F-1 visa

USCIS new I-539 form 2026 edition featured image for F-1 student extension of stay guide
Global Education Preparation Updates in Study Abroad

USCIS New I-539 Form for F-1 Students: Everything Indian Students Need to Know Before Filing an Extension of Stay in 2026

Palak NeemaComment on USCIS New I-539 Form for F-1 Students: Everything Indian Students Need to Know Before Filing an Extension of Stay in 2026

USCIS is releasing a new 09/15/26 edition of Form I-539 alongside the DHS Duration of Status rule that takes effect on 15 September 2026. Here is which Indian F-1 students must file it, what documents USCIS wants, and whether premium processing applies.

Hand holding a US passport with travel documents, representing the F-1 Duration of Status rule for international students
Global Education Preparation Updates in Study Abroad

F-1 Duration of Status Rule Finalised: What the 4-Year Cap Means for Indian Students in 2026

Palak NeemaComment on F-1 Duration of Status Rule Finalised: What the 4-Year Cap Means for Indian Students in 2026

DHS has finalised the F-1 Duration of Status rule, ending open-ended student stays with a hard 4-year cap and a shorter 30-day grace period, effective 15 September 2026. Here is what Indian students need to know about the new dates, OPT and H-1B impact, and how to plan for Fall 2026.