On Monday September 14, 2026, the United States District Court in the District of Massachusetts issued a ruling on the enforceability of the Rule entitled “Establishing a Fixed Time Period of Admission and an Extension of Stay Procedure for Nonimmigrant Academic Students, Exchange Visitors, and Representatives of Foreign Information Media,” published in the Federal Register on July 17, 2026.
This preliminary ruling postpones the effective date of the Final Rule under Section 705 of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA), pending further action or resolution by the court. The court denied a motion to fully vacate the Final rule. This means the new regulation and restrictions will not go into effect as expected on September 15, 2026. In practical terms, the implementation of the Final Rule is officially paused
What does this mean for F-1 & J-1 Enrolled Students or Students on OPT/STEM OPT?
- As of September 15 there are no current impacts to the F/J student processes of program extension, OPT or STEM OPT.
- There are no new academic restrictions in place and students may continue to request transfer or make adjustments to their majors/educational levels.
- BIO will continue to process I-20/DS-2019 extensions, OPT/STEM OPT, transfer, major and level updates as normal, and there will be no changes until further notice.
- F/J students should consult BIO prior to any international travel, as re-entering the U.S. while court decisions are pending could create complications.
- Current D/S Rule related workshops are cancelled until further notice.
- BIO student webpages reflect processes and current, unchanged regulations.
What does this mean for J Scholars?
- BIO will continue to process J-1 extensions and transfers using our existing regulations and processes, and there will be no changes until further notice.
- J scholars should consult BIO prior to any international travel, as re-entering the U.S. while court decisions are pending could create complications.
It is important that students and scholars recognize that all current immigration regulations remain in place, and that you must continue taking all necessary steps to maintain your status during this period. Additionally, due to potential administrative confusion and uncertainty surrounding international travel, it is essential that you consult with a BIO advisor before traveling and check your I-94 Arrival Record carefully upon return. F/J status individuals should continue to be allowed entry under D/S or “Duration of Status” while the new rule is on hold, and this should be indicated on your I-94. Please notify BIO of any discrepancies or errors on your Form I-94.