{"id":12767,"date":"2026-08-05T13:40:03","date_gmt":"2026-08-05T17:40:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/global-education\/?page_id=12767"},"modified":"2026-08-13T14:05:18","modified_gmt":"2026-08-13T18:05:18","slug":"elimination-of-duration-of-status-d-s-final-rule","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/global-education\/elimination-of-duration-of-status-d-s-final-rule\/","title":{"rendered":"Elimination of \u201cDuration of Status\u201d (D\/S) Final Rule"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<section class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-highlight highlight-box is-style-green\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Important:<\/strong> The Final Rule ends the policy known as \u201cDuration of Status (D\/S)\u201d for individuals in F (F-1\/F-2), J (J-1\/J-2), and I (International Media) nonimmigrant statuses. <strong>The information below is specific to individuals in F status only.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Disclaimer:<\/strong> <em>The information and updates provided on this website reflect our best current understanding of the new regulations and are provided for general informational and educational purposes only. This information is subject to change as we receive additional information. We will continually update this website to reflect forthcoming guidance from various agencies on both the interpretation and implementation of the regulations. Information on this webpage does not constitute legal advice. We request that any individuals with immigration related questions regarding the new regulations contact CGE directly<\/em> at <a href=\"mailto:globaleducation@bates.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><em>globaleducation@bates.edu<\/em><\/a><\/p>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-default has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-6678255b43e523b8aac8c1b202cc15e9 wp-block-paragraph\"> <strong>Overview<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">On Friday, July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a&nbsp;<a href=\"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\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Final Rule<\/a>&nbsp;indicating its intent to end the duration of status (D\/S) policy for nonimmigrants in F status. The implementation date of the Final Rule is&nbsp;<strong>September 15, 2026<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Student and Exchange Visitor Program\u2019s (SEVP) Study in the States website has addressed FAQs for the final rule for F-1 students.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/studyinthestates.dhs.gov\/final-rule-establishing-a-fixed-time-period-of-admission-and-an-extension-of-stay-procedure-faq\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">This information can be found on their website.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Final Rule&nbsp;<strong>does not<\/strong>&nbsp;change the maximum program length for most F-1 students. Students continue to be eligible to be admitted to and pursue their programs of study at Bates. F-1 students&nbsp;will continue to be issued Forms I-20 valid for the expected length of their program unless official guidance changes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What will change<\/strong>&nbsp;is how F-1 students are admitted into the U.S., the initial period of stay granted to an F visa holder, and the procedure for extension of stay if required in order to complete their program of study. Other academic restrictions will also be imposed on F-1 students, and are addressed below<em>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The current D\/S policy has allowed nonimmigrant students to remain in the U.S. for the full duration of their program of study, without having to travel or submit an application to USCIS to extend their F program if additional time is needed to complete it.<br><br>There are still many unknowns as to how the new rule will be implemented. The Center for Global Education is focused on this policy and its potential impact, and will continue to provide support and guidance. Below are key highlights of the rule. This information constitutes our best interpretation at this time. CGE will provide regular updates as DHS, USCIS, DOS, SEVP, and other agencies issue verifiable implementation guidance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"is-style-default has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-cc395efde7b39403a24f66563c20c2c6 wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Summary of Major Changes impacting International Students in F Visa Status<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>*Fixed Period of Admission<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>F-1 students admitted to the U.S. on or after September 15, 2026 will be admitted for a fixed period tied to the program dates listed on Form I-20, not to exceed four years, plus a 30-day grace period.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Current students admitted with D\/S can remain in the U.S. through the end date of their I-20, not to extend beyond 4 years past the rule effective date of September 15, 2026. They will not receive a new I-94 with an \u201cAdmit Until Date\u201d (AUD) unless they travel and re-enter or file an extension of stay (Form I-539) and receive an I-797A approval notice which will have a new I-94 with a fixed AUD attached on the bottom of the form.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>*Extensions of Stay for Students in F Status<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Starting September 15, 2026, all students who need additional time beyond the fixed admission period must apply to USCIS for an extension of stay.