Below are the answers to the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the final rule, “Establishing a Fixed Time Period of Admission and an Extension of Stay Procedure for Nonimmigrant Academic Students, Exchange Visitors, and Representatives of Foreign Information Media,” for F students.

Important: The information below is based on proposed federal regulations set to take effect on September 15, 2026. These regulations have not been implemented yet. Grand Valley State University will update this page as additional guidance becomes available.

Duration of Status (D/S) is the period during which an F-1 or J-1 student is authorized to remain in the United States while maintaining immigration status. Under the current system, most students remain in valid status as long as they continue to meet federal requirements and maintain a valid Form I-20 or DS 2019. The regulation changes are currently slated to be effective September 15, 2026. 

The proposed regulations primarily would replace the current D/S framework with a fixed period of time also known as departure period in the United States for many students. Most undergraduate students would receive up to four (4) years (rather than the current five), while most graduate students at the master’s level would receive only two years (rather than the current three) depending on circumstances identified by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Other changes to specific situations may be found on the website.

Not necessarily. The regulation changes are currently slated to be effective September 15, 2026. The impact will depend on each student's individual circumstances, including academic progression, work authorization, and date of most recent entry to the United States. 

Students entering the United States on or after September 15, 2026, will be admitted for a fixed date, rather than the Duration of Status.  A current student traveling with an entrance on or after September 15th will no longer have a Duration of Status.  

The grace period under the new regulations is changing from 60 days to 30 days. So, your travel would need to be completed no later than 30 days after your program end date. 

The grace period under the new regulations is changing from 60 days to 30 days. So, your travel would need to be completed no later than 30 days after your OPT end date.  

The grace period under the new regulations is changing from 60 days to 30 days. So your travel will need to be completed no later than 30 days after your STEM OPT end date. 

Yes. Changing your major would generally still be possible after one year of courses (previously permitted every semester). However, if the change affects your graduation timeline or academic program, additional immigration planning may be required. Contact the International Student Services (ISS) Team at the Padnos Center for Global Experiences (PCGE) before finalizing the change.

Yes. Additional academic programs are generally permitted. Because they may extend the time needed to graduate, please discuss your plans with your academic advisor and the ISS Team at the Padnos Center for Global Experiences early in the planning process.

Many GVSU students need additional time because they change majors, study abroad, complete internships, transfer credits, or encounter personal or medical circumstances. If the proposed regulations are implemented, you may need to request additional immigration authorization before your current period of admission expires. This Extension of Stay (EOS) process is through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and not Grand Valley State University (GVSU) and is expected to take several months as well as require a substantial filing fee.  It is critical to plan early and coordinate with your academic advisor and the International Student Services Team at the Padnos Center for Global Experiences.

No. Under the new regulations, graduate students may not change programs after entry into the United States.  

Yes. Currently, existing employment authorization rules remain in effect. If the proposed regulations are implemented, additional documentation or timing requirements may apply. The International Student Team at the Padnos Center for Global Experiences. will provide updated guidance if federal requirements change. 

The primary change will be the duration of time that they may remain in the United States.  Their time will be dependent on the time permitted for you, the F1 status holder.  

Yes. International travel is always a good time to verify that your immigration documents are current. Contact the International Student Services Team at the Padnos Center for Global Experiences before making travel plans if you have questions or your academic situation has recently changed.

Please contact the International Student Services Team at the Padnos Center for Global Experiences before making significant academic or immigration-related changes, including:  

• changing majors 
• delaying graduation 
• reducing your course load 
• withdrawing from classes 
• taking a leave of absence 
• transferring schools 
• accepting employment 
• participating in study abroad. 

Yes. Attend GVSU’s Virtual Town Hall on Duration of Status Updates which will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026 from 1:00 pm.-2:00 pm.  We will post the recording if you are unable to attend.  Registration is here.

Continue reading and responding to emails sent to you from the GVSU International Student Email account ([email protected]). 

Remember that the GVSU International Student Services Team is the official source at GVSU for you on immigration regulations and maintaining your immigration status.  

Questions may be directed to the International Student Services Team at the Padnos Center for Global Experiences. 

Email: [email protected] 
Phone: (616) 331-3898