F-1 and J-1 Immigration Updates

New F-1/J-1 Regulations

Faculty/Staff FAQ

Q1. If a current F-1 student travels outside the US during winter break, will they lose these transition benefits? 

A1. Yes, students who are in F-1 status in Fall 2026 and who exit the U.S. during the winter break will lose their transition period benefits. They will have F-1 status only through the Admit Until Date granted by the U.S. Port of Entry If they are graduating in Fall or Spring and wish to engage in OPT, they will need to file with USCIS (after obtaining their CGE issued OPT I-20) both an application for employment authorization and an application for an extension of status with filing fees for each (currently $470 +$420). 

Q2. If you issue I-20s for up to 5 or 6 years, but the F1 visa status is granted for 4 years max, how does that work? What did I misunderstand here? 

A2. The I-20 provides eligibility for the F-1 status. The Department of Homeland Security (through USCIS or CBP) grants status. So, we are indicating a period of eligibility based upon the normal timeframe for degree completion (as F-1 regulations require us to do). Then, DHS will grant an initial 4 years plus 60 or 30 days of F-1 status and will then need to review an extension of status for the remaining year(s) of the program. Students will either need to apply for an extension of status through USCIS or travel internationally and re-enter the U.S. asking that Customs and Border Protection at the US Port of Entry grant an extension of F-1 status. If extending through USCIS, they should file as early as possible (probably 180 days before their status end date – no official guidance on this timeframe). They will be authorized for continuing study and on-campus employment for 240 days after their current F-1 status end date while the USCIS application is pending, provided it was timely filed before their I-20 end date and the filing fee was successfully processed. 

Q3. For PhD students, when do they need to request an extension of stay? After 4 years or after 5 years? Do we know what the extension process will look like? most of our students take at least 5 years for a PhD. Is it recommended to try to readjust curriculum and research goals to graduate in 4 years going forward? 

A3. PhD students will need to pay careful attention to both their I-20 end date and their I-94 admit until date (if they have one) to determine when to file for an extension with USCIS. They should be able to file an extension of status application with USCIS 180 days before their status end date. Because the admit until date can change every time they re-enter the U.S., there is not a specific timeframe for every student or cohort.  

If students need/want to extend their status inside the U.S., they will first ensure that they have an I-20 document valid for the necessary extension period. Then, they will submit online that I-20 with an I-539 form, documentation of funding, transcripts, and any other documentation USCIS requires, along with a filing fee. They should be able to do so 180 days in advance of their F-1 status end date (there is no earliest date specified) and no later than the day before their F-1 status ends. USCIS uses universal time. So, filing on the last day of status is risky. Students will be legally authorized to study and be employed on campus for 240 days beyond their F-1 status end date while the extension application is pending, provided it was timely filed and the filing fee successfully processed. 

In the alternative, students can travel internationally and apply for extended F-1 status at the US Port of Entry. Both extension inside the US and travel and extending through exit and re-entry carry risks. If they want an opinion on which is better for them, they will need to hire an immigration attorney for that advice. 

The regulation provides for the extension process to accommodate academic programs that take more than 4 years. So, there is no need to  adjust  curriculum in response to  the regulation. 

Q4. How are current PhD students affected that are already in their 5th or 6th year of study? 

A4. Students currently in their 5th or 6th year of study will fall under the transition period until they travel internationally. The transition period gives them F-1 status through the end date on the last I-20 produced prior to September 15, 2026 plus 60 days, or through November 14, 2030, whichever is shorter. When they next re-enter the U.S. from international travel, they will be granted a specific Admit Until Date by the U.S. Port of Entry. That date should correspond to the end date on the current I-20 they’re using for travel plus 30 days. Customs and Border Protection has broad discretion, though, and can choose whatever date they believe is appropriate based upon the documentation the student presents and the way they answer any questions. 

 

Q5. Can graduate students still obtain an in-flight MS? 

A5. We do not yet have guidance regarding secondary degrees, but our assumption is that students can still obtain in-flight Masters as long as the current I-20 indicates that they are in a doctoral program and they will continue in the original degree program listed on their I-20.  

Students will need from their academic department a letter on department letterhead explaining that they were admitted to a PhD, they were then granted a Masters while continuing the PhD which is a common practice, and this action did not delay degree completion in any way. 

Starting September 15, 2026, students who receive an in-flight Masters with the I-20 showing they are enrolled in a doctoral program will no longer be able to apply for OPT based upon the in-flight Masters, but will able to apply for OPT upon completion of the doctoral program. 