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The extension must be recommended by a Designated School Official (DSO) before the Form I-20 end date and the extension of stay petition (Form I-539) must be received by USCIS before the student\u2019s admission period expires. If the Form I-539 is filed in a timely manner, the student may remain in the United States in a period of authorized stay while the extension of stay petition is pending, until USCIS issues a decision.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>USCIS may require biometrics and, in some cases, an interview. USCIS has not yet provided information on  how these requirements will be administered. We will update this section with additional information once it is available.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>*Grace period:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The grace period after program completion is shortened to 30 days (from the current 60 days). Upon entry to the U.S. after September 15, the I-94 should reflect the new grace period.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>*Change of Educational Level for F Students<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>No F-1 student (graduate or undergraduate) can begin a new program at the same or a lower educational level after completing the program for which they were originally admitted.&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">*<strong>Transfers and change of program:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Undergraduate students cannot transfer institutions, change educational level, or change major(s) or minor(s) until they have completed one academic year of study. Changes to major(s) or minor(s), including adding a double major or removing a double major, can be done after the first year of study.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Graduate students cannot transfer institutions, change educational level, or change program(s) of study at any time during their academic program.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">*<strong>OPT\/STEM OPT:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Students applying for post-completion OPT or STEM OPT&nbsp;<strong>on or<\/strong>&nbsp;<strong>after March 18, 2027<\/strong>&nbsp;must apply for an extension of stay (Form I-539) through USCIS in addition to filing the employment authorization application (Form I-765). The timing and process of filing both applications are unknown at this time. We will update as additional information is available.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Transition Provision:<\/strong>&nbsp;Students applying for post-completion OPT or STEM OPT&nbsp;<strong>before March 18, 2027<\/strong>&nbsp;do not need to apply for an extension of stay (Form I-539) when they apply for employment authorization (Form I-765).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Note:<\/strong> The transition provision no longer applies to students who travel and reenter the U.S. on or after September 15, 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-2cde8c0e0f569339925ba1a094241b68\"><strong>General Questions<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"d6e7f95b-594c-4439-add7-4fb2f2671d18\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">Where can I find information about the final rule?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"d6e7f95b-594c-4439-add7-4fb2f2671d18\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You may find the text of the DHS final regulatory change <a href=\"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\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Additional information and an FAQ may be found on <a href=\"https:\/\/studyinthestates.dhs.gov\/final-rule-establishing-a-fixed-time-period-of-admission-and-an-extension-of-stay-procedure-faq\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">DHS Study in the States<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"b34e8117-3f5c-49ab-a124-29d76011a8b5\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">Does the new rule limit the ability of Bates to admit international students?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"b34e8117-3f5c-49ab-a124-29d76011a8b5\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. The new rule doesn&#8217;t limit our ability to admit students in any way.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"68cff980-1d66-462c-826d-90c4e07accfc\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">Does the new rule mean students can only stay in the U.S. for four years?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"68cff980-1d66-462c-826d-90c4e07accfc\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. The new rule does not create a four-year limit on F-1 immigration status. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead, four years is the maximum length of a single period of admission. Students may remain in F-1 status beyond four years if they continue to satisfy the applicable immigration requirements and apply for and obtain additional periods of authorized stay as and when necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Students participating in OPT or STEM OPT may also remain beyond their academic program when they continue to qualify for those benefits and apply for and obtain an additional period of authorized stay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The new rule changes how additional time is requested and obtained, not whether additional time is available.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"e94fa91f-4165-435f-b598-e2cf73cfa990\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">Does the new rule apply to all F-1 students?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"e94fa91f-4165-435f-b598-e2cf73cfa990\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, the rule applies to all F-1 students.