Author: Alexander, Rae

Resources and Webinar Schedule for New DHS Rule

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Sent 7/28/2026

Dear International Community, 

Greetings from the ISSS!  Following up on our message from July 17, I’m writing to share some resources, including a schedule of upcoming webinars, on the Department of Homeland Security Final Rule to Eliminate Duration of Status.   The new rule is scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026.    

 

Some of the changes imposed by the new rule include: 

  • Replacing the use of “Duration of Status” (D/S) admission with a fixed period of time not to exceed four years plus 30 days.  The new fixed period of admission will be reflected in the “Admit Until Date” – AUD on the I-94 admission record.
  • Under the new rule, the AUD listed on the I-94 is based on the program end date listed on Form I-20 or DS-2019 or a maximum of 4 years, whichever is earlier, plus a grace period of 30 days.
  • The rule requires students and exchange visitors to extend their AUD by filing an extension request through USCIS using  Form I-539 (with fee, biometrics, and possible interview) or renewing their AUD by traveling outside of the U.S. and getting an updated form I-94 from Customs and Border Protection upon reentry.
  • The rule restricts students below the graduate level from changing majors or transferring schools or academic programs within the first academic year of study, unless an exception is authorized by the government.
  • The rule restricts graduate students from transferring schools during their program of study, unless an exception is authorized by the government.  It also restricts graduate students from changing their educational objectives (majors or educational levels) at any point during their degree program at UConn.
  • All students will be restricted from completing a second degree at the same or lower degree level as a first completed degree.
  • UCAELI students will be limited to studying English language for no longer than 24-months, plus a 30-day departure period.
  • The 60-day grace period after an F-1 program of study will be shortened to 30 days. The 30-day grace period for J-1 visa holders remains unchanged.
  • There will be special transition policies in place for students who are already in the U.S. with D/S admission when the rule becomes effective. Please see the FAQ for more information.

Resources for students, researchers and the university community: 

  • Visit the ISSS Immigration Updates webpage for FAQs answering many of the common questions regarding the new rule. This will continue to be updated as we confirm new information.
  • Attend an ISSS presentation to learn more. Over the coming weeks and months, ISSS will offer a series of presentations to university community members to help you understand and prepare for the new rule. We strongly encourage you to attend a session.  Presentation content will be offered for special populations:
  •  F-1 and J-1 Students
  • F-1 Alumni on OPT or STEM OPT Extension and J-1 Alumni on Academic Training
  • J-1 Research Scholars, Professors, Short-Term Scholars, and Specialists, including visiting research students.
  • Meetings for Academic Departments and Program/Advising Staff (Dept Chairs, Dept Admins, Faculty Supervisors, etc.)
  • Academic Administrators and Faculty Supporting International Students

Most presentations will be delivered online. The schedule of presentations is posted and will continue to be updated on the Immigration Updates page, and in the coming days you will be able to register to attend the webinars from the UConn Events Calendar.

While the information above may be overwhelming, please know that the ISSS and the University are working to understand all the implications so that we can best support and advise students and exchange visitors impacted by the changes.  UConn ISSS is engaged with national organizations that are helping to advocate for international students and to clarify parts of the rule.  Some government agencies have yet to release guidance to stakeholders, but we anticipate more information in the weeks before the rule goes into effect. Therefore, we will continue offering presentations so that we can share updates with the community as we learn about them.

Best wishes,

Arthur

Immigration Update: Final Duration of Status Rule Published

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Dear International Students and Scholars,

 

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released a Final Rule that would make significant changes to how F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and certain other nonimmigrant categories are admitted and maintain lawful status in the United States. This rule was officially published in the Federal Register on July 17, 2026 however is not yet in effect and no immediate action is required.

ISSS is reviewing the language of the final rule so we can best understand how it will impact the UConn community. In the coming days/weeks we will share important information with students, scholars and the university community. Please know we are also closely monitoring the government agencies enforcing the rule to identify any changes in policy or business practice as a result of the publication.