Students who are unable to complete the doctoral program and who transition to Masters instead will likely need to exit the U.S. and end their F-1 status. The regulation and likely the government immigration system will not allow the CGE to update the I-20 as required to show the Masters level.  They will not be able to transition on to post-completion OPT at the Masters level in this case. They will not be eligible to transfer their F-1 status to another school. Although it is risky and not guaranteed, they may be able to exit, apply for a new I-20 for a new degree program, apply for a new F-1 visa stamp, and attempt to apply for a new F-1 status at the U.S. Port of Entry, but both the US consulate and US Port of Entry have broad discretion to deny the visa and entry. 

Q6. Our department has in-flight MS degrees which are typically added after they're admitted to the doctoral program…  How would this be impacted by this rule? Would we need to admit them under the MS degree instead moving forward? 

A6. As long as the in-flight Masters does not delay PhD degree completion, the student does not stop at the Masters, and you provide a letter explaining that the student was admitted to a PhD and the credential was added while they completed the original educational objective, there should be no reason to alter your practice of granting in-flight Masters. Admitting the student to a Masters first with the intention of later editing their degree program to a PhD will only result in the student needing to file for an extension of status with USCIS earlier in their program rather than later. 

Q7. What would count as "poor grades"? Multiple Fs or just one? 

A7. There is no definition of “poor grades” in the rule, regulation, or guidance. DHS will likely use their discretion when reviewing a student’s application for F-1 status at a U.S. Port of Entry or application for extension at USCIS. Students should be prepared to answer government questions regarding any D or F grade even if their overall GPA does not drop below the minimum required by the university.  

It will be more important than ever for students who are encountering mental health or medical issues to be seen by a physician or psychologist as quickly as possible in the semester in which they are struggling and to obtain documentation from that physician or psychologist regarding how their condition impacted their academic performance. Even if they do not seek a medical reduced courseload from the CGE, they may need that documentation at a later time to explain the poor performance. We encourage students to contact us regarding a medical reduced courseload in their immigration record before the semester ends, since the government immigration system does not allow retroactive approval. 

Q8. For students who cannot change their major their first year, what about students who are admitted into a pre or NFA major and are eligible to move out of that major into their major fully in the first year? Does this fall into that category?  

A8. As long as the CIP code remains the same between the pre- or NFA, it should not be seen as a major change in the immigration system. There’s nothing for us to change if the CIP remains the same. That being said, there is currently no official government guidance or protocol for this yet.  

Q9. Will the new rule impact international students' eligibility for applying for dual enrollment (e.g., PhD in home department + Master in a different program)? 

A9. We do not yet have guidance on secondary degree programs. But, USCIS is likely to view this as a way to artificially extend the F-1 status or a way to enter a different program from what was approved at the US Consulate and US Port of Entry. If students are able to complete both degrees within the 6 year I-20 eligibility period and if the degrees are closely related, then students may be successful with USCIS extensions for their 5th and 6th year of study. Needing additional time to complete a secondary degree is not an acceptable reason for extension under the F-1 regulations. We will not be able to issue an I-20 for that reason and USCIS will not approve an extension of status for that reason. 

Q10. Dual degree for graduate students, such as PhD and then an MBA - would this be allowable? 

A10. Students will not be able to pursue an in-person MBA after completing their PhD since the new regulation does not allow enrolling in a lower degree level after completing a degree at a higher level. The student could complete an online MBA from outside the US since the student would no longer be impacted by US federal immigration regulations after ending their F-1 status and exiting the US. Students may be able to pursue the MBA at the same time they are completing the PhD, as long as they can complete both degrees in 6 years or less.  

Although it is risky, students may have the option of exiting the U.S. after completion of their PhD, applying for a new I-20 for an MBA, paying a new SEVIS fee, applying for a new F-1 visa at a US consulate outside the US, and attempting to apply for a new F-1 status at the U.S. Port of Entry. They are unlikely to be approved for a visa or allowed to re-enter in this scenario, but the student can decide whether to take the risk or not. We cannot guarantee that this method will work. We have recently had students denied visas because they have already obtained a Masters degree in their home country and they wish to pursue a second one (in a different field) in the U.S.  

Q11. Should the DS-2019 extension be done earlier? If so, how early can a DS-2019 extension be requested prior to the coverage end date? 

A11. We have recently been extending and issuing DS-2019 forms for paid post-docs or non-tenure teaching faculty for the maximum duration – 5 years, since the standard university maximum for post-doctoral research programs is 5 years. So, you shouldn’t need to extend most DS-2019 forms. Most post-docs will likely opt to travel to extend their J-1 status, rather than apply for an extension of status inside the U.S. We anticipate the earliest a J-1 will be able to ask for a USCIS extension (if they choose this route rather than traveling to extend) is 180 days before their J-1 end date. 