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"1a10cee4-a973-4d1a-a5eb-dc6c081e611a\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">How does the rule apply to F-1 students?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"1a10cee4-a973-4d1a-a5eb-dc6c081e611a\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Students who enter the U.S. on or after September 15, 2026, will receive a fixed period of admission with an &#8220;Admit Until Date&#8221; (AUD) shown on their Form I-94.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Students who were admitted in F status <strong>before September 15, 2026<\/strong>, for D\/S, are covered by special transition provisions established in the regulation. <strong>This does not mean the new rule does not apply.<\/strong> Current students admitted with D\/S can remain in the U.S. through the end date of their I-20, not to extend beyond 4 years past the rule effective date of September 15, 2026. They will not receive a new I-94 with an AUD unless they travel and re-enter or file an extension of stay (EOS) and receive an I-797A approval notice which will have a new I-94 with a fixed AUD attached on the bottom of the form.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"3fa95e37-312c-4f03-b26f-184e5ab58d2e\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">Is the AUD different from the end date on my I-20?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"3fa95e37-312c-4f03-b26f-184e5ab58d2e\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Maybe. The AUD may be different from the program end date on the Form I-20:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>For individuals with programs longer than four years who are admitted under D\/S:<\/strong>&nbsp;The AUD should be four years from September 15, 2026 plus the grace period.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>For individuals with programs longer than four years who enter on or after September 15, 2026:<\/strong>&nbsp;The AUD should be four years from the program start date, plus a 30-day grace period.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>For students engaging in approved OPT or STEM OPT:<\/strong>&nbsp;The AUD should be the employment end date on the Employment Authorization Document, plus a 30-day grace period.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"a2e2769e-9958-4acb-8ad7-48bfaf97169d\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">Who determines the AUD?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"a2e2769e-9958-4acb-8ad7-48bfaf97169d\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It depends:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Students traveling to the United States will receive an AUD from CBP at a U.S. port of entry. The AUD will be on the student\u2019s Form I-94, \u201cArrival\/Departure Record,\u201d accessible from the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/i94.cbp.dhs.gov\/home\">Form I-94 website<\/a>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Students approved for an EOS or change to F-1 status within the U.S. (Form I-539) will receive an AUD from USCIS. The AUD will be listed on the Form I-94 attached to the Form I-797A, \u201cNotice of Action.\u201d&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"3f6d6f6f-ce3a-4d09-b44e-633a54552f69\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">How does this impact undergraduates who plan to graduate on time?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"3f6d6f6f-ce3a-4d09-b44e-633a54552f69\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you complete your degree within the period authorized on your Form I-94, you may never need to apply for an additional period of authorized stay while pursuing your undergraduate degree. However, if you later participate in OPT, require additional semesters to complete your program, begin a new program of study at a higher level of education, or otherwise remain in the United States beyond your AUD, you will need another period of authorized stay through either travel and readmission or an approved EOS.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"2e38b46a-46c8-4992-a205-b94c84064884\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">Can F-1 students change their major?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"2e38b46a-46c8-4992-a205-b94c84064884\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It depends. There are restrictions on when and the types of students that can change their major.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">F-1 students enrolled in programs at the undergraduate level cannot change their major during their first year of study.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"b0847637-65d0-4c21-a565-72b6c55f65a5\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">How does this impact graduating students who plan to apply for OPT?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"b0847637-65d0-4c21-a565-72b6c55f65a5\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are graduating in December 2026 or May 2027, and eligible to apply for OPT, there are additional factors to consider now, depending on timing. In the transition provisions, a student whose application for OPT is received by USCIS\u00a0<strong>before March 18, 2027,<\/strong>\u00a0does not need to also apply for an EOS. However,\u00a0<strong><em>this transition provision no longer applies if you travel and reenter the U.S. on or after September 15, 2026.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"bf70d945-ed83-47a7-972a-f4ecae40f2c1\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">Impact on students currently participating in OPT or STEM OPT<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"bf70d945-ed83-47a7-972a-f4ecae40f2c1\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because post-completion employment often extends beyond a student\u2019s initial period of admission, many students will eventually need another lawful period of authorized stay. Whether an EOS is required depends on factors including when the student entered the U.S., whether the transition provisions apply, the timing of any international travel, and the expiration of the student\u2019s current period of admission.