 

What You Need to Know

  • The rule is not currently in effect, but is expected to take effect on Sept 15, 2026.
  • There are no immediate changes to your immigration status or required actions needed.
  • Current F-1 and J-1 regulations remain in effect until the new rule’s effective date.

 

What is changing?

The Final Rule would replace Duration of Status (D/S) with a fixed period of admission for F-1 students, J-1 exchange visitors, and their F-2 or J-2 dependents.

If implemented as written, many individuals would receive an admission period with a specific expiration date, up to a maximum initial period of four years, rather than being admitted for the duration of their academic or exchange program. The rule also establishes procedures for requesting an Extension of Stay from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) when additional time is needed for a program.

These changes do not prohibit students and exchange visitors from remaining in the United States for their initial authorized period of stay, but do mean that students and exchange visitors would have to request an extension in order to remain beyond that period. Additional changes will include revised grace periods and new procedures that will affect maintenance of status.

 

What does this mean for current students and scholars?

At this time:

  • There is no action required.
  • Continue to maintain your immigration status as you normally would.
  • Continue to follow all current ISSS guidance regarding enrollment, employment authorization, travel, and reporting requirements.
  • Do not submit any new immigration applications based solely on this announcement.

ISSS will provide updated guidance if and when changes become effective.

 

What is ISSS doing?

ISSS is currently:

  • Conducting a detailed review of the Final Rule.
  • Working with University partners to evaluate operational and compliance impacts.
  • Monitoring implementation guidance from DHS, USCIS, and the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
  • Developing communications, advising materials, and implementation plans to support our international students and scholars as well as our university partners.

 

Common FAQs

Is my F-1 or J-1 status changing today?
No. Current regulations remain in effect. There are no immediate changes to your immigration status.

Should I apply for an Extension of Stay now?
No. The procedures described in the Final Rule are not currently in effect. ISSS will provide guidance if future action becomes necessary.

Will this affect my current I-20 or DS-2019?
No. Your current immigration documents remain valid under existing regulations.

Will this affect OPT, STEM OPT, or Academic Training?
Current rules governing employment authorization remain in effect at this time. ISSS is reviewing the Final Rule to determine whether future implementation will affect these processes and will communicate any changes as they become available.

Will this affect transferring to another university or changing degree levels?

Current rules remain in effect at this time. ISSS is reviewing the Final Rule to determine whether future implementation will affect these processes and will communicate any changes as they become available.

When will more information be available?
ISSS expects to provide additional guidance after full review of the final rule and DHS releases any implementation instructions.

 

Stay Informed

ISSS will continue to monitor this development closely and provide updates as additional information becomes available. Please continue to check the ISSS website and your email for official updates. If you have questions, please contact ISSS through the normal channels. Please bear in mind that this is a developing federal regulation, we may not yet have answers to every implementation question, but we will provide timely and accurate information as guidance becomes available.

 

Best Regards,

The Team at ISSS

ISSS has moved – New office location

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ISSS on the Storrs campus has moved to a new building.

Our new home is the Center for International Students and Scholars located at 2019 Hillside Rd. Storrs, CT 06269. Look for the Center for International Students and Scholars at maps.uconn.edu.

The office is open Monday-Friday from 9:00-5:00.  We look forward to seeing you soon.

Resources for students and scholars impacted by war in Ukraine

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Embassy Contact Information

Ukrainian Embassy in Washington, D.C.

Telephone: (+1) 202 349 2963

Email: ukrembus@gmail.com; consuluausa@gmail.com 

Russian Embassy in Washington, D.C.

