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.
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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.
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