The email below was sent to international students and scholars in F and J status.
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Dear MIT International Student and Scholar Community,
Today, Friday, July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a Final Rule indicating its intent to end the duration of status (D/S) policy for nonimmigrants in F and J status. To date, the D/S policy has allowed nonimmigrant students and exchange visitors (such as postdocs, visiting professors, and other scholars) to remain in the U.S. for the full duration of their program of study or the length of their appointment. Under the new policy, these visa types will have a fixed end date, subject to extension.
What You Need to Know
- You do not need to take any immediate action. This Final Rule does not go into effect immediately. The implementation date is published as September 15, 2026.
- DHS and other agencies may provide additional guidance, which could modify the impacts.
Additional Details
- This Final Rule is lengthy and complex and has some differences from the Proposed Rule from Summer 2025.
- We are carefully reviewing the provisions and impacts of the Final Rule and are developing a summary that we expect may answer many of your initial questions. We will notify you when the summary is available.
We know that changes in U.S. immigration policy may create concern and uncertainty. Please know that ISO and ISchO are here to support you. As ever, we encourage you to reach out to us if you need assistance.
Sincerely,
David C. Elwell, Associate Dean/Director, MIT International Students Office
Amanda Doran, Director, MIT International Scholars Office