New F/J Visa Rules Take Effect Sept. 15; Last Chance for Graduate Students to Transfer Schools or Majors

New F/J Visa Regulations Effective Next Week

The new student visa regulation that previously sparked widespread discussion among international students will officially take effect next Tuesday, September 15. The most significant change is the elimination of the "Duration of Status" (D/S) policy for F, J, and certain I-class visa holders, replacing it with a fixed duration of stay. Once the rules are in effect, newly arriving students will receive an I-94 record with a specific expiration date ("Admit Until Date"). Students must carefully verify their passports, F-1 visas, I-20 forms, and I-94 records, and double-check their status expiration dates before every entry into or departure from the U.S.

Additionally, the new regulations impose strict limits on transferring schools or changing fields of study/majors. This is particularly relevant for graduate students; once the rules are implemented, students generally cannot alter their initially declared educational objectives or arbitrarily switch majors or schools during their course of study. Furthermore, as a general rule, international students are restricted to pursuing degrees at a higher educational level; they may not "step down" to repeat a degree level or pursue a second master's degree after completing one.

Although the implementation date is only a week away, international students intending to pursue further studies in the U.S. or adjust their academic plans should seize this final window of opportunity. If you are currently planning to enroll, transfer schools, change majors, or apply for a second master's degree, you must take immediate action. Maintain close contact with your school's International Student Office (DSO) and make every effort to complete the necessary procedures before the new regulations officially take effect on September 15.