The Trump administration has recently approved a set of new, highly restrictive rules targeting foreign students at universities across the United States. These changes, outlined in a detailed analysis by immigration