international students

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.

Passports and travel documents on a table representing visa duration of status rules
Global Education Preparation Updates in Study Abroad

DHS Duration of Status Rule: What Indian F-1 Students Need to Know in 2026

Palak NeemaComment on DHS Duration of Status Rule: What Indian F-1 Students Need to Know in 2026

The US Department of Homeland Security has finalized a rule to end “duration of status” for F-1, J-1, and I visa holders, replacing open-ended stays with fixed admission periods. Here’s what changes, who it affects, and the practical steps Indian F-1 students should take in 2026 to stay compliant and avoid reentry bars.