted to the U.S. for duration of status (D/S). This means students may remain in the United States provided they are maintaining their student visa status as an enrolled student or on an approved period of practical/academic training.
While the process for a proposed rule to be finalized as a federal regulation spans several months, it has now been submitted to the Office of Management and Budget, meaning it is undergoing final financial review. Like many peer institutions, the University at Buffalo submitted comments regarding the proposed rule change. DHS evaluates feedback and may consider revisions; however, the key changes below are expected.
| Current F-1/J-1 Regulation | Proposed Rule Changes |
|---|---|
| Admitted for duration of status (D/S) | Admitted for a fixed period, maximum 4 years |
Extension of stay beyond program end date processed by DSOs/AROs
| Extension of stay beyond program end date processed by DSOs/AROs and USCIS
|
| F-1 grace period after completion of program or OPT is 60 days | F-1 grace period after completion of program or OPT is 30 days |
| SEVIS transfer/change of major permitted for undergraduate students throughout degree program | SEVIS transfer/change of major permitted for undergraduates only after first year of study |
| SEVIS transfer/change of program permitted for graduate students | SEVIS transfer/change of program NOT permitted for graduate students at any time during degree program |
| SEVIS transfer/change of level to another academic program at the same or lower educational level permitted | SEVIS transfer/change of level to another academic program at the same or lower education level NOT permitted |