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are currently on OPT and eligible to apply for STEM OPT, there are additional factors to consider now, depending on timing. In the transition provisions, a student whose application for STEM OPT is received by USCIS&nbsp;<strong>before March 18, 2027,<\/strong>&nbsp;does not need to also apply for an EOS. However,&nbsp;<strong><em>this transition provision no longer applies if you travel and reenter the U.S. on or after September 15, 2026.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"293fbe47-eaff-457b-885d-4fe3917aea46\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">Can current F-1 students travel and re-enter before September 15, 2026?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"293fbe47-eaff-457b-885d-4fe3917aea46\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, current international students can continue to travel, and if they return <strong>before Sept. 15, 2026,<\/strong> will be admitted in D\/S. However, as of Sept. 15, 2026, upon returning to the United States, these students will be admitted with a new fixed period of admission, which is the program end date on their Form I-20, up to a maximum of four years (plus a 30-day grace period). Students who have plans to travel outside the U.S. and re-enter&nbsp;<strong>on or after September 15, 2026<\/strong>&nbsp;should contact the DSO at <a href=\"mailto:globaleducation@bates.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">globaleducation@bates.edu<\/a> before travel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">**Students who are eligible and plan to apply for OPT&nbsp;<strong>before March 18, 2027<\/strong>, should check in with the DSO before traveling outside the U.S.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"1ba54879-a0c9-46db-8fae-f30f761e21a2\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">Can current F-1 students travel on or after September 15, 2026?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"1ba54879-a0c9-46db-8fae-f30f761e21a2\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, current international students can continue to travel. However, as of Sept. 15, 2026, upon returning to the United States, these students will be admitted with a new fixed period of admission, which is the program end date on their Form I-20, up to a maximum of four years (plus a 30-day grace period). Students who have plans to travel outside the U.S. and re-enter&nbsp;<strong>on or after September 15, 2026<\/strong>&nbsp;should contact the DSO at <a href=\"mailto:globaleducation@bates.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">globaleducation@bates.edu<\/a> before travel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">**Students who are eligible and plan to apply for OPT&nbsp;<strong>before March 18, 2027<\/strong>, should check in with the DSO before traveling outside the U.S.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"62205f35-eedb-4646-85c9-e6a7db45de09\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">What is an EOS?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"62205f35-eedb-4646-85c9-e6a7db45de09\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An Extension of Stay (EOS) is a request submitted online or by paper with Form I-539 to USCIS to extend your authorized period of admission without leaving the United&nbsp;States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">F-1 applicants can request an EOS by filing Form I-539, together with the required supporting documentation and filing&nbsp;fee (currently $420 for online filing; $470 for paper filing).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If approved, USCIS will issue a new Form I-94 (as part of the I-797 Notice of Action) with a new AUD, allowing you to remain in the U.S. for the approved period (including a 30-day grace&nbsp;period).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"52add0bc-cb67-485a-b05d-b3ac09bb5d65\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">What if the EOS is delayed or denied?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"52add0bc-cb67-485a-b05d-b3ac09bb5d65\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You may receive a Request for Evidence (RFE) for your EOS application while it is pending. If you receive a RFE from USCIS in response to your EOS application, please contact the DSO in the Center for Global Education <a href=\"mailto:globaleducation@bates.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">globaleducation@bates.edu<\/a> right away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your EOS application is denied, you must leave the U.S. immediately. You are not given a grace period and will begin accruing lawful presence right away. If your EOS application is denied, please contact the DSO right away.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"f1fed9ad-fdc7-4d9a-89eb-08fe1e0c2c1b\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">Is a program extension the same as an EOS?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"f1fed9ad-fdc7-4d9a-89eb-08fe1e0c2c1b\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">No. An EOS extends your authorized stay, not your underlying academic program. Before filing an EOS application, students must first obtain any necessary extension of their Form I-20 from&nbsp;the DSO.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"bd149b2b-32e7-4f61-bfa6-061b8d21b07d\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">Who will need an EOS?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"bd149b2b-32e7-4f61-bfa6-061b8d21b07d\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many students will complete their academic programs before their AUD&nbsp;expires.