Q12. Will there be problems extending a scholar’s  J-1 status for next year (the 5th year) under the new changes? 

A12. Each scholar will have a unique situation with regard to extensions. If they’ve ever been arrested in the U.S., if they failed to timely extend their insurance, if they worked without authorization, or if they have a pending green card application, they could have problems extending their J-1 status. We will advise all scholars to seek advice from an immigration attorney before filing their I-539 with USCIS or deciding to travel to extend their status.  

Q13. Will it be possible for a scholar to leave the US for vacation after Sept 15? Will leaving the country result in stay duration changes or problems with DS-2019 extension?  

A13. Yes, it will be possible for most in J-1 status to leave the U.S. for vacation, provided they have a valid J-1 visa stamp in their passport and unexpired DS-2019 with unexpired travel validation for their return. They will no longer have a duration of status I-94 when they return. They will have a specific admit until date on their I-94. Their J-1 status and employment authorization ends on that date. Be sure to reverify their I-9 after every re-entry to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection has broad discretion to choose the admit until date they think is appropriate. 

Q14. Will we (admissions/academic departments) have to deny international students starting in SP27 who apply for our master's degree but who already have a completed master's degree from another U.S. institution? 

A14. It’s your department’s choice whether to admit a student who has already completed a Masters at another U.S. institution. The student will not be permitted to transfer their F-1 immigration status inside the U.S. This will be strictly prohibited. If a student in this situation is admitted, we can advise the student on the option to exit the U.S., apply for a new I-20, apply for a new F-1 visa, and re-enter with a new F-1 status. They are unlikely to be approved for a visa or allowed to re-enter in this scenario, but the student can decide whether to take the risk or not. We cannot guarantee that this method will work. We have recently had students denied visas because they have already obtained a Masters degree in their home country and they wish to pursue a second one (in a different field) in the U.S.  

 

Q15. How will the process work for students who were admitted as Masters but then changed to a PhD this year or after Sept 14? 

A15. Students who are changed to PhD prior to September 15 can change level and extend their F-1 status by obtaining an updated I-20 from the CGE. Please let us know when this is happening. Our system generally cannot identify level changes that do not go through the formal admission process. Those who need to change level after September 14 will need to both obtain their updated I-20 and apply for an extension through USCIS (with a filing fee) to extend their F-1 status past the end date on the I-20 issued prior to September 15, 2026 or, if they have a valid F-1 visa with available entries, they can choose to travel internationally and apply for an extension F-1 status at the U.S. Port of Entry. 

Q16. How long will it take them to receive notification on the extension for the PhD students? During the time in which that extension is being considered, what's their status? 

A16. USCIS is currently estimating wait time for an I-539 extension of status for F or J to be approximately 5 months. That wait time is likely to increase as more applications are filed after September 15, 2026. There is no upper limit on USCIS processing time for these types of applications, and there will be no premium (expedited) processing option. Students will need to file their extensions as early as possible. There is not yet guidance on how early they can file, but the best guess is 180 days. While the application is pending with USCIS, students will be in a pending F-1 status, and they will be authorized to study and work on-campus for 240 days after their F-1 status end date if their I-539 was timely filed and the filing fee was processed successfully. International travel and re-entry to extend the F-1 status will be an option for students who have a valid F-1 visa stamp (with available entries) in their passport. Students can choose to abandon their USCIS extension by traveling and applying for their extended F-1 status upon re-entry. Students with a valid F-1 visa stamp in their passport do not need to travel to their home country to utilize the extension by travel option. Both extension inside the U.S. and international travel carry risks. 

Q17.  Is the master’s level 4 years of eligibility?  

A17. No, DHS has not approved us to issue initial I-20's for 4 years for any Masters program. Masters program lengths vary based upon the required number of credit hours and the structure of the program. Students in lock-step Masters programs that are structured to be completed in one year (like Business Analytics) will receive a one year I-20 and corresponding one year and 60-day (transition period) or 30- day F-1 status. Students in a 3-year Masters degree (like Acting) will receive a 3-year I-20 and corresponding 3 years and 60 day (transition period) or 30 day F-1 status. Our DHS certification (I-17 form) lists most Masters as 2-year programs according to the information provided in the university bulletin and/or on the academic programs' websites. We can ask DHS for approval of different program lengths as needed, but we must back that up with official and public university guidance on the normal program length for that particular program.  

Q18. Will CGE send a list of current students to colleges who need to request an extension or will CGE be reaching out to those students directly with next steps? 

A18. Students who are reaching their I-20 expiration date get weekly automated emails from Nole Start informing them of the need to extend their eligibility for F-1 status. Expiring students have been getting those weekly emails for several years, and in most cases, they follow the directions in those emails before their grace period expires. Those automated emails will continue with additional information about the USCIS extension process or extension through travel.  

