A new rule limits how long international students can stay on F-1 visas, affecting degree programs longer than four years and complicating plans for graduate study.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has finalized a rule capping the duration of F-1 student visa status at four years, regardless of the length of the academic program. This means students pursuing graduate degrees, PhDs, or other programs longer than four years will face visa expiration before completing their studies.
The rule forces students to either leave the U.S. when their four-year limit expires or seek alternative visa status—a costly and uncertain process. Universities, particularly those with strong graduate and research programs, are reporting significant disruption to recruitment and enrollment, especially from international students in Asia and elsewhere.
International students now face a four-year visa cap, even if their degree takes longer.
If you're an international student planning to study in the U.S., understand that your visa duration is now capped at four years from the date of entry, not from program completion. Work with your university's international student office to explore options like Optional Practical Training (OPT) or other visa categories that might extend your stay. Start planning early with an immigration attorney if your program exceeds four years.
Source: original report ↗
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