Major US Universities Issue Important Warning to International Students

Several prestigious US universities have alerted international students to return to their home countries before September 15, when new federal immigration rules are set to commence. The new rules will replace the longstanding "duration of status" system with fixed periods of admission for F, J, and I category visa holders, covering academic students, exchange visitors, and foreign media personnel.

Notable universities like Harvard, Columbia, Ohio State University, Georgetown, George Washington University, and the University of Chicago have warned of how the change may affect the length of stay for international students. Harvard's International Office recommended F-1 and J-1 students and scholars to be physically present in the US by September 15, while Columbia University suggested a return date of September 8.

Georgetown's Office of Global Services sent targeted warnings, and George Washington University urged students to check their immigration records after September 15. The University of Chicago held informational webinars explaining the changes, which may impact academic mobility and grant a shorter grace period after completing programs.

Current rules allow F-1 students to stay as long as their academic program is completed, but the new system will issue an "Admit Until Date" based on the program length, with a maximum initial admission period of four years. Students who need more time may have to apply for an extension through US Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Students already in the US on September 15 with valid F-1 or J-1 status will generally be covered by transition provisions, but leaving and returning after September 15 could subject them to the new fixed-period system. The grace period for F-1 students after completing their studies is also reduced from 60 to 30 days. The new rule is currently under federal court challenge, but universities are advising students to plan for the September 15 implementation date.