Students Studying in The United States New Proposed DHS Rule to Replace Duration of Status (D/S)

On September 25, 2020, the Department of Homeland Security proposed a rule eliminating “Duration of Status.”  This is currently a proposed rule open for a 30-day comment period. The Department of Homeland Security will receive and review these comments prior to finalizing the proposal.

What is Duration of Status?

An F/J student is admitted to the U.S. for a period known as “Duration of Status” which is recorded upon entry on the I-94 with the notation “D/S”. Duration of Status refers to the period a student is pursuing a full course of study, plus any authorized practical/academic training following program/degree completion.

When will this change become effective?

DHS is accepting written comments through October 26, 2020. It will proceed through the rulemaking process under the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). There is no set timeframe for publication of a final rule, though the process typically takes several months.

What action is Northeastern taking?

As President Aoun stated in his July 8^th message to international students, “We remain steadfast in our commitment to being a diverse, inclusive, and truly global community. We will continue to advocate for you, and to welcome you.”  Northeastern plans to submit an official statement on behalf of the university community during this comment period. We will also be working with our congressional delegations and other higher education associations to prevent the proposed rule from taking effect and to highlight the importance of continuing the D/S policy for F and J international students and scholars.

Updates on Northeastern’s advocacy efforts will be posted at: http://www.northeastern.edu/executive-orders/