On September 14, 2026, a federal court in Massachusetts issued a preliminary injunction blocking the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) from implementing a new rule that was scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026.
What this means for you:
- The rule would have replaced “Duration of Status” (D/S) — the current system that allows F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and I visa holders to remain in the U.S. for the length of their program — with fixed admission periods requiring formal extension applications.
- Because of the court’s order, this change is on hold. D/S remains in effect for now, and no action is required by students at this time.
- The lawsuit (Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration et al. v. DHS, District of Massachusetts) is still ongoing. DHS is expected to appeal the injunction, and the case could still change in the coming months.
What you should do:
- Continue maintaining your status as usual — attend classes full-time, keep your I-20 current, and report any changes to the International Student Office.
- No new extension-of-stay filings are required because of this rule at this time.
- Watch for further updates from the school as the litigation develops — the situation could change again.