Changes Forthcoming to Eliminate Duration of Status for International Students and Scholars

On Friday, July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued its final rule to eliminate "duration of status (D/S)” on the Form I-94 (entry record). When this rule takes effect on September 15, 2026, the Admit Until Date (AUD) on the I-94 will be replaced with a fixed period of stay that admits students and scholars on F-1 and J-1 visas up until an exact date, versus the end of their academic program. In most cases, the Admit Until Date (AUD) on an individual's Form I-94 will coincide with their program's end date noted on the Form I-20 or DS-2019, or a maximum period of four years, whichever is shorter. Students and scholars needing more than four years to complete their program objectives will need to file a formal extension application through USCIS after the rule takes effect.

What to know now:

The rule is not in effect yet. DHS has indicated institutions and individuals will have a transition period of 60 days to prepare for the new rule. The date identified for the rule to go into effect is September 15, 2026.
The International Services and Engagement Office (ISEO) in Global Affairs and the Division of Extended Studies are collaborating on content for the Fixed Period of Stay in the U.S. webpage, where the campus will continue to share more detailed information on the rule and its impacts.

Experts in the University of California and UC San Diego communities are currently reviewing the rule in full and identifying the various impacts the new requirements will have on stakeholders and campus. Information will continue to be updated as these reviews continue, and new information will be posted on the Fixed Period of Stay in the U.S. page.

We recognize this rule, once implemented, will have a significant impact on our entire community and wanted to reassure you that UC San Diego and the UC system are fully engaged to ensure that international students and scholars continue to have a positive educational experience. We appreciate your patience as we assess and respond to the changes brought about by this rule change.

Robert E. Continetti
Interim Executive Vice Chancellor

University of California San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093