DHS Issues New Rules for F-1 Students and J-1 Exchange Visitors

Rule Goes Into Effect September 15

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued a final rule eliminating Duration of Status (D/S) for F-1 and J-1 students. This page is intended to explain our current understandings and recommendations regarding this change.

Read the Full Text of the Rule

FAQs

Available Resources

Immigration Resources Page

Our frequently-updated page regarding new federal regulations that affect students, faculty, and scholars.

Center for Immigrants' Rights Clinic

A nationally-recognized in-house clinic at Penn State, focused on immigrants' rights.

NAFSA's D/S Page

NAFSA, the premier international education association in the U.S., has an explainer page of their own.

Study in the States: Quick Facts

A quick fact explainer from the Department of Homeland Security about the new rule.

Study in the States: FAQ

An FAQ from the Department of Homeland Security about the new rule.

Federal Register Entry

Read the full entry of the rule in the Federal Register.

We Are Here For You

We genuinely care about your well-being. We encourage you to take care of yourself and make use of the many campus resources available to support your mental and personal health during this time. A list of resources is below:

International Student and Scholar Services

University Community Updates Regarding Executive Actions

Penn State Law Center for Immigrants’ Rights Clinic—2025 Resources

Student Care & Advocacy

Counseling & Psychological Services

Student Legal Services

Penn State Dickinson Law Explainer (pdf format)

Penn State continues to monitor the situation and work with stakeholders to get the most accurate and up-to-date information on the effects of any incoming policies on our students. Please check your emails and keep this page bookmarked for the latest information.