Thousands of Indian students planning higher education in the United States could soon face stricter immigration requirements after the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proposed replacing the long-standing “Duration of Status” (D/S) system with a fixed period of authorised stay.

If implemented, the proposal would require many international students to apply for formal extensions if their academic programmes continue beyond the initially approved period, adding another layer of compliance to studying in the US.

The proposed change is part of the US administration’s broader effort to tighten immigration oversight and strengthen visa monitoring.

What Is Changing Under the New Proposal?

Currently, international students holding F, J and I visas are allowed to remain in the United States for the duration of their academic programme, provided they continue to meet visa conditions.

Under the proposed rule:

• Students will receive a fixed authorised stay period instead of an open-ended duration.
• Those needing additional time to complete their studies must apply for an Extension of Stay through the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
• The change would shift oversight from educational institutions to federal immigration authorities.

The DHS said the proposal is intended to strengthen immigration enforcement, improve compliance and prevent misuse of student visas.

Why Is the US Introducing the New Rule?

According to the Department of Homeland Security, the current system has remained in place since 1978 and allows students to stay in the country for the duration of their academic programme.

The department argues that some individuals have taken advantage of the policy by repeatedly enrolling in courses to extend their stay indefinitely.

DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin said the new approach would establish clear time limits while improving monitoring and immigration oversight.

Which Students Could Be Most Affected?

The proposal is expected to have the biggest impact on students enrolled in long-duration academic programmes.

These include:

• Doctoral (PhD) programmes
• Research-based degrees
• Laboratory-intensive courses
• Programmes involving extended assistantships

While most bachelor’s degrees are completed within four years and master’s programmes usually take one or two years, many PhD programmes continue for five to seven years or longer, making visa extensions more likely.

Students pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) programmes could be among those most affected because of the longer duration of research and practical work.

Indian Students Could Feel the Biggest Impact

India continues to be the largest source of international students in the United States.

According to the Open Doors 2024–25 report:

• More than 3.63 lakh Indian students are currently studying in the US.
• Around 64% are enrolled in graduate programmes.
• About 27% are pursuing undergraduate degrees.

Education experts estimate that over one lakh Indian students enrolled in longer-duration courses could eventually require visa extensions if the proposal becomes law.

Experts Warn of Greater Uncertainty

Higher education experts say the proposal introduces additional uncertainty for students already navigating changing immigration policies.

They note that students may now have to plan visa renewals well in advance while considering research timelines, programme extensions and administrative processing periods.

Experts also believe that visa predictability is becoming an increasingly important factor for students choosing where to study abroad.

Could Other Study Destinations Benefit?

Industry observers suggest that continued policy changes in the United States may encourage more Indian students to explore alternative destinations.

Countries such as Germany, which offer growing international education opportunities and comparatively stable visa pathways, are already witnessing increased interest from Indian applicants.

Students and families are increasingly evaluating destinations based not only on university rankings but also on:

• Visa stability
• Post-study work opportunities
• Immigration policies
• Long-term career prospects

US Remains a Top Choice Despite Policy Changes

Despite the proposed changes, education experts say the United States continues to remain one of the world’s most preferred higher education destinations.

American universities continue attracting international students through globally recognised academic programmes, research opportunities and industry collaborations.

However, students pursuing longer academic programmes may now need to factor visa compliance into their study plans much earlier than before.

What Students Should Keep in Mind

The proposed DHS rule does not change university admissions or academic eligibility.

Instead, it introduces additional immigration requirements for students whose studies extend beyond their approved stay.

Students planning to study in the US should:

• Monitor updates on the proposed rule.
• Understand Extension of Stay requirements.
• Plan academic timelines carefully.
• Consult universities and immigration advisers before applying.

While opportunities to study in the United States remain strong, experts say policy certainty is becoming an increasingly important consideration for international students.

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FAQs

What is the new US student visa proposal?

The proposal would replace the current “Duration of Status” system with a fixed authorised stay period for international students.

Which visas are affected?

The proposed rule applies to F, J and I non-immigrant visas.

Who will be most affected by the change?

Students enrolled in long-duration programmes such as PhD, research and STEM courses are expected to be most affected.

Will Indian students be impacted?

Yes. With more than 3.63 lakh Indian students studying in the US, many pursuing graduate programmes could face additional visa compliance requirements.

Will students need visa extensions?

Students whose academic programmes continue beyond their approved stay would need to apply for an Extension of Stay through USCIS.

Does the proposal affect university admissions?

No. The proposal changes immigration rules but does not alter university admission policies.

Why is the DHS introducing this rule?

The department says the change aims to strengthen immigration oversight, prevent visa misuse and improve national security.

Could students choose other countries instead?

Education experts believe some students may increasingly consider destinations such as Germany and other countries offering more predictable visa policies.

Will the US remain a popular study destination?

Yes. Experts say the US continues to attract international students because of its universities, research opportunities and global reputation.

What should students do now?

Students should stay updated on the proposed rule, understand extension procedures and plan their academic and visa timelines carefully.