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.
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 visit our ISSS Student Services page.
- International scholars visit our ISSS Faculty and Scholar Services page.
If you have any questions about the above announcement, please contact International Student and Scholar Services.
- WSU students across the System, contact by phone +1 509-335-4508 or email ip.intlservices@wsu.edu