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, an EOS may become necessary&nbsp;when:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>you require additional time to complete degree&nbsp;requirements;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>your OPT, STEM OPT continues beyond your current authorized stay;&nbsp;or<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>another circumstance arises for which you would need additional time in F immigration status.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"cb1255fe-6b9a-42df-b4df-495694e66c4d\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">Can I travel instead of applying for an EOS?<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"cb1255fe-6b9a-42df-b4df-495694e66c4d\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you have plans to travel outside of the U.S. and have (or will apply for) a valid F visa, you may be eligible to request an extended period of stay from CBP. Students must travel with their updated I-20 , a recommendation from the DSO that they receive additional time, and proof that the additional time is required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This documentation makes an individual eligible to request entry to the U.S. <strong>It does not guarantee entry. The decision to allow entry to students is solely that of CBP.<\/strong> <strong>All current travel risks remain.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether travel or an EOS is preferable depends on the individual\u2019s circumstances.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"ee83e57c-96e8-48d1-8c22-5d99365ade51\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">What you should do after travel abroad and reenter the U.S.<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"ee83e57c-96e8-48d1-8c22-5d99365ade51\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After every international trip, students should promptly retrieve and review their new <a href=\"https:\/\/i94.cbp.dhs.gov\/home\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Form I-94 from the CBP website<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Always verify that:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>your immigration classification is correct (F-1);<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>your AUD is consistent with your expected period of admission + 30 day grace period;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>your name and passport information are correct; and<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>there are no obvious admission errors.<br>If you believe your Form I-94 contains an error, contact the DSO as soon as possible. Errors are often easier to correct immediately after entry than weeks or months later.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you will re-enter the U.S. on or after September 15, 2026, contact the DSO at <a href=\"mailto:globaleducation@bates.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">globaleducation@bates.edu<\/a> before your return.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-bates-shortcodes-btn btn-wrap\"><div class=\"btn-action\" role=\"button\" tabindex=\"0\" aria-controls=\"34b72197-2150-4b91-8a73-960eaca2be07\" aria-pressed=\"false\" aria-expanded=\"false\"><h3 class=\"btn-title\">Who to contact with questions<\/h3><div class=\"btn-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><div class=\"btn-content\" id=\"34b72197-2150-4b91-8a73-960eaca2be07\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you have questions or concerns, contact the Center for Global Education at <a href=\"mailto:globaleducation@bates.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">globaleducation@bates.edu<\/a>. We will continue to communicate updates as DHS and USCIS release further details.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Overview On Friday, July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security&hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":924,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_hide_ai_chatbot":false,"_ai_chatbot_style":"","associated_faculty":[],"_Page_Specific_Css":"","_bates_restrict_mod":false,"bates_author_byline_override":"","_hide_page_title":false,"_header_override":"","_template_width_override":"","_dimp_site_id":"","_dimp_override_contact":false,"_table_of_contents_display":false,"_table_of_contents_location":"","_table_of_contents_disableSticky":false,"_is_featured":false,"_sidebarChoice":"","footnotes":"","_bates_seo_meta_description":"","_bates_seo_block_robots":false,"_bates_seo_sharing_image_id":0,"_bates_seo_sharing_image_twitter_id":0,"_bates_seo_share_title":"","_bates_seo_canonical_overwrite":"","_bates_seo_twitter_template":""},"class_list":["post-12767","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/global-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/12767","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/global-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/global-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/global-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/924"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/global-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12767"}],"version-history":[{"count":32,"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/global-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/12767\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":12835,"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/global-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/12767\/revisions\/12835"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bates.edu\/global-education\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12767"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}