09/01/2026
Major changes are coming for F-1 students. 🇺🇸🎓
Beginning September 15, 2026, the long-standing “Duration of Status” (D/S) framework is changing, making it more important than ever for F-1 students to understand their I-94 admission period, OPT/STEM OPT timelines, travel plans, and H-1B cap-gap eligibility.
For students already in the U.S., transition rules may apply. For those pursuing H-1B status, the cap-gap bridge remains available for qualifying cases. Because individual circumstances and deadlines can differ, careful planning is essential.
📌 Know your dates.
📌 Monitor your I-94 and immigration documents.
📌 Plan OPT/STEM OPT and H-1B filings carefully.
📌 Consider the immigration consequences before international travel.
Have questions about how these changes may affect your status or immigration plans?
📞 (917) 803-1117
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Attorney Advertising. This post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.