Phone: (202) 939-8914/Emergency Line: 202-298-5700 

Email: russconswdc@gmail.com; rusembusa@mid.ru

Visas and Travel

Announcement of Processing Posts for U.S. Visa Applicants from Ukraine: U.S. visa services are not available in Ukraine, but follow these guidelines to identify appropriate consular posts to apply for the U.S. visas outside Ukraine. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/announcement-of-processing-posts-for-visa-applicants-from-Ukraine.html

U.S. F/M/J Visa Processing for applicants resident in Russia: Due to lack of consular services for nonimmigrant visa processing in Russia, the U.S. Department of State has designated specific posts for receiving applicants who are residents of Russia and need student or exchange visitors visas. Read full post: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news/announcement-of-F-M-J-processing-posts-for-applicants-resident-in-russia.html  

U.S. Visa and Humanitarian Information for Ukrainians in Poland: https://pl.usembassy.gov/humanitarian_assistance_ukraine_pl/ and https://pl.usembassy.gov/visas/humanitarian-assistance-and-visa-information-for-ukrainians/

Limited National Interest Exception of vaccine requirement for some travelers from Ukraine: Currently the U.S. requires that international travelers be fully vaccinated for COVID-19. This limited National Interest Exception provides flexibility to arrive without vaccination for certain nonimmigrant travelers who were in Ukraine as of February 10, 2022. Read the full National Interest Exception, here:  https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/2022-02/22_0215_S1_national-interest-exemption_0.pdf 

Executive Order Restricting Entry to U.S. of Certain Individuals who have been determined to engage in activities in support of Russia’s recognition of DNR and LNR regions of Ukraine. Read the Executive Order, here: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2022/02/23/2022-04020/blocking-property-of-certain-persons-and-prohibiting-certain-transactions-with-respect-to-continued   

AILA Practice Pointer: Nonimmigrant and Immigrant Visa Options for Ukrainian Nationals, including travel considerations for entering neighboring countries across land borders. (Source: American Immigration Lawyers Association)

U.S. Immigration Benefits

 Temporary Protected Status for Ukraine: 

On March 3, The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the designation of Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months. Read full announcement here: https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/news-releases/secretary-mayorkas-designates-ukraine-for-temporary-protected-status-for-18-months

Starting April 19, 2022 eligible Ukrainians may file for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). Find filing details here: https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/temporary-protected-status/temporary-protected-status-designated-country-ukraine

ISSS recommends you seek legal assistance when filing for TPS.

Special Student Relief for Ukrainian students on F-1 visas:

Ukrainian students on F-1 visas who are experiencing severe economic hardship as a direct result of the conflict in Ukraine may seek authorization to work more than 20 hours per week through on-campus employment authorization, or to work off-campus, part time or full time. Students working under SSR may also take a reduced course load and maintain F-1 status. Make an appointment with your ISSS advisor to discuss this option.

USCIS Immigration Help Available to those Affected by Special Situations

https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/immigration-help-available-to-those-affected-by-special-situations-including-the-invasion-of-ukraine

Updated April 19, 2022

Legal Resources

ISSS Legal Resources Handout- Includes immigration attorney listings close to UConn campuses.

Financial Resources

ISSS Financial Resources Handout - includes university and external financial recourses.

IIE Emergency Student Fund: ISSS can nominate a limited number of Ukrainian students on F or J visas for an IIE emergency student fund grant if, due to the crisis in Ukraine, you are unable to meet educational, living or health costs this current academic year. Contact Rae Alexander, rae.alexander@uconn.edu for more information. Nominations are due March 21.

Emotional Support

SHaW - Mental Health Services at Storrs campus provides support to students who may be struggling to cope with stressful situations and other mental health challenges. Please refer to their webpage for services currently offered and ways to access help.

At the Regional Campuses there are clinical case managers who can help you and connect you to local mental health resources: https://studenthealth.uconn.edu/regional-campuses/

If you are a staff member, or are on post-completion OPT, refer to your employer’s Human Resources department or health insurance provider for counseling/wellness program referrals. At UConn, the Employee Assistance Program for UConn staff and faculty offers counseling and mental health support: https://hr.uconn.edu/employee-assistance-program/

Psychology Today provides a listings of theapists worldwide: https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/counsellors?domain=www&cc=us&cl=en

American Psychological Association article: How to handle the trauma of war from afar.

