If you are an international student on an F-1 visa, one of the most important immigration changes in years is about to take effect. On September 15, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will replace the long-standing "duration of status" system with a new fixed period of admission. Because this affects how long you are allowed to stay in the United States, every F-1 student at AELS should understand what is changing and how to stay in status.
For years, F-1 students were admitted for "duration of status" (often written as "D/S") - meaning you could stay as long as you remained a full-time student in good standing, with no fixed end date on your entry record. Under the new DHS final rule, published on July 17, 2026, that changes. Starting September 15, 2026, F-1 students will instead be admitted for a specific, fixed period of time.
Your authorized stay will be based on the length of the program listed on your Form I-20 - up to a maximum of four years. On top of your program length, the rule adds a short window of up to 30 days before your program to arrive, and 30 days after your program ends to prepare to depart or take your next step. In simple terms: your I-20 program end date now matters more than ever, because your permission to stay is tied directly to it.
There is one detail every AELS student should know. F-1 students in English-language (ESL) training are subject to an aggregate limit of 24 months of language study, including breaks and annual vacations. If you are learning English to prepare for college, the TOEFL, or your career, plan your timeline carefully and talk with our team about how this limit applies to your goals - especially if you intend to continue into an academic program afterward.
Previously, program extensions were handled through your school's designated school official (DSO). Under the new rule, if you need more time to finish your program, begin a new program, or start OPT or STEM OPT, you must file an Extension of Stay application - Form I-539, or its successor form - directly with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), along with the required fee and biometrics. File before your admission period ends. Filing on time helps protect you from falling out of status while USCIS reviews your case. Alternatively, you may depart the United States and request a new period of admission when you return.
If you are already in the United States in valid F-1 status before September 15, 2026, you are not immediately affected. You may continue under duration of status until the program end date on your I-20 (or the end of your OPT or STEM OPT), as long as it is not beyond November 14, 2030. Keep in mind that if you travel abroad and re-enter after the rule takes effect, you will be admitted under the new fixed-date system.
The rule also adds new limits on changing your education level, changing your major, and transferring schools - especially during your first year - and students on academic probation or suspension may not be eligible to transfer or change programs. If any of these situations apply to you, speak with your DSO before making a change.
A few simple steps will help you stay on track:
At AELS, supporting our international students is one of our top priorities. Immigration rules can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to navigate them alone. Our team at all three AELS campuses - Los Angeles, Irvine, and Fullerton - is here to help you understand your I-20, plan your studies, and stay in good standing every step of the way.
This article is general information for AELS students and is not legal advice. Immigration rules and procedures may be updated, so please confirm the latest details with your AELS designated school official and official U.S. government resources (uscis.gov and studyinthestates.dhs.gov).
Learn more about our ESL programs at www.aels.edu or visit our AELS Los Angeles location on Google Maps to experience small-group English classes focused on conversation, confidence, and real-life communication.
Published on July 31, 2026
American English Language School (AELS) is a CEA-accredited and SEVP-approved English language school authorized to issue I-20 forms for international students. Located in Los Angeles, Orange County (Fullerton), and Irvine, California, AELS offers small classes, conversation-focused lessons, and proven results through individualized learning experiences. If you’re serious about improving your English, join AELS today!