U.S. immigration officials have proposed ending the long-standing “Duration of Status” (DOS) policy that allows F, J and I visa holders to remain in the United States for the length of their academic program rather than a fixed end date. Reports summarized by ICEF Monitor on May 11, 2026, say the change would require students’ SEVIS records and visa paperwork to include specific program end dates and could limit total allowable time in the U.S. for study and associated practical training.
If finalized, the shift from DOS to fixed end-dates would affect several practical areas: university enrollments, transfer windows, Optional Practical Training (OPT) timing for F-1 students, and J-1 program extensions. A requirement for concrete end dates raises the risk that students who need extra semesters — for research delays, failed courses, or medical leaves — would need formal SEVIS extensions or new petitions rather than relying on the previous DOS flexibility. Institutions will face heavier administrative tracking responsibilities and potential enrollment uncertainty.
For students in Jordan and the wider Middle East, implications are immediate. Applicants planning to start U.S. programs in fall 2026 or later should confirm that their admission letters include accurate program start and end dates and clarify institutional policies on extensions and leaves of absence. Current students should contact their campus international student offices (ISSO/ISO) to understand how a rule change may affect their SEVIS record, work authorization timing, and travel plans. Those planning OPT or J-1 academic training should ask advisors whether program end dates could affect eligibility windows.
Practical steps students should take now: 1) Verify program start/end dates on your I‑20 or DS‑2019 and on university offer letters; 2) Contact your university’s international office immediately to learn their extension and SEVIS reporting procedures; 3) If you expect research or course delays, document them now and ask your advisor about formal extension processes; 4) Accelerate applications for fall 2026 entry where possible — many U.S. deadlines (especially for graduate funding) close in December–March; 5) Prepare backup options (Canada, UK, EU, Australia or delayed enrollment) and check scholarship deadlines for those destinations.
Universities and governments will take months to finalize rulemaking if it proceeds; students should not assume an immediate cutoff but should act proactively. Admission cycles, visa appointments, and financial planning are all affected by increased uncertainty. Shatnawi for College Admissions and Academic Consultations can help Jordanian applicants review offer letters, communicate with U.S. international offices, and prepare alternative plans if timelines change. For direct guidance contact Shatnawi on WhatsApp at +962791888699 or visit shatnawiedu.com.