Dean of Students Resources

Meet with a Dean: https://dos.uconn.edu/about-dean-of-students/

Final Exam Rescheduling: https://dos.uconn.edu/reschedule-finals/

Take a break/leave UConn: https://dos.uconn.edu/leaving-uconn/

Bias Incidents: https://dos.uconn.edu/bias-reporting-2/

 

The Graduate School Support

Guidance and Support Contacts: https://grad.uconn.edu/graduate-students/student-resources/guidance-support/

This post will continue to be updated with more resources as they become available. Last update: 3/4/22.

Message for returning international students

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We want to share with you important information related to the recent announcement about the spring 2022 semester starting online. This message is for students who are returning to UConn and have active I-20 or DS-2019 forms. Please read carefully, and send us your questions.

Arrival Date for students who live off-campus:

International students who are returning to UConn and live off campus have flexibility to arrive when you like, as long as you arrive by January 30 to begin classes in person on January 31.  Arriving after January 18 carries some risk; see more below.

Students who live on-campus

The University has delayed move-in for most on campus students until January 29-30.  We know that international students may have already purchased flight tickets to move in based on the original schedule, or may not have another place to stay in the U.S. 

  • January 15 or 16th, with approval from Res Life  
  • You may also delay your arrival to move in on January 29 or 30. Delaying your arrival also carries risk; see more below. If you do not submit the early arrival request form by January 6, UConn Residential Life will presume you are moving in January 29 or 30. 

What to know if you delay your arrival

  • You must be able to participate in your coursework online from your location. If time zone differences or internet restrictions prevent you from participating fully in your online coursework, you should consider traveling here before classes begin January 18. Please be advised that the UConn VPN may not be available to access courses in China. 
  • If you begin your in-person courses online from your home country, and then you cannot arrive in person to participate due to unexpected reasons (flight cancellations, illness, visa delays, travel lockdowns) you will still owe tuition, even if you cannot complete the course as planned. See the refund schedule for course tuition. 
  • Graduate students who will arrive after January 18 (or after January 5, if a Graduate Assistant) need approval from The Graduate School, and your Graduate Assistant supervisor, should you have a GA. The late arrival request form can be found under the “Account & Forms” area of your Application Status Portal for new students, and on this website for returning students. 
  • Due to federal laws, Iranian graduate students may only participate in courses online while outside the U.S. under limited circumstances. If you are an Iranian graduate student who cannot arrive before January 18th, your case must be reviewed by the appropriate offices at UConn. 

Returning from travel abroad

Returning students arriving from abroad need to carry their passport, unexpired F or J visa, and I-20 or DS-2019 with a recent travel signature from ISSS (signed within the last 12 months). You can find your I-20 or DS-2019 form in your ISSS Portal account by logging in to isssportal.uconn.edu and click on your Academic Objective record, listed under the term/year that you started your program. Find your scanned I-20 copies under "Attached Documents". Check the date of your last travel signature on page 2, and if you need a new one, submit a Travel Information Record . You must download, print and sign your I-20 or DS-2019 to have with you at immigration. 

Students who will delay their arrival until January 29/30 can carry a spring 2022 travel letter in your carry-on luggage, in case you are asked to document why you are arriving late.  

We know that you still may have many questions. If you need help please contact international@uconn.edu or make an appointment with your ISSS advisor. 

Message for new regional campus students

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We want to share with you important information related to the recent announcement about the spring 2022 semester starting online. This is for new international students who are at the regional campuses (Stamford, Hartford, Avery Point, Waterbury), the Graduate Business Learning Center and School of Law as well as returning students who are coming on a new, initial I-20 form.  Please read carefully and send us your questions.

Arrival date for students who live off campus

International students who live off campus have flexibility to arrive when you like, as long as you arrive by January 30 to begin classes in person on January 31. Submit the ISSS Arrival Confirmation form so that ISSS knows when you will arrive.

