J-1 Student Status Overview
PAUSED due to nationwide injunction: Fixed period of admission & extension of stay
The DHS Fixed Period of Admission Final Rule (published July 17, 2026) was scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026. However, because of ongoing litigation, implementation of the rule has been delayed, and it will not take effect on that date. For now, the current regulations remain in place and continue to govern F and J for nonimmigrants. This means the existing duration of status system for F and J students and exchange visitors remains unchanged.
On July 17, 2026, the U.S. government published a final rule that creates a fixed admission end date for international students who hold F-1 and J-1 visa status. This rule changes the process for these students to extend their stays in the United States and adds other restrictions limiting the students’ ability to make academic changes. Re-entry to the U.S. on or after the September 15 effective date will result in the immediate assignment of a specific Admit Unitl Date (AUD); the benefit of the D/S transition provision is eliminated after that reentry.
- Information on this webpage does not yet reflect the final rule. ISSS appreciates your understanding as we update our content to reflect changes.
- FAQs for students in F-1 status in the U.S. prior to rule effective date
Feel free to contact ISSS with questions.
Maintaining J-1 Student Status
Your eligibility to pursue your academic program as well as opportunities for academic training, school transfers, and program changes depend on maintaining lawful status. A violation of the J-1 regulations could result in the termination of your J-1 SEVIS record and severe immigration consequences. Make sure you understand the J-1 visa requirements, and if you have any questions, contact ISSS for assistance.
Report your initial arrival at CU Boulder
- Submit the Immigration Check-In and Insurance Compliance e-forms.
Maintain comprehensive medical insurance including evacuation and repatriation coverage that meets government minimum requirements
Maintain full-time enrollment every fall and spring semester
Report new addresses within 10 days of every move so your SEVIS record can be updated
- Active Students: Update your address in Buff Portal
- Students on Academic Training: Email ISSS
Do not work without authorization or beyond allowable employment limits
- Abide by on-campus employment regulations and limitations
- Obtain prior authorization for on-campus employment and academic training and comply with related reporting rules
Pursue the program objective documented on your DS-2019
Keep your DS-2019 up-to-date
- Report all changes of biographical, program, and financial support information to ISSS
- Follow proper procedures for extending your DS-2019, changing educational levels, and transferring schools
Maintain required immigration documents including a valid passport and I-94 throughout your stay in the U.S.
Travel with required documents for re-entry to the U.S. in student status
Abide by J-1 grace period rules
- J-1 students have a 30-day grace period at the end of their J-1 program
- During the grace period, you cannot take part in any studies or employment opportunities and also cannot exit and re-enter the U.S. as a J-1 student