US Imposes Four-Year Cap on International Student Stay, Sparking Debate

The Department of Homeland Security finalized a rule ending the longstanding duration-of-status policy for F-1 international students, limiting stays to four years unless an extension is approved and tightening rules on changing majors or institutions; proponents say it improves screening and reduces visa abuse, but critics warn it will deter international students and disrupt degree timelines, especially for Ph.D. students, amid USCIS processing backlogs. The rule takes effect September 15.