Arrival date for students who will live on campus

The University has delayed move-in for most on campus students until January 29-30.  We know that international students may have already purchased flight tickets to move in based on the original schedule. This means you may move in:

  • January 15 or 16th  
  • You may also delay your arrival to the move on the weekend of January 29 or 30. Delaying your arrival carries risk: read more details about that below. If you do not submit the early arrival request form by January 6, UConn Residential Life will presume you are moving in January 29 or 30.

    What to know if you delay your arrival

    • You must be able to participate in your coursework online from your location. If time zone differences or internet restrictions prevent you from participating fully in your online coursework, you should consider traveling here before classes begin January 18. Please be advised that the UConn VPN may not be available to access courses in China. 
    • If you begin your in-person courses online from your home country, and then you cannot arrive in person to participate due to unexpected reasons (flight cancellations, illness, visa delays, travel lockdowns) you will still owe tuition, even if you cannot complete the course as planned. See the refund schedule for course tuition. 
    • Graduate students who will arrive after January 18 (or after January 5, if a Graduate Assistant) need approval from The Graduate School, and your Graduate Assistant supervisor, should you have a GA. The late arrival request form can be found under the “Account & Forms” area of your Application Status Portal for new students, and on this website for returning students. 
    • Due to federal laws, Iranian graduate students may only participate in courses online while outside the U.S. under limited circumstances. If you are an Iranian graduate student who cannot arrive before January 18th, your case must be reviewed by the appropriate offices at UConn. 

      If I delay my arrival, will UConn update my I-20 or DS-2019 start date? 

      Students who already have their visa will not need an updated I-20 or DS-2019 form. You can carry a spring 2022 travel letter in your carry on luggage in case you are asked to document why you are arriving late. Students who will have their visa appointment after January 11th and will not arrive by January 18th may request an updated I-20 form or DS-2019. You will need to email international@uconn.edu and provide your date of visa appointment and planned travel date.

      We know that you still may have many questions. If you need help please contact international@uconn.edu or make an appointment with your ISSS advisor.  

      Message for new Storrs grad and undergrad int’l students

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      We want to share with you important information related to the recent announcement about the spring 2022 semester starting online. This is for new international undergraduate and graduate students to UConn, including students who started their UConn programs abroad and will arrive for the first time. Please read carefully and send us your questions.

       

      Arrival date for students who live off campus

      International students who live off campus have flexibility to arrive when you like, as long as you arrive by January 30 to begin classes in person on January 31. Submit the ISSS Arrival Confirmation form so that ISSS knows when you will arrive. Arriving after January 18 carries some risk; see below for more information.

      Arrival date for students who live on campus

      The University has delayed move-in for most on campus students until January 29-30.  We know that international students may have already purchased flight tickets to move in based on the original schedule. This means you may move in:

      • January 13, 2022 between 8:30 and 4:30 pm., with approval from Res Life
        • What to submit: 
          • Spring 2022 Return to Campus Prior to January 29 Request Form by January 6, 2022 at noon (UConn time). Although the form lists January 15 and 16 arrival dates, you are allowed to move in on January 13 because ISSS provided your name to UConn ResLife as eligible for early arrival.
          • The ISSS Arrival Confirmation form, so that ISSS knows when you will arrive. If you are interested in joining an ISSS shopping trip in the evening of January 13, sign up here. 
      • You may also move in January 15 or 16th, with approval from Res Life  
        • What to submit: 
          • Spring 2022 Return to Campus Prior to January 29 Request Form by January 6, 2022 at noon (UConn time).  
          • The ISSS Arrival Confirmation form, so that ISSS knows when you will arrive. 
      • Graduate students living in on-campus housing may have arranged different move-in dates individually with Res Life.  Follow the instructions provided to you by Res Life, and submit your ISSS Arrival Confirmation form, so that ISSS knows when you will arrive. 
      • You may also delay your arrival to the move on the weekend of January 29 or 30. Please see more details about that below. If you do not submit the early arrival request form by January 6, UConn Residential Life will presume you are moving in January 29 or 30. 

