Return Before Sept 15: US Universities Warn International Students as DHS Rules Change

— Surya Prakash Josyula

Several leading US universities have issued an important advisory for international students. Students who are currently in India for their summer vacation have been asked to return to the United States before September 15. The advisory comes as the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) prepares to implement new immigration rules.

From September 15, the existing “Duration of Status (D/S)” system for students entering the US on F-1 and J-1 visas will be replaced by a “Fixed Time Period of Admission” system.

What is changing?

Until now, international students were generally allowed to stay in the US until they completed their academic programme. Under the new rule, students will instead be given a fixed period of stay. They will receive an “Authorised Admission Until Date (AUD)”, which will show the last date they are allowed to remain in the country.

The authorised period will usually match the length of the academic programme, but it will not exceed four years. If a student needs more time to complete the course, they must apply for a stay extension before the authorised period expires.

Why are universities issuing this advisory?

Many universities believe it is better for students to return to the US before the new rule takes effect. Columbia University has asked students to reach New York before September 8, when classes begin. The university said this could help students avoid possible issues during the initial implementation of the new immigration system.

Along with Columbia, the University of Pennsylvania, Cornell University, the University of Washington, and Carnegie Mellon University have also issued official advisories for their international students. They have asked students to regularly check official updates about the new immigration rules.

What should students do?

As the September 15 deadline approaches, universities have advised students who are currently in India not to delay their travel plans. They have also asked students to regularly check their university emails and official updates for the latest information.