Published on Oct 1, 2020
Updated October 26, 2020 - On Monday, October 26, 2020, the University of Chicago submitted public comment to the Department of Homeland Security in response to the proposed rule titled ‘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.’ October 26, 2020, was also the end of the 30-day comment period regarding this proposed rule by DHS. We will continue to share with you updates regarding this important issue and encourage you to reach out to OIA Director, Nick Seamons, if you have questions or concern.
The University of Chicago's submitted comment is available here.
Updated October 5, 2020 - On Friday, September 25, 2020, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proposed a rule to eliminate duration of status (D/S) for F-1 students and their F-2 dependents, and J-1 exchange visitors (including students, researchers/professors, and short-term scholars) and their J-2 dependents. Instead of being admitted to the U.S. for “duration of status” (D/S) as has been the practice for many years, the proposed rule would eliminate D/S, and individuals entering the U.S. in F or J status would be admitted for a specified length of time with options and procedures for extensions. For more about duration of status.
Please note, this is a proposed rule, which means it will proceed through a period of public notice and comment procedures before a final rule is published with an effective date. The public comment period is open until October 26, 2020. Comments may be submitted here.
While the contents of this proposed rule are not immediately in effect, OIA is working with University leaders, peer institutions, professional associations, and others to analyze the proposed rule and will share updated information as it becomes available.
For more information:
- Federal Register (for the full length proposal)
-
NAFSA: Association of International Education - overview
- NAFSA's analysis of the proposal to replace duration of status is here
- Penn State Law's Center for Immigrants' Rights Clinic and the Presidents' Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration (analysis)
- National Foundation for American Policy - International Students and DHS Data (policy brief)
OIA will be hosting a zoom webinar for all international students on Thursday, October 8, 2020, from 8-9am. This webinar is meant to welcome you all to the new academic year, provide a few updates, and allow for ample time to ask questions. Click here to register!
The University and OIA recognize that this and previously issued federal guidance and regulatory changes are stress-inducing and disturbing. Please know we are available if you have questions or would like to discuss these issues. Please feel free to reach out to the OIA adviser based on your school or division, or reach out to OIA Director, Nick Seamons, if you have further questions.