Studying in the US? Universities issue urgent advisory ahead of major DHS visa policy shift
International students planning to study in the United States have been urged by several universities to return to the country before September 15, 2026, as the US government prepares to introduce a major change to its immigration system.The advisory follows the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) decision to replace the long-standing “duration of status (D/S)” system with a “fixed time period of admission” framework. The new rule is scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026, after a 60-day implementation period.The policy change is expected to affect thousands of international students and exchange visitors, including those from India, who are enrolled in US colleges and universities.
Universities caution students against delayed travel
Several US universities have advised international students, scholars, and exchange visitors to complete their travel and re-enter the United States before the new rule comes into force.Institutions have warned that those arriving after September 15 could face additional immigration procedures under the revised framework. Students who are currently outside the US for summer vacations, internships, or personal travel have been encouraged to plan their return carefully to avoid uncertainty during the transition period.The advisories are intended to help students avoid disruptions to their academic schedules as immigration authorities implement the new system.
What is changing?
For decades, most international students holding F visas, vocational students on M visas, and exchange visitors on J visas were admitted under the Duration of Status (D/S) system.Under this arrangement, individuals could remain in the United States as long as they continued to comply with the conditions of their visa, such as maintaining full-time enrolment, participating in authorised exchange programmes and following immigration regulations. Their stay was not tied to a specific departure date recorded at the time of entry.Beginning September 15, however, eligible travellers will instead receive admission for a fixed period, with a clearly defined expiry date assigned when they enter the United States.
Why the change matters
The shift represents one of the most significant changes to the management of student and exchange visitor visas in recent years.Instead of relying solely on continued academic status, visa holders will also need to monitor the expiration date of their authorised stay. Those who need to remain in the US beyond that period may have to apply for an extension or take other immigration-related steps before their authorised admission expires.Universities say understanding these timelines will become increasingly important for students pursuing multi-year degree programmes, research projects and exchange opportunities.
Students may need to plan travel more carefully
Immigration experts believe the revised system will require international students to pay closer attention to travel plans, programme durations and visa compliance.Students returning after overseas travel may receive different admission periods depending on their circumstances. Universities have therefore encouraged students to remain in contact with their international student offices and seek guidance before making travel decisions.Institutions are also advising students to carry complete immigration documents while travelling and to stay informed about any additional instructions issued by federal authorities.
Indian students likely to watch developments closely
India remains one of the largest sources of international students in the United States. As a result, the new DHS rule is expected to be closely followed by thousands of Indian students preparing to begin or continue their studies.While the change does not prevent students from studying in the United States, it introduces a different admission process that will require greater attention to immigration timelines and compliance requirements.With the September 15 implementation date approaching, universities are urging students to complete their return travel before the new system takes effect to minimise the risk of delays or administrative complications at US ports of entry.
