As of September 15, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security's Final Rule eliminating “Duration of Status” and creating “fixed time periods of admission” is in effect.

The final rule contains important provisions affecting the ability of students to start new degree programs. If you are currently in F-1 student status, and are completing a U.S. degree on or after September 15, 2026, you may no longer maintain F-1 status based on admission to a new program at a lower or the same educational level.

• For example, an F-1 student who completes a master's degree on May 15, 2027 would not be eligible to pursue a second master's degree while maintaining F-1 student status.