Starting September 15, 2026, the U.S. government is changing how long F-1 students can stay in the United States.

What Is Changing?

Fixed Expiration Date

  • Before September 15, 2026: F-1 students do not have a fixed date of how long you can stay in the U.S., called the "Duration of Status" (D/S).
  • After September 15, 2026: You will be admitted with a specific end date (up to a maximum of 2 years) based on your I-20.
Question Old (Duration of Status) New (Admit Until Date)
How long could you stay in the U.S.? As long as you were a full-time student in good standing, and your I-20 is active. Only until the exact expiration date printed on your I-94 (up to 2 years max).
What determines your end date? Your active school status I-20 (can be extended by the school). A fixed date set by U.S. border officials on your I-94 document and passport.
Who gives you extra time? International student advisor at LBCC. You must apply directly to the U.S. government (USCIS) and pay $420 fee.

 

Shorter Grace Period

  • After you finish your program, your grace period to leave the U.S. or transfer will be 30 days (instead of 60 days).

Extensions

  • If you need more time to finish your degree, you must apply for an extension directly with USCIS before your I-94 expires. International Office can no longer extend your status on its own.

Transfers

  • Under the new rule, once your complete your Associate's degree, you can only move upward in your studies (for example, transferring from an Associate degree to a Bachelor's degree).
  • You cannot transfer schools or change programs during your first academic year, start a second Associate degree, or move to a lower level in the U.S. If you plan to transfer to a university after your first year or need extra time to graduate, check your I-94 expiration date and talk to International Office early about filing an extension.

 

How Does This Affect You Right Now?

If you stay in the U.S.: This rule does not affect you immediately if you are already in the U.S. under D/S. Please contact your international student advisor by the end of August 2026, if you are eligible to extend your I-20.

If you travel abroad: If you leave the U.S. and return after September 15, 2026, you will be given a fixed end date on your I-94.

 

If you have any questions or would like to discuss your options, please contact international@linnbenton.edu to make an appointment.