Students will need to monitor their own Admit Until Date (AUD) after international travel, though. We are not automatically updated when students re-enter the U.S. from international travel, and their AUD can change every time they re-enter. Since the end date of the I-20 will not always match the end date of their F-1 status, students will need to keep their personal calendar/reminders updated regularly and ask the CGE questions well in advance of their status ending date. In our monthly reminder emails to all F-1 students, we will remind them to check their I-94, update their own calendar with their status end date, and ask questions if they are in doubt.  

Students with on-campus employment will also need to provide a copy of their new I-94 to the HR Representative in the hiring department after every re-entry to the US, since I-9 reverification will be required to update the employment authorization end date. 

Q19. Regarding this extension with USCIS, is this something departments will need to monitor and flag, or will CGE be reaching out to these students approaching 4 years like you all do with I-20 extensions? 

A19. Students will need to keep track of their own Admit Until Date (AUD) granted after international travel or a USCIS extension. We will pull up each student's I-94 record each time we advise them, process their immigration requests (CPT, OPT, reduced courseload, I-20 extensions, adding dependents, etc.), and when shortening their I-20 for posted graduation. Since students can freely travel internationally within the one-year validity period of an I-20 travel signature and USCIS does not notify us of application approvals, the I-94 can change from day to day without our knowledge. The company that maintains and updates Nole Start is developing an alert for expiring I-94's, but there is no direct communication between Nole Start and USCIS or CBP. Students will need to provide us updates on their new Admit Until Date (AUD) for the alert and automated messaging to be useful and accurate. Students with on-campus employment must also provide their employer the new I-94 granted after international travel or a USCIS approved I-94 extension so that the employer can reverify the I-9 with the new employment authorization end date. If departments notice an I-94 admit until date that is expiring sooner than expected or before the payroll appointment ends, they should reach out to the student and cge@fsu.edu.  

Q20. How likely will the new duration of status be brought to the courts (should we take time to create different PhD structures)? 

A20. Court challenges are possible with any new regulation. Academic programs should not change the way degrees are structured based upon immigration regulations. In most cases, students will still have the ability to extend their F-1 status through a USCIS extension or travel. The only students who may encounter roadblocks are those from visa ban countries. They could face both the inability to travel and the possibility of USCIS reinstituting a pause on processing applications for citizens of visa ban countries.  

Q21. How can we as faculty/graduate advisers best support students who will be affected by this measure at this point? 

A21. Academic advisors can provide each international student a detailed plan for degree completion with target dates for each step toward completion that shows how they can graduate within the "normal" length of the degree. Then, students will be able to document meeting those goals or any deviations for medical or compelling academic reasons (advisor change, change in research topic, unexpected research delays). The student will then be ready to provide this documentation to USCIS with their extension application. If advisors notice that students are struggling academically in a given semester, they can reach out to the CGE before that semester ends. We cannot retroactively approve a reduced courseload in the student's government immigration record after the semester has ended regardless of the reason for the academic problems – the government's system does not allow it. Students who have completed all coursework will need to move quickly on to their next steps toward degree completion. Academic advisors can help by encouraging students to stay on track toward degree completion and to seek any help they may need (counseling, learning difference assessment, tutoring, writing assistance, field specific librarians, etc.) 

Q22. Students who come from a 1-time entry country only have the option for extension through USCIS? 

A22. Yes, that is correct. The length of time required for those students to obtain a new one-entry F-1 visa at a US consulate outside the US makes it difficult for them to extend their F-1 status through international travel. If future visa bans are implemented for those one- entry countries and there are corresponding holds on USCIS adjudication, those students will have no options for extending their status. 

The new regulation at https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/07/17/2026-14439/establishing-a-fixed-time-period-of-admission-and-an-extension-of-stay-procedure-for-nonimmigrant will go into effect September 15, 2026 and impacts both new incoming students arriving after that date as well as international students who are already in the US. The new regulation establishes a fixed ending date for the F-1 and J-1 status, rather than duration of status admission that allowed the Designated School Officials and Responsible Officers at the Center for Global Engagement to easily extend a student or scholar’s legal immigration status ending date by issuing an extended certificate of eligibility (I-20 or DS-2019), and the rule also imposes additional academic restrictions. There is an extension of stay application process through USCIS for students needing more time to complete their program. The new regulation also limits transfers to new institutions and changes of majors. (Please note that additional guidance and interpretation from the federal government may result in some of the following needing to be updated. We will make updates if the information changes).