      What to know if you delay your arrival

      • You must be able to participate in your coursework online from your location. If time zone differences or internet restrictions prevent you from participating fully in your online coursework, you should consider traveling here before classes begin January 18. Please be advised that the UConn VPN may not be available to access courses in China. 
      • If you begin your in-person courses online from your home country, and then you cannot arrive in person to participate due to unexpected reasons (flight cancellations, illness, visa delays, travel lockdowns) you will still owe tuition, even if you cannot complete the course as planned.
      • Graduate students who will arrive after January 18 (or after January 5, if a Graduate Assistant) need approval from The Graduate School, and your Graduate Assistant supervisor, should you have a GA. The late arrival request form can be found under the “Account & Forms” area of your Application Status Portal for new students, and on this website for returning students. Undergraduates do not need to seek special approval to arrive after January 18, as long as you are here by January 30.
      • Due to federal laws, Iranian graduate students may only participate in courses online while outside the U.S. under limited circumstances. If you are an Iranian graduate student who cannot arrive before January 18th, your case must be reviewed by the appropriate offices at UConn. 

      If I delay arrival, will ISSS update my I-20 or DS-2019 form?

      Students who already have their visa will not need an updated I-20 or DS-2019 form. You can carry a spring 2022 travel letter in your carry on luggage in case you are asked to document why you are arriving late. Students who will have their visa appointment after January 11th and will not arrive by January 18th may request an updated I-20 form or DS-2019. You will need to email international@uconn.edu and provide your date of visa appointment and planned travel date.

      ISSS In Person Orientation

      The required in-person ISSS orientation and welcome activities January 14-17 will be postponed to a later date after in-person classes begin. Instead, we will offer a synchronous online orientation program on January 14 and 17 to help you adjust to your first few weeks of remote learning. We will send you more details soon.

      We know that you still may have many questions. If you need help please contact international@uconn.edu or make an appointment with your ISSS advisor.  

      New Travel Restrictions to U.S. Effective Today

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      The U.S. has announced new restrictions on travel to the U.S., effective today (November 29, 2021), in light of the new COVID-19 variant of concern. The new travel restrictions apply to noncitizens who were present in the following countries within 14 days of planned entry to the U.S.: Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. You can read the full Presidential proclamation here.  While there are some exceptions to the policy, currently there is no national interest exception for international student or exchange visitor travelers. ISSS will contact students and exchange visitors individually who we believe could be affected by this policy.   

      These newest restrictions are a stark reminder that travel policies may change at any time due to the COVID-19 pandemic, here in the U.S. and worldwide. We continue to urge caution to international students and exchange visitors who are here and considering taking a temporary trip abroad, due to the risk of travel policy changes that may prevent you from returning in time for spring semester commitments.

      Travel Signature Week at ISSS Storrs

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      November 29-December 3 is Travel Signature Week at ISSS in Storrs

      While we urge that students and exchange visitors consider any international travel with great caution due to the ongoing pandemic, if you will travel abroad during winter break you can apply for your travel signature during Travel Signature Week. If you do not attend Storrs campus, check with your ISSS Advisor at your campus about a deadline for submitting your travel signature request for winter break travel.

      How to report your international travel and get a travel signature:

      1. Submit your online Travel Information Record.  Enrolled students: Submit your record here.  Visiting scholars: Login to the ISSS Scholar Portal with your email and password (do not use Net ID), click on requests, and click on Travel Signature.
      2. Between November 29 and December 3, drop off your most recent I-20 or DS-2019 document to the ISSS front desk between 8 am and 5 pm. Enrolled students should also drop off a full time enrollment verification document from the UConn Registrar. Pick up your full time enrollment verification at the Registrar office in Wilbur Cross building, or email registrar@uconn.edu and request the document be sent to you as a pdf.
      3. Your I-20 or DS-2019 with travel signature will be ready for you to pick up no later than December 10. The ISSS front desk will email you if your document is ready earlier than December 10.  We will also return your enrollment verification to you, so that you have it with you for travel.

      Questions? Email international@uconn.edu.