On July 17, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published new regulations impacting F-1 and J-1 students and scholars. The new regulations go into effect on September 15, 2026. 

Students who enter the U.S. before September 15, 2026, under the current Duration of Status (D/S) system are not immediately affected; new rules apply to students entering the U.S. on or after September 15th. 

The International Center visa advisors will answer any questions you have at the Town Hall Meetings listed below, and we will be happy to meet with any student who has additional concerns following the sessions. We will also host additional sessions after the start of the fall semester. Email intlservices@calpoly.edu to schedule an advising appointment. 

Keep checking this webpage for updates. 

Under the current system, F-1 and J-1 students and exchange visitors are admitted to the United States for “Duration of Status” (D/S) meaning you are authorized to stay as long as you are maintaining your program and visa status.

The new DHS rule replaces D/S with a fixed-date admission period, the Admit Until Date (AUD). In practice, this means:

• When you enter the U.S., your admission will have a specific end date tied to your program completion date as listed on your I-20 (F-1) or DS-2019 (J-1). 
• If you need more time than the AUD to complete your program you will need to file a formal application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to extend your stay. 
• For F-1 students, the grace period after completing your program will be reduced from 60 days to 30 days. 
• There are also some new limits on changing majors or academic levels during your stay. 

• F-1 students: Take the Changes to Duration of Status for International Students Homebase Course.  The Cal Poly International Center created this course to explain in detail how the rule impacts you.
• Be sure to check your Cal Poly email for updated information and bookmark this site to check for updates.
• Know your program end date and be aware of what is listed on your I-20 or DS-2019.
• Know your Admit Until Date (AUD) on your I-94. Does it say “D/S” or a specific date? The specific date is the date by which you must depart the U.S. (it includes your grace period).
• Email intlservices@calpoly.edu with any questions.
• Meet with your academic advisor if you have any concerns about completing your program on time. If you think you will need more time, request an I-20 extension as soon as possible so it may be extended before September 15th.

• Study in the States Establishing a Fixed Time Period of Admission and an Extension of Stay Procedure Quick Facts
• Study in the States Final Rule: Establishing A Fixed Time Period Of Admission And An Extension Of Stay Procedure FAQ
• NAFSA resource page: DHS Final Rule Ending Duration of Status
• Published Final Rule in the Federal Register

We are reviewing the details thoroughly and will be hosting town halls to go over the rule and what it means for you. If you can, please plan to join one of the two sessions below:

• Session 1: Thursday, Aug. 6 at 8:30 a.m. PT  JOIN SESSION 1
• Session 2: Tuesday, Aug. 11 at 11 a.m. PT JOIN SESSION 2