Please read this information as a guide to help you with your studies and maintain a valid immigration status. The information below may not apply to international students at all campuses.
Contents
- Update on DHS Final Rule Affecting F-1 and J-1 Nonimmigrants
- Increase in I-20 Extensions requests
- Welcome back to Washington State University!
- Full-time enrollment requirements
- Important: New CPT Policy
Update on DHS Final Rule Affecting F-1 and J-1 Nonimmigrants
On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a final rule that changes how authorized periods of stay are determined for individuals in F-1 and J-1 status, including the elimination of the current Duration of Status (D/S) framework. The rule is scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026.
WSU International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) is carefully reviewing the regulation and assessing its potential impact on our international student and scholar community. Because this is a significant policy change, we want to ensure that any guidance we provide is accurate, thorough, and based on a complete understanding of the new requirements.
As additional information becomes available, ISSS will share updates, resources, information sessions, and other campus communications. We encourage community members to monitor ISSS communications and website updates for the latest information.
The full text of the regulation is available through the Federal Register website.
We recognize that changes to immigration regulations can create uncertainty and concern. Our team is committed to supporting our international community throughout this transition. While we welcome your questions, our ability to provide specific guidance may be limited until our review of the final rule is complete and additional implementation details become available.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to provide timely and reliable information.
- International students find related information on our International Student Services webpage.
- International scholars ind related information on our Faculty and Scholar Services webpage.
Increase in I-20 Extensions requests
We have noticed an increase in student requests to extend their form I-20 considering this new rule, and before it becomes effective. An extension of the Form I-20 program end date is not granted solely because a student would prefer additional time or wish to avoid a future USCIS extension-of-stay process. Federal regulations require the student to have maintained F-1 status and to be unable to complete their academic program by the current end date because of a qualifying academic or medical reason. A documented change in academic objectives may potentially support an extension, but it must be reviewed based on the student’s academic record, remaining degree requirements, anticipated completion date, and documentation from the academic department.
Our office’s policy is not to extend a form I-20 that has an expiration date beyond 12 months from the day the request is received, unless there are extenuating academic circumstances which will be reviewed thoroughly by our office before a decision is granted.
Welcome back to Washington State University!
As you prepare to return to campus, make sure your documents are perfectly organized. Always carry your valid, hand-signed I-20 with a recent travel signature from a DSO from our office, a current F-1/J-1 visa stamp, proof of funding for the academic year, and your U.S. address and academic details.
Review this essential checklist before your travel to ensure a smooth reentry into the United States:
- Updated Travel Signature: Your Form I-20 or DS-2019 must be hand-signed on page 2 by a Designated School Official (DSO) or Alternate Responsible Officer (ARO) from our office. Ensure this signature is less than 12 months old. If you need a new signature, submit the Travel Signature Request via the MyPassport Portal.
- Valid Visa & Passport: Confirm that your F-1 or J-1 visa stamp is still current for entry, and that your passport will remain valid for at least six months beyond your date of reentry.
- Social Media Vetting: Be prepared to show information regarding your social media channels if you have them.
- Prepare for CBP Questions: Memorize your exact U.S. residential address and be ready to confidently converse in English about your degree and academic plans at WSU.
Do you have questions? Get in touch with us by phone or via email or schedule an appointment for in-person or virtual advising on our website. We can’t wait to see you back on campus! Go Cougs!
Full-time enrollment requirements
As part of your F-1 or J-1 status, you are required to be enrolled full time unless you have authorization from ISSS to drop below full-time enrollment.
You must be enrolled in the following by the start of the semester. Actions on F-1 SEVIS record will be taken by the end of the second week of class (September 4th).
- Undergraduate students: 12 credits
- Graduate students: 10 credits
Please ensure to resolve any holds that prevent enrollment, as well sign up for your classes as soon as possible.
Also note that if you are a current student, your F-1 or J-1 status is tied to your full-time enrollment or having an approved reduced course load by our office. Holding on-campus employment, such as an assistantship, does not constitute maintenance of status. You can remain legally in status without employment, as long as you are full-time enrolled.
If you need to drop below full-time enrollment, please book an appointment with an ISSS advisor or contact us (via email or by phone) to learn more.
Important: New CPT Policy
To help ensure that students remain focused on their academic programs, the ISSS Office will no longer approve full-time Curricular Practical Training (CPT) during the academic year effective Spring 2027. The only exception applies to students enrolled in academic programs with a required internship component that is explicitly part of the curriculum (e.g., Hospitality Business Management, Clinical Psychology, and similar programs with mandatory internship requirements).
This policy aligns with practices adopted by a number of other institutions and is intended to support student academic success while maintaining the educational purpose of CPT.
If you have any questions, please book an appointment with an ISSS advisor or contact us (via email or by phone).