 

STUDENTS WHO ARE IN F-1 OR J-1 VISA STATUS AND WHO REMAIN INSIDE THE U.S. IN THAT STATUS ON AND AFTER SEPTEMBER 15, 2026

Students who were inside the U.S. in valid F-1 status on September 15, 2026 will have legal status through:

  • through November 13, 2030 OR
  • the actual program end date on the I-20 issued before September 15, 2026 plus 60 days OR
  • for students who graduate earlier than the end date on the I-20, 30 days beyond their diploma date for the degree level listed on the I-20, whichever of the above is shorter.

Students who were inside the U.S. in valid J-1 status on September 15, 2026 will have legal status through:

  • the actual program end date on the DS-2019 issued before September 15, 2026 plus 30 days, OR
  • through November 13, 2030 OR
  • for students who graduate earlier than the end date on the DS-2019, 30 days beyond their diploma date for the degree level listed on the DS-2019, whichever of the above is shorter.

An I-20 or DS-2019 that is terminated or shortened will end the F-1 or J-1 status earlier than the end date noted above.

Extension of Status Process: If additional time beyond the above is needed to complete a degree program or to change to the next higher degree program, students will need to apply for an Extension of Status through USCIS and pay a fee of $470 for paper submission or $420 online before the end date on the I-94. Students will first need to request an extended I-20/DS-2019 form through Nole Start (or through their Fulbright sponsoring agency, if applicable) that they will submit to USCIS with a completed and signed Form I-539 with applicable fee to request an extension of status. USCIS will review the application to ensure sufficient progress toward degree completion, proper maintenance of status, and absence of any inadmissibility and may apply stricter standards and use its own discretion to determine if an extension of stay will be approved.

Students in F-1 status are allowed to continue studying and working on campus for up to 240 days while the Extension of Status application is pending provided the I-539 form was timely filed and they are otherwise maintaining status. There is no premium processing option for Extension of Status applications. Students in J-1 status must request an extension of status through USCIS and also request work authorization from the sponsor listed in box 2 of the DS-2019 form.

Another option for students who need more time for degree completion or to change to the next higher degree level is to exit the US and re-enter with an unexpired F-1 visa stamp with available entries, an I-20/DS-2019 endorsed for travel, and a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the anticipated date of re-entry to the U.S. Students who are citizens of travel banned countries (see below) will not generally be able to use this option. Upon re-entering the US, the student will receive an I-94 valid through the I-20 end date plus 30 days or for a maximum of 4 years plus 30 days past their date of entry, whichever is shorter. 

Students who need more time to complete their degree due to academic probation or suspension will not be eligible for an extension of status.

Academic Implications: Graduate students are not permitted to change majors or transfer to another institution unless they have completed the degree level listed on the I-20 that was issued before September 15, 2026.

Undergraduate students are not permitted to change majors or transfer to another institution in their first year at that degree level.

After completing a degree, students are only permitted to begin a program of study at the next higher degree level. Study in another degree at the same or lower level is not permitted.

Students who have been on academic probation are not eligible to transfer their immigration record to a new institution.

Optional Practical Training: Students who graduate in Summer 2026 or Fall 2026, who are inside the US in valid F-1 status, and who do not travel outside the US on or after September 15, 2026, can apply for OPT by no later than 60 days after their diploma date by requesting and receiving an OPT I-20 from the CGE and filing the I-765 with that I-20. An I-539 extension of status application will not also be required before March 15, 2027 for students who meet the above criteria.

Students who become eligible for OPT after Summer 2026 or Fall 2026 or who have traveled internationally after September 15, 2026 will need to file both the I-765 and the I-539 with USCIS, along with the required documentation and fees.

J-1 Post-Completion Academic Training: Students in J-1 status who are reaching the end of their status (as noted above) may require an extension of their I-94 and J-1 status after receiving written approval for post-completion training from the program sponsor listed in box 2 of the DS-2019 form. After receiving a DS-2019 that indicates the academic training authorization, students may either apply for an extension of status through USCIS using form I-539 or exit the U.S. and apply for an extension of status at a U.S. Port of Entry, provided they have an unexpired J-1 visa on the date of re-entry, an extended DS-2019 with the academic training notation and signed for travel, and a passport valid for 6 months beyond their re-entry date. Academic training authorization is not automatic or guaranteed. Students should check with their program sponsor first before accepting a job offer or making any travel plans. There are no transition period provisions for J-1 post-completion academic training.

STUDENTS BEGINNING A NEW F-1 or J-1 STATUS IN SPRING 2027 OR LATER

New international students entering the US on a new F-1 or J-1 record or approved by USCIS for a change of status to F-1 or J-1 on or after September 15, 2026 will receive a specific program end date on their I-94 (document that grants legal status) that will be no more than four years for doctoral degrees, 1-3 years for MA/MS degrees depending on program requirements, and no more than four years for an undergraduate degree, plus 30 days to cover a post-completion grace period.

