The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a major change that could reshape how long international students and scholars may stay in the United States.

The rule — announced on August 28, 2025 — would replace the long-standing Duration of Status (D/S) system with a fixed admission period, typically capped at four years.

While the proposal has not been finalized, it has drawn strong reactions from leading U.S. universities and education associations, who warn that the change could disrupt academic programs, research continuity, and the global appeal of American higher education.

Overview of the Proposed Rule

Under the existing D/S system, F-1 and J-1 visa holders are permitted to remain in the U.S. as long as they maintain their student or exchange visitor status — for example, while completing a degree or authorized training.

The proposed rule would change that by:

• Setting a maximum stay of four years, or less for certain nationalities or programs;
• Requiring formal extensions through USCIS (Form I-539) for longer programs; and
• Reducing the grace period after graduation from 60 days to 30 days.

If finalized, the new system would apply to both F-1 academic students and J-1 exchange visitors, marking one of the most significant reforms to international student policy in decades.

How the Academic Community Responded

On October 9, 2025, the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE), along with several major education organizations — including the Association of American Universities (AAU), NAFSA: Association of International

Educators, and the Association of International Education Administrators (AIEA) — submitted a formal response opposing the rule.

Their letter, now part of the Federal Register public record, outlines deep concerns about the potential academic, administrative, and global repercussions of the proposal.

Key Concerns from Educators

1. Disruption to Academic and Research Continuity

Many doctoral and long-term research programs extend well beyond four years.

Educators warn that forcing students to apply for stay extensions mid-program could:

• Interrupt research progress;
• Delay dissertation work;
• Create uncertainty in academic planning; and
• Add stress for both students and faculty supervisors.
• For instance, Ph.D. programs typically last 5–7 years, and scientific research often follows multi-year grant cycles.

Educators argue that such long-term academic commitments cannot fit neatly into a four-year visa limit.

2. Increased Administrative Burden and Cost

Universities anticipate a sharp rise in administrative workload if the proposal takes effect.

Under the new system, students seeking extensions would need to:

• File Form I-539 with USCIS;
• Pay application fees (around $370, plus possible biometric fees); and
• Wait weeks or months for adjudication.

Meanwhile, international student offices — already managing large caseloads — would need to:

• Track every student’s visa expiration date;
• Monitor pending extension cases; and
• Expand staffing to handle compliance tasks.

Institutions worry that these added burdens could divert resources from student advising and academic support.

3. Shorter Post-Graduation Grace Period

Currently, F-1 students have a 60-day grace period after completing their programs to prepare for departure, transition to Optional Practical Training (OPT), or begin another program.

The proposed 30-day limit would cut that time in half.

For students, that means:

• Less time to pack, move, or secure employment authorization;
• More uncertainty for those awaiting OPT approval; and
• Increased risk of accidental overstays due to processing delays.

Many universities noted that such a short transition period is unrealistic for modern academic and employment timelines.

4. Threat to U.S. Global Competitiveness

Perhaps the strongest argument from educators is that the proposal could discourage top international talent from choosing the United States.

Other destinations — such as Canada, the U.K., and Australia — already offer more predictable and flexible visa timelines.

The U.S., they argue, risks losing its competitive edge as students seek countries with simpler, student-friendly policies.

Academic associations also warned of potential ripple effects:

• Fewer international Ph.D. candidates in STEM fields;
• Reduced global collaboration in research; and
• A decline in campus diversity and innovation.

As the Association of American Universities (AAU) noted, international students contribute significantly to both U.S. research capacity and economic vitality, making such barriers counterproductive.

Current Status of the Rule

As of November 2025:

• The public comment period has closed (as of September 29, 2025).
• The DHS is reviewing submitted feedback from educators, associations, and the public.
• No implementation timeline or final decision has been announced.

That means the Duration of Status (D/S) system remains in effect for all current and new F-1 and J-1 visa holders.

Requests from the Education Sector

The collective letter from education organizations urged DHS to:

• Retain the D/S system for academic and exchange visitors;
• Allow exceptions or automatic extensions for long-term programs (especially doctoral and research-based);
• Preserve the 60-day grace period for post-completion planning; and
• Conduct impact analyses on how the proposal would affect higher education and research competitiveness.

These recommendations aim to balance security goals with academic practicality and fairness.

What This Means for International Students

If you are an international student currently studying in, or planning to study in, the U.S., here’s what to keep in mind:

1. Nothing Has Changed Yet.

The proposal is still under review. The D/S system remains valid, and there’s no immediate impact on your visa.

2. Stay Informed.

Monitor official sources like studyinthestates.dhs.gov, FederalRegister.gov, and updates from your university’s international office.

3. Plan Ahead if You’re in a Long-Term Program.

Doctoral and medical research students should keep track of developments and discuss possible timelines with advisors.

4. Work with Trusted Institutions.

Choose universities or sponsors — such as Stanley Prep and its U.S. partners — that provide accurate, up-to-date visa guidance.

Stanley Prep’s Guidance

At Stanley Prep, we understand how policy uncertainty can affect both students and partner institutions.

Our team is:

• Closely monitoring DHS updates and university responses;
• Preparing comprehensive advisories once a final rule is published; and
• Supporting partner agencies with real-time updates and counseling materials.

Students can rely on us for transparent, verified information — not speculation — as the situation develops.

Conclusion

The proposed F-1/J-1 visa duration of stay rule has sparked serious debate across the U.S. academic community.

While DHS aims to enhance immigration control, educators warn that such measures could unintentionally undermine research continuity and global student mobility — two pillars of America’s higher education success.

For now, students and families should stay calm, informed, and proactive. Stanley Prep will continue to provide clear updates, helping you prepare for any outcome while pursuing your academic and professional goals in the U.S.