On September 15, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will overhaul the F-1 international student visa process. The current Duration of Status system, which allows students flexibility in completing their studies, will be replaced by a fixed admission period.

The change introduces several new requirements for F-1 students, including:

• A maximum of four years to complete a degree.
• A 30-day window after graduation or transfer.
• Restrictions on transferring schools or changing majors during the first year of study.
• Limitations on beginning a program at the same or lower degree level than one already earned.

Helping Students Navigate the Changes

For many international students, earning a degree in the United States already requires careful planning. With new federal regulations approaching, planning has become even more important.

At Saint Paul College, students can attend group information sessions to learn how the new regulations may affect their academic plans and immigration timelines. One-on-one advising appointments provide opportunities to review degree requirements, discuss transfer goals, and understand important deadlines before they become barriers.

The College has also moved academic planning conversations earlier in the enrollment process. Prospective students are connected with academic programs as they research and apply to Saint Paul College, helping them make informed decisions before classes begin.

*Saint Paul College cannot provide legal advice to students, but we have resources available to help students find a lawyer.

A Familiar Face for Guidance

When questions arise about deadlines, degree planning, or immigration requirements, many students turn to Katie Sivanich, Saint Paul College’s International Student Coordinator.

Students regularly meet with Katie to review timelines, understand new requirements, and connect with campus support services. As federal agencies continue to clarify aspects of the new regulations, she has become an important resource for students navigating uncertainty.

Kiara, the College Partnership Advisor at Saint Paul College, describes Katie’s support this way:

She is so intentional about helping folks understand what these changes will mean, making connections between students and other support folks/resources on campus, and being a person that students can go to for clarity and trust.

As students and staff prepare for the changes, many have described the process as navigating a minefield. Federal agencies continue to provide clarification on some aspects of the regulations, leaving unanswered questions about how certain policies may be implemented in practice. Students are worried that a small mistake could result in the loss of their visa status. Two particular barriers students should keep in mind are the application and biometric fees for the new extension-of-stay application, and keeping a watchful eye on their I-94 end date.

International Students Continue to Adapt

As the new regulations approach, Saint Paul College has already seen students adjusting their plans. Some have chosen to transfer sooner than originally intended so they can maximize the time available to complete their degrees under the new rules.

For the 2026-2027 academic year, Saint Paul College has seen:

The impact of Saint Paul College’s support can be seen in student feedback. In a recent survey, 90-92% of international students reported that the College has helped support them in maintaining their F-1 status. Many also said they feel connected to a community on campus.

Throughout recent information sessions, students have filled rooms with questions about degree planning, transfer timelines, and future career opportunities. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the new regulations, they continue to focus on completing their education and pursuing their long-term goals.

Questions? Contact Katie Sivanich
katherine.sivanich@saintpaul.edu
651.403.4470