F-1 D/S to Fixed-Period Admission: Current Students Won't Automatically Get New I-94 Date on Sept 15, 2026
Summary
A new rule taking effect on September 15, 2026, will significantly alter F-1 student visa admissions, shifting from "Duration of Status" (D/S) to a fixed-period-of-admission, meaning I-94s will have specific end dates. For current F-1 students already admitted under D/S and maintaining valid status, the crucial point is that they generally will not automatically receive a new, specific I-94 expiration date on that transition date. This transitional provision aims to prevent abrupt changes for compliant students, though future actions like re-entry will trigger the new fixed-period admission.
The U.S. government is implementing a major policy shift for F-1 student visa holders, transitioning from the traditional "Duration of Status" (D/S) admission to a fixed-period-of-admission system, scheduled to commence on September 15, 2026. Under the current D/S rule, F-1 students are admitted for the duration of their academic program plus any authorized practical training, with their I-94 typically marked "D/S." The new rule will mandate a specific end date on I-94 records for F-1 students. Importantly, for F-1 students currently maintaining valid D/S status when the rule takes effect, the transition provisions state that they will generally *not* automatically receive a new date-specific I-94 on September 15, 2026.
This means that existing F-1 students with D/S will likely retain their D/S status until a triggering event occurs, such as travel outside the U.S. followed by re-entry, or an application for an extension of stay or change of status, at which point they would receive a fixed-period I-94. The practical impact is that while the new rule is coming, it won't immediately alter the I-94 status of compliant F-1 students already in the U.S. However, it introduces a critical planning consideration for any future international travel or status changes, as these actions post-September 2026 will lead to a fixed-period admission, requiring closer attention to I-94 expiration dates and potential extension applications.
Background
Historically, F-1 student visas have been granted for "Duration of Status" (D/S), meaning their authorized stay was tied to the completion of their academic program, offering more flexibility compared to fixed-date admissions.
Who This Affects
- Current F-1 students who are maintaining valid D/S admission when the rule takes effect on September 15, 2026, will generally not automatically receive a new date-specific I-94 on that date.
- F-1 students who travel internationally and re-enter the U.S. after September 15, 2026, will likely be admitted for a fixed period and receive a date-specific I-94 upon their return, converting their status.
- New F-1 applicants or those applying for a change of status to F-1 after the rule's effective date will be subject to the fixed-period admission from the outset, receiving a date-specific I-94.
What You Should Do Now
- Monitor official USCIS and DHS announcements closely for detailed guidance regarding the implementation and any further transition provisions.
- Consult with your Designated School Official (DSO) at your academic institution to understand how these changes might specifically affect your individual immigration status and academic plan.
- Plan any international travel strategically, especially around the September 15, 2026, date, as re-entry may trigger the issuance of a new fixed-period I-94.
Key Takeaway
Existing F-1 students with D/S will generally not have their I-94 automatically converted to a fixed expiration date on September 15, 2026, but future actions like re-entry will lead to the new fixed-period admission.
Source: Read official article on Murthy Law Firm
Publisher note — NaviBound summarizes cited third-party sources for convenience only. Confirm all requirements with the linked official announcement and qualified professionals. Not legal advice. Display date: Sep 01, 2026. Editorial policy