If a student completes their degree prior to the I-94 ending date, their status will end 30 days after their diploma date, regardless of the end date on the I-94. Students wishing to enroll in the next higher degree level at FSU or at another institution will need to apply for their change of level I-20/DS-2019 or request a transfer of their immigration record before or within that 30-day window.

Extension of Status Process: If additional time beyond the end date on the I-94 is needed to complete a degree program or to change to the next higher degree program, students will need to apply for an Extension of Status through USCIS and pay a fee of $470 for paper submission or $420 online before the end date on the I-94. If their I-20/DS-2019 does not already cover the additional time needed for degree completion, students will first need to request an extended or change of level I-20/DS-2019 form through Nole Start (or through their Fulbright sponsoring agency, if applicable) that they will submit to USCIS with a completed and signed Form I-539 and applicable fee to request an extension of status. USCIS will review the application to ensure sufficient progress toward degree completion, proper maintenance of status, and absence of any inadmissibility and may apply stricter standards and use its own discretion to determine if an extension of stay will be approved.

Students in F-1 status are allowed to continue studying and working on campus for up to 240 days while the Extension of Status application is pending provided the I-539 form was timely filed and they are otherwise maintaining status. There is no premium processing option for Extension of Status applications. Students in J-1 status must request work authorization from the sponsor listed in box 2 of the DS-2019 form.

Another option for students who need more time for degree completion or to change to the next higher degree level is to exit the US and re-enter with an unexpired F-1 visa stamp with available entries, an I-20/DS2019 endorsed for travel, and a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the anticipated date of re-entry to the U.S. Students who are citizens of travel banned countries (see below) will not generally be able to use this option. Upon re-entering the US, the student will receive an I-94 valid through the I-20 end date plus 30 days or for a maximum of 4 years plus 30 days past their date of entry, whichever is shorter.

Students who need more time to complete their degree due to academic probation or suspension will not be eligible for an extension of status.

Academic Implications: Graduate students are not permitted to change majors or transfer to another institution unless they have completed the degree level listed on their I-20.

Undergraduate students are not permitted to change majors or transfer to another institution in their first year at that degree level.

After completing a degree, students are only permitted to begin a program of study at the next higher degree level. Study in another degree at the same or lower level is not permitted.

Students who have been on academic probation are not eligible to transfer their immigration record to a new institution.

F-1 Optional Practical Training: Students will need to first request and receive their I-20 recommending Optional Practical Training (this process has not changed with the new regulation). Then, they will need to file both the I-765 work authorization application and the I-539 Extension of Status application with USCIS, along with the required fees, to seek approval for Optional Practical Training.

J-1 Post Completion Academic Training: Students in J-1 status may require an extension of their I-94 and J-1 status after receiving written approval for post-completion training from the program sponsor listed in box 2 of the DS-2019 form. After receiving a DS-2019 that indicates the academic training authorization, students may either apply for an extension of status through USCIS using form I-539 or exit the U.S. and apply for an extension of status at a U.S. Port of Entry, provided they have an unexpired J-1 visa on the date of re-entry, an extended DS-2019 with the academic training notation and signed for travel, and a passport valid for 6 months beyond their re-entry date. Academic training authorization is not automatic or guaranteed. Students should check with their program sponsor first before accepting a job offer or making any travel plans.

IMPACT OF INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL DURING F-1/J-1 PROGRAM

International students who travel internationally and re-enter the U.S. after September 15, 2026 to continue study in F-1 or J-1 status will receive a specific end date on their I-94. This end date should correspond to the program end date on their I-20/DS-2019 plus 30 days or four years from their date of re-entry to the U.S., whichever is shorter. All students who travel outside the U.S. and re-enter in F-1 status after September 15, 2026 will have a 30-day grace period.

If additional time beyond the period granted on the I-94 received after international travel is needed to complete a degree program, to change to the next higher degree program, or apply for post-completion OPT, students can either apply to USCIS for an extension (after obtaining the appropriate I-20) or travel internationally again to extend their status. More information regarding the above is also available at Final Rule: Establishing a Fixed Time Period of Admission and an Extension of Stay Procedure Quick Facts | Study in the States and Final Rule: Establishing a Fixed Time Period of Admission and an Extension of Stay Procedure FAQ | Study in the States.

