If I don’t travel, does that mean the new D/S rule won’t apply to me?

FAQ.

Answered by Jennifer Glass, Immigration Coordinator of the International Student Resource Center

Last updated: August, 2026

If I don’t travel, does that mean the new D/S rule won’t apply to me?

No. While there is a transition provision that allows F-1 students who are in the U.S. when the D/S rule goes into effect to retain their 60-day grade period and for those students applying for OPT/STEM in the 6-month period immediately following to not have to file an EOS application with their OPT/STEM application, that’s it. You still - even if you don’t travel - will be subject to the new “fixed period of admission.”

Notes:

• Familiarize yourself with your new expected end date. This is the date by which you will need to take action (apply for an extension with USCIS or depart the U.S. and seek reentry through CBP with an extended I-20 or DS-2019) if more time is needed for you to continue your studies or program in the U.S.

• Need help determining your end date? Check out the ISRC’s I-94 End Date Guide. Additionally, make sure to consult with a DSO/ARO at your school to get the most accurate advice about your particular situation.

• If you are applying for OPT or the STEM OPT Extension on or before March 18, 2027 and you are covered by the transition rules, you will not have to file an extension (I-539) application along with your I-765

Related Resources

• ISRC’s I-94 End Date/AUD Guide

• ISRC’s Summary of D/S rule