Harvard University has advised international students and scholars to carefully consider their travel plans ahead of September 15, when major changes to the US immigration framework for F-1 and J-1 visa holders are scheduled to take effect. The new Department of Homeland Security rule will replace the long-standing “duration of status” system with fixed periods of admission. Harvard’s International Office has warned that students who are outside the US when the changes take effect could face different admission conditions when they return.

Under the new system, eligible students will generally receive an “Admit Until Date” on their Form I-94 instead of the existing “D/S” notation. The admission period will usually correspond to the expected end date of the academic programme, subject to a maximum period of four years. Students who are already in the US and maintaining their immigration status when the rule takes effect may benefit from transition provisions, while those who leave and return on or after September 15 could be admitted under the new framework.

The changes could particularly affect students whose programmes, OPT or STEM OPT extend beyond the initial admission period. Under the new rules, students who need additional time to complete their studies may generally have to apply to US Citizenship and Immigration Services for an extension of stay. The rules also introduce changes concerning academic programme changes, transfers and other adjustments to students’ educational plans, making it important for international students to understand their individual immigration status.

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Another significant change concerns the post-programme grace period. F-1 students covered by the new framework will generally receive a 30-day grace period after completing their programme or authorised practical training, compared with the current 60-day period. However, students who remain covered by applicable transition provisions may retain the longer grace period. The changes therefore make the timing of international travel particularly important for students approaching the September 15 implementation date.

The new rules are also facing legal opposition from higher education organisations and labour unions, which have challenged the Department of Homeland Security’s decision in court. The plaintiffs argue that the changes could make it more difficult for universities to attract and retain international students. A federal judge has been asked to temporarily block implementation while the legal challenge proceeds, although the outcome of that case could affect the scheduled rollout.

For Indian students currently studying in the US or planning international travel around the transition date, university officials recommend checking their I-20, visa and I-94 documents before making travel arrangements. Students should also consult their university’s international office, particularly if they expect to extend their studies or rely on OPT or STEM OPT. Harvard’s warning highlights the importance of understanding how travel after September 15 could affect an individual student’s immigration status under the new system.

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