Recent Updates that May Impact International Travel

Travel bans effective January 1, 2026 prohibit U.S. visa issuance for citizens of the following countries pursuant to the Presidential Proclamation - Restricting and Limiting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the Security of the United States – The White House:

  • Afghanistan
  • Angola
  • Antigua and Barbuda
  • Benin
  • Burkina Faso
  • Burma
  • Burundi
  • Chad
  • Republic of the Congo
  • Cote d ‘Ivoire
  • Cuba
  • Dominica
  • Equatorial Guinea
  • Eritrea
  • Gabon
  • The Gambia
  • Haiti
  • Iran
  • Laos
  • Libya
  • Malawi
  • Mali
  • Mauritania
  • Niger
  • Nigeria
  • Palestinian Authority Document Holders
  • Senegal
  • Sierra Leone
  • Somalia
  • South Sudan
  • Sudan
  • Syria
  • Tanzania
  • Togo
  • Tonga
  • Venezuela
  • Yemen
  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe

Although the presidential proclamation clarifies in Section 6 that the bans are not applicable to those whose have valid visas that were issued prior to January 1, 2026, Customs and Border Protection always has broad discretion to determine whether a traveler is eligible for entry to the U.S. for their stated purpose.

Students who have a valid B visa in their passport cannot use that visa to enter the U.S. for study, as that status strictly prohibits degree-seeking course attendance and on-campus employment.

The above travel bans do not cause visa revocation or status termination. Students from the above countries may remain in the U.S. regardless of whether they have a valid F-1 visa stamp in their passport.

  • U.S. Consulates are implementing enhanced vetting and screening (administrative processing) during the visa application process pursuant to an executive order issued on January 20, 2025. Most administrative processing is completed in 30-90 days but can take longer.
  • The U.S. State Department has instructed that visa applicants should apply for non-immigrant visas only in their country of last permanent residence.
  • Citizens of several countries receive a three-month validity, one entry only F-1 or J-1 visa. Check the reciprocity tables at prior to planning travel U.S. Visa: Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country

Carry your I-94 Paper Printout at all Times

As the U.S. government intensifies immigration compliance efforts, it is extremely important that students in F-1 and J-1 immigration status comply with a law that has been in effect since 1952. Section 264(e) of the Immigration and Nationality Act requires nonimmigrants over the age of 18 to carry their “evidence of registration” document at all times. For F-1 and J-1 students, this is the Form I-94 Arrival Record. If you have not already done so, print your most recent I-94 arrival record from I-94 Official Website to paper and carry it with you at all times in a purse, pocket, or backpack. F-1 visa holders who are engaged in post-completion OPT or STEM OPT should also carry their EAD.

We recommend that everyone also have available an electronic or paper copy of their most recent I-20 or DS-2019 and a paper or electronic copy of their passport biographical information page, though these are not strictly required by the above law.

INA 264(e) further guides that “Any alien who fails to comply with the provisions of this subsection shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall upon conviction for each offense be fined not to exceed $100 or be imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both.”

If someone requests your immigration registration document:

  • You may politely ask for the person's law enforcement credentials - their badge, badge number, business card, or other identifying document.
  • You may politely ask what law enforcement agency they represent if you are in doubt.
  • You may write down any information you obtain about the person's credentials, but you might not be permitted to take a photo.
  • Calmly tell the law enforcement officer where your document is located and show the paper printout of your I-94. You do not need to provide additional documentation unless asked. 
  • If you do not have a paper printout of your I-94 or your EAD with you, calmly ask the officer if you can find it on your phone and tell them where your phone is located on your person or in your bag. Go to I-94 Official Website. Ensure that you have your passport number memorized or handy at all times as the I-94 lookup requires it.
  • Do not relinquish any documents to the individual if you are at all in doubt about their credentials, but just show the I-94 or EAD and keep it in your possession.
  • Never lie if asked if you are a U.S. citizen. The consequences are worse than not having your I-94 available.
  • You have the right to refuse a law enforcement officer entry to your home, vehicle, or workplace without a warrant or court order that shows your name and that is signed by a judge.
  • Immigration officers can request immigration registration documents without a warrant on any bus, train, or immigration checkpoint within 100 miles of any U.S. border. All of Florida falls within this 100-mile border area.
  • In the unlikely event that you are detained for not having your registration document with you, you have the right to call to an immigration attorney and your country's consulate. You may also be able to call either the CGE - 850-644-1702 or a roommate, friend, or family member who can help provide your I-94.

If you are in J-1 status and IIE or Amideast is your immigration sponsor (see box 2 of your DS-2019 form), follow any additional directions that agency has provided to you regarding carrying documentation and ensure that you know their emergency phone number.

Keep your SEVIS Address Updated at All Times

Section 266(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (also a longstanding law) warns that “Any alien or any parent or legal guardian in the United States of any alien who fails to give written notice [of an address change]...as required by section 265 of this title, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall, upon conviction thereof, be fined not to exceed $200 or be imprisoned not more than thirty days, or both. Irrespective of whether an alien is convicted and punished as herein provided, any alien who fails to give written notice to the Attorney General, as required by section 265, shall be taken into custody and removed in the manner provided by chapter 4 of this title, unless such alien establishes to the satisfaction of the Attorney General that such failure was reasonably excusable or was not willful.”

All noncitizens living in the United States must report any change of address within 10 days of the address change. Students whose F-1 or J-1 immigration status is sponsored by FSU (J-1 visa holders, see box 2 of your DS-2019 form) will update their address using these instructions: New and Current Address and Phone Number Updates | Center for Global Engagement

Students whose J-1 immigration status is sponsored by IIE or Amideast (see box 2 of your DS-2019) must follow that agency's instructions regarding updating their address. FSU does not report student address changes to IIE or Amideast.

Executive Order and Anticipated Law Could Impact F-1 and J-1 Status

The U.S. president recently signed an executive order titled Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism that mentions possible removal of international students who participate in protests or behaviors viewed as antisemitic. Congress is likely to pass in 2025 a similar law - the Antisemitism Awareness Act. Students in F-1 or J-1 status should carefully weigh the serious potential consequences of participating in protests inside the U.S. and particularly on U.S. university campuses.

J-1 students who are sponsored by IIE or Amideast (see box 2 of the DS-2019) should carefully follow any advice provided by that agency regarding participating in protests as some scholarship programs may have additional restrictions or guidance.

Beware of Imposters!

International students are likely to be targeted by scammers posing as law enforcement or the tax agency, Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Remember that:

  • Law enforcement and government officials will not contact you by phone, text, or email. Scammers do spoof official looking numbers, though. (Please note that the CGE will contact you by phone or email, but feel free to contact us directly at 850-644-1702 or cge@fsu.edu if you are in doubt about the information you are receiving.)
  • If someone approaches you in-person threatening legal action or deportation, you can ask for identification and call the FSU police at 850-644-1234. 
  • You have the right not to open your door to anyone claiming to be law enforcement or the IRS.
  • F-1 and J-1 students do not use the AR-11 form to update addresses, but rather use these instructions - https://cge.fsu.edu/new-and-current-address-and-phone-number-updates if their immigration status is sponsored by FSU (see box 2 of the DS-2019). J-1 students sponsored by IIE or Amideast must notify that agency of their address updates within 10 days.
  • F-1 and J-1 students are permitted to remain inside the U.S. with an expired visa stamp in their passport. The unexpired I-94 along with the I-20 or DS-2019 are the documents that grant legal status inside the U.S. (Please pay attention to CGE emails that warn about termination or expiration of your J-1 status, and contact us directly at 850-644-1702 or cge@fsu.edu with any questions or doubts.)
  • The IRS will not contact you directly by phone, text, email, or in-person about tax stimulus checks that were issued incorrectly.
  • Remember that bribing any official with gift cards, cash, or Zelle payments to get out of trouble is a criminal offense. So, if someone posing as law enforcement or a government official is asking for such a payment, you can be assured it's a scam.

Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself from scams:

  • Set up voicemail on your phone if you have not already done so.
  • DO NOT answer phone calls from anyone you do not know and instead let the call go to voicemail.
  • DO NOT respond to texts from anyone you do not know.
  • BLOCK callers who leave scam or unsolicited marketing/advertising voicemails.
  • DO NOT click on links in emails. Use a browser to go directly to websites you know and trust.
  • HANG UP or do not respond to anyone contacting you claiming to be a government or law enforcement official. Government officials will not contact you by phone or text. Emails from USCIS are automated notifications of progress on applications only.
  • Contact the CGE directly at 850-644-1702 or cge@fsu.edu if you have concerns about your immigration status.
  • Contact the FSU Police at 850-644-1234 if someone claims you have committed a crime.
  • DO NOT join family and friend cell plans with people you do not know.
  • DO NOT include a phone number on your LinkedIn account or publicly posted resume and consider setting up a separate email address for social media, LinkedIn, and other publicly accessible websites/applications.
  • FORWARD suspected scam emails to abuse@fsu.edu and cge@fsu.edu.

If you fall victim to a scam, immediately notify the FSU Police – 850-644-1234. Students or scholars in J-1 status sponsored by FSU (see box 2 of the DS-2019) must also contact jscholar@fsu.edu immediately. J-1 students whose immigration status is sponsored by IIE or Amideast must contact that agency immediately. Reporting the scam to the Federal Trade Commission also assists national law enforcement agencies with finding scammers and alerting the public - https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/.