The new F-1 visa rules have sparked a lot of questions, and a lot of confusion. From OPT and CPT to travel, Extension of Stay, and Form I-94 expiration dates, students are trying to understand what these changes actually mean for them.

To make things easier, we’ve answered the most common questions about the new F-1 visa rules in one place. Whether you’re a current student or planning to study in the U.S., this guide will help you better understand the new rules and what to expect moving forward.

Before We Begin: What Is an F-1 Visa?

The F-1 visa is a nonimmigrant student visa that allows international students to study full-time at accredited schools, colleges, and universities in the United States.

As an F-1 student, you’re expected to maintain full-time enrollment, make normal progress toward completing your degree, and follow the immigration rules that apply to your student status. Depending on your program and eligibility, you may also have opportunities to work through options like Curricular Practical Training (CPT), Optional Practical Training (OPT), or authorized on-campus employment.

The new F-1 visa rules don’t change the purpose of the F-1 visa but they change how your authorized stay in the United States is managed. The questions below explain exactly what that means and how the new rules may affect you.

1. What are the new F-1 visa rules in 2026?

The biggest change is that the long-standing Duration of Status (D/S) system is ending.

Under the previous system, F-1 students entered the United States without a specific expiration date on their Form I-94. Instead, they could remain in the country as long as they maintained their F-1 status, stayed enrolled in school, and kept their SEVIS record active.

Beginning September 15, 2026, that system will be replaced with a Fixed Admission Period.

Here’s a quick overview of the most important changes:

2. What does my Form I-94 expiration date mean?

Your Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record) is the official document issued by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) that shows how long you’re authorized to remain in the United States.

Starting September 15, 2026, instead of seeing “D/S” on your Form I-94, you’ll receive a specific “Admit Until Date.”

This date will be based on your Form I-20 program end date (up to a maximum of four years), plus an additional 30 days to prepare for departure.

Important: Once your Form I-94 expiration date passes, you are immediately considered out of status and will start accumulating unlawful presence, even if you are still actively enrolled and attending classes.

Unlawful presence can have serious immigration consequences, including automatic 3-year or 10-year re-entry bars if you overstay by 180 days or more.

Because of this, it’s important to regularly monitor your digital Form I-94 record at cbp.gov/I94.

3. How do I apply for an Extension of Stay (EOS)?

If you need more time to complete your academic program after your Form I-94 expires, your school can no longer process a standard program extension through SEVIS alone.

Instead, you’ll need to file an Extension of Stay (EOS) application directly with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Here’s what you’ll need:

– Required Form

Submit Form I-539 (Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status).

– Filing Fees & Biometrics

The application includes the standard USCIS filing fee and requires biometrics (fingerprints and photographs) at a USCIS Application Support Center.

– Financial Documentation

You’ll need to provide documents showing you have enough financial resources to cover your tuition and living expenses without engaging in unauthorized employment.

– Acceptable Reasons for an Extension

USCIS will only approve an Extension of Stay if you have a valid, documented reason. The previous “normal progress” standard has been eliminated.

Acceptable reasons include:

• Compelling academic reasons (such as unexpected research delays or changes in research topics)
• Documented medical conditions or illnesses supported by a licensed medical doctor, doctor of osteopathy, or licensed psychologist
• Exceptional circumstances beyond your control, such as natural disasters or institutional closures

Note: Program delays caused by academic probation, suspension, or repeated course failures are not considered acceptable reasons for an extension.

4. What are the new travel rules for F-1 students?

If you’re planning to travel internationally, there are a few important things to know.

I’m currently studying under D/S. What happens if I travel?

If you’re already in the United States under the previous Duration of Status (D/S) system, you’re protected by the transition rules and may remain under D/S until your current academic program ends (up to the applicable four-year transition limit).

However, if you leave the United States and later return, you’ll be admitted under the new fixed-date system.

That means your new Form I-94 will include a specific expiration date instead of “D/S.”

Can I travel while my Extension of Stay (EOS) is pending?

Yes, but you should travel carefully.

If you leave the United States while your Form I-539 Extension of Stay application is pending, it won’t automatically be considered abandoned, provided your previously authorized Form I-94 admission period hasn’t expired.

However, if you leave the U.S. and later seek re-entry using a new Form I-20 with a program end date beyond your previous Form I-94 expiration date, USCIS may consider your pending EOS application abandoned.

If you’re traveling while your EOS is pending, always carry your official Form I-797 USCIS receipt notice.

5. How do the new F-1 visa rules affect OPT?

The OPT process includes a temporary transition period before the new requirements fully take effect.

Transition Period (Until March 18, 2027)

If you timely file for post-completion OPT or a 24-month STEM OPT extension on or before March 18, 2027 (244 days after the rule’s publication), you only need to submit Form I-765 for your Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

During this transition period, you do not need to file Form I-539.

If your application is approved, your F-1 status is automatically authorized until your EAD expires, plus an additional 60 days.

After March 18, 2027

Once the transition period ends, students whose authorized Form I-94 stay doesn’t cover their requested practical training period must file both:

• Form I-539 (Extension of Stay)
• Form I-765 (Employment Authorization)

These applications must be filed concurrently.

6. What do the new rules mean for CPT?

There’s been a lot of confusion online about how these changes affect Curricular Practical Training (CPT). Here’s what you need to know.

Is Day 1 CPT banned?

No. DHS explicitly states that the new rule does not eliminate or make substantive changes to existing CPT regulations.

Day 1 CPT programs remain fully legal and available, provided they are an integral part of your university’s established curriculum.

Does CPT have to fit within my authorized stay?

Yes. Any authorized CPT must be completed within your fixed period of admission.

If your academic program extends beyond your Form I-94 expiration date, you’ll need to file a timely Extension of Stay (EOS).

Can I continue working while my EOS application is pending?

Yes. If you file your EOS application before your Form I-94 expires, your CPT and on-campus employment authorization are automatically extended for up to 240 days while USCIS reviews your application.

What is changing for students pursuing multiple degrees?

While Day 1 CPT is not being eliminated, the ability to continue enrolling in consecutive degree programs at the same or a lower educational level is changing.

Students who complete a degree program after September 15, 2026, may not enroll in another program at the same or a lower educational level while remaining in F-1 status.

For example, you cannot complete one master’s degree and then enroll in a second master’s degree or an associate degree under F-1 status.

Instead, students must demonstrate upward academic progression, such as moving from a master’s degree to a doctoral program.

Have More Questions? BAU Is Here to Help.

The new DHS regulations represent one of the biggest changes to F-1 student status in decades, but they don’t change your opportunity to study in the United States. For many students, the transition will happen gradually, and the new rules include several provisions designed to make that process easier.

As with any immigration policy update, it’s important to rely on trusted information. While social media and online forums often contain rumors or outdated advice, the Federal Register remains the official source for the complete DHS regulation and guidance.

Whether you’re considering studying at Bay Atlantic University or you’re already part of our international student community, you don’t have to navigate these changes alone. Our Designated School Official (DSO) team is here to answer your questions, explain your options, and support you throughout your academic journey.

We’ll also continue updating the BAU website with student-friendly guides, FAQs, and the latest information as new guidance becomes available. Be sure to check back regularly, and don’t hesitate to contact our DSO Office if you have questions about your individual situation.