Some American universities have directed international students to return to the United States before the latest immigration rules on fixed-term visas
take effect. To apprise students of the provisions applying differently to those present in the US and those arriving post-deadline, the universities have issued advisories, conducted webinars and interactive sessions on the new immigration rules. "Harvard International Office is now recommending that J-1 scholars and F-1 and J-1 international students enrolled in on-campus programmes this fall try to be in the US when a new Department of Homeland Security rule imposing four-year limits and other restrictions on student visa status takes effect on Sept 15," The Harvard Crimson said, according to the news agency, PTI. "If you enter the US prior to September 15, 2026, or if you are currently in the US on or after September 15th, 2026, your I-94 record will still have D/S (Duration of Status). However, if you enter the US on or after September 15, 2026, you will be readmitted with a fixed AUD (Admit Until Date)," read one of the advisories on a university website. The suggestions arrive as the latest provisions will apply differently to students and scholars already in the country when they come into effect. Students present in the country on the day the rule becomes operative will be permitted to remain without applying for an extension until the later of their programme end date or the expiration of their post-completion work authorisation, up to a maximum of four years.
Current Students, Scholars Returning After Sept 15 Will Be Subject to New Rules
However, current students and scholars who remain outside the US and return after September 15 will be dealt with under the new rule upon re-entry.
Those within the country when the rule takes effect will retain the 60-day grace period for F-1 visa holders and the 30-day grace period for J-1 visa holders.
Under the new regulations, the grace period for F-1 visa holders will be reduced to 30 days.
Moreover, students and scholars returning to the country after September 15 may also see an "Admit Until Date" on their I-94 form changed to match their programme end date, according to the HIO - which could influence how future extensions of status are granted.
Universities including Chicago, Georgetown, Ohio State, and others have intimated to students, PhD scholars and alumni who are on Optional Practical Training (OPT) via email.
"Because the Final Rule includes a 60-day implementation period, we recommend that all students return to NYC (New York City) before the start of classes on September 8, 2026," Columbia University said.
Contending that the Department of Homeland Security did not consider the effects of the rule, as many as eight organisations have approached the court to halt its rollout.
