Proposed Changes to F-1 Student Visas Under the Trump Administration: What International Students Need to Know

Proposed Changes to F-1 Student Visas Under the Trump Administration: What International Students Need to Know

By Luciane Tavares, Esq.
Updated September 12, 2025

International students in the United States face yet another potential policy shift. The Trump administration recently proposed ending “duration of status” (D/S) for F-1 students and replacing it with a fixed maximum stay.

If implemented, this would be one of the most significant changes to the student visa system in decades, affecting current and future students, schools, and employers.

What Is “Duration of Status” (D/S)?

Under the current rules, F-1 students are admitted for “duration of status,” which means they can remain in the U.S. as long as they:

  • Are enrolled full-time in their academic program,
  • Make normal progress toward completion, and
  • Follow all visa requirements.

There is no fixed expiration date tied to their I-94 other than the program end date, which gives students flexibility — especially those in long programs like PhDs.

Key Proposals on the Table

Here are the main elements of the proposed rule:

  • Fixed Maximum Stay: Students would be admitted for a set period — typically up to 4 years — regardless of how long their program is expected to last.
  • Extension Filings Required: If more time is needed (for example, for doctoral research or medical residency), students must file a USCIS extension request, with evidence of continued progress.
  • Limits on Program Changes: Changing majors or transferring schools could require additional approvals and could restart or limit the admission period.
  • Shorter Grace Period: The 60-day grace period after program completion could be reduced to 30 days, aligning with J-1 and M-1 visa holders.
  • More Frequent Vetting: USCIS and SEVIS would conduct periodic reviews to ensure compliance and progress toward degree completion.

Why the Change Is Being Proposed

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) argues that:

  • The open-ended D/S system creates enforcement challenges and allows “overstays.”
  • More frequent reviews will improve national security and ensure students are making “legitimate academic progress.”
  • It will help prevent so-called “forever student” scenarios where individuals remain in the U.S. for many years without graduating.

Impact on International Students

If finalized, this rule would have major practical consequences:

  • Less Flexibility: Students in programs lasting longer than four years (common for PhDs and medical fields) would face additional paperwork, costs, and risk of denial when seeking extensions.
  • Harder Transfers: Moving to a new school or changing academic focus may trigger a need for re-approval and could disrupt immigration status.
  • Planning Burden: Students would need to carefully plan course loads, research timelines, and travel to avoid falling out of status.
  • Uncertainty and Legal Costs: More USCIS filings mean more waiting, more fees, and potentially more reliance on legal representation.

What Students Can Do Now

  • Stay Informed: This proposal is currently in the public comment period — which means it is not law yet. Schools, advocacy groups, and students can submit feedback to DHS.
  • Plan for Possible Changes: Students in long programs should be aware of how a 4-year cap could affect them.
  • Keep Records Organized: Maintaining transcripts, enrollment verifications, and proof of academic progress will be critical for any future extension filings.
  • Work With Your School: International student offices can help you prepare for changes, update SEVIS records, and guide you on maintaining status.

Bottom Line

This proposal represents a major tightening of the F-1 visa system and could make it harder for students to finish programs, change schools, or stay in the U.S. after graduation.

If you are an F-1 student or planning to study in the U.S., now is the time to plan ahead, consult with your school’s Designated School Official (DSO), and consider legal advice to prepare for a possible fixed-term admission system.

Need help preparing for these changes?
Our team at  VisaLex helps students and schools stay compliant with F-1 regulations, file timely extensions, and respond to USCIS requests.

Contact us today to schedule a strategy session and make sure you’re ready for whatever comes next in U.S. immigration policy.