D/S Final Rule: Penn Administrators
Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officially published a Final Rule in the Federal Register that will change how F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and their dependents are admitted to and maintain lawful status in the United States. Under the new rule, individuals will no longer be admitted for “duration of status” (D/S). Instead, their authorized period of admission will generally be limited to the length of their academic or exchange program, up to a maximum of four years at a time. Although the Final Rule has now been published, it will not take effect until September 15, 2026, following a 60-day implementation period. During this period, current immigration regulations, procedures, and advising practices will remain in effect.
The International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) leadership team is conducting a comprehensive review of the Final Rule in collaboration with University leadership and campus partners to assess its operational, compliance, and strategic implications for Penn.
What Schools and Departments Should Know
At this time:
- Do not make changes to hiring, appointments, funding, academic planning, travel recommendations, or other administrative decisions based solely on news reports or unofficial interpretations of the new rule.
- Please refer immigration-related questions from students, scholars, faculty, staff, and other Penn community members directly to ISSS for guidance.
- ISSS will communicate any required changes to University procedures as necessary.
- Be aware that under the new rule, F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and their dependents will generally be admitted for the length of their academic or exchange program, up to a maximum of four years. Those who need additional time may either apply directly to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for an extension of stay or depart the United States and seek readmission for a new authorized period.
What ISSS Is Doing
Our team is actively:
- Hosting a University-wide informational webinar on Thursday, July 23, from 2:00–3:00 p.m.ET to explain the Final Rule, discuss its potential implications, answer questions, and provide updates on implementation. A direct event invitation will be sent separately next week.
- Conducting a detailed review of the Final Rule and its implications for Penn and monitoring implementation guidance from DHS, USCIS, and the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
- Developing Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), guidance documents, and other resources to help our international community understand the new requirements.
Our Commitment
Penn’s international students and scholars are essential members of our academic and research community. ISSS is committed to providing timely, accurate, and coordinated guidance to help ensure continued compliance while minimizing disruption to our students, scholars, faculty, and administrative partners.
As additional federal guidance becomes available, we will continue to update the News & Announcements and Immigration sections of the ISSS website and communicate directly with schools and departments regarding implementation timelines, operational considerations, and any actions that may be required.
Thank you for your continued partnership and your support of Penn’s international community.