Short answer: yes. Duration of status ended on 15 September 2026. F-1 students are now admitted for a fixed period up to the length of their programme, with a maximum of four years, and the grace period after finishing is 30 days instead of 60.
Quick answer: what actually changed
- Admission is for a fixed end date, not “D/S”.
- The end date is set by your programme length, capped at four years.
- The grace period after completion is 30 days, not 60.
- Longer programmes need an extension of stay filed with USCIS.
What does “duration of status” mean?
Until now, F-1 students were admitted for “D/S”, meaning they could stay as long as they kept studying full time and followed the rules. There was no end date on the I-94 record. That open ended arrangement is what the new rule removes.
How does the fixed admission period work?
When you enter the US, the officer admits you until the end date of your programme as shown on your I-20, up to four years. If your degree takes five years, you cannot be admitted for the full five in one go. You would need to file for an extension with USCIS before your admission ends.
What should UAE students do now?
Check that your I-20 end date is accurate, because it now drives your admission date. Keep your passport valid and your I-94 record safe. Talk to your school’s designated school official (DSO) early if you may change course, take a break, or need more time to finish. Do not wait until the last month to ask about an extension.
Does this change how I get the visa?
No. The visa stamp process in the UAE is the same: I-20, SEVIS fee, DS-160, interview. What changes is the status you are given at the US border and what you must do to stay in status.
Frequently asked questions
Does the rule apply to students already in the US?
Check with your school. The rule has detailed transition provisions, and your DSO is the right person to confirm how it applies to your case.
Is the 30 day grace period long enough to leave?
It is shorter than before, so plan your departure, transfer or next status in advance.
What is the I-94 record?
It is the electronic record of your admission, showing the date by which you must leave or extend. Under the new rule that date is fixed, so check it on the official CBP I-94 website after every entry.
Who should I ask about my situation?
Your school’s designated school official (DSO). They issue your I-20 and know how the rule applies to your programme, transfer or extension.
Does this change how I get the visa in the UAE?
No. The steps are the same. Read our step by step F-1 guide for the full process.
Want us to handle the student visa file?
FastUSTravel prepares the DS-160, the student file and your interview preparation for AED 2,500 + VAT per applicant, with the US government visa application fee included. The SEVIS I-901 fee is paid separately by the student, and we cannot promise approval, because that decision is always the consular officer’s. See the F-1 and F-2 student visa service or message us on WhatsApp for a free consultation.
Sources and official references
- Federal Register: DHS final rule on duration of status (July 2026) (checked 10 October 2026)
- Study in the States, Department of Homeland Security (checked 10 October 2026)
- US Department of State: Student Visa (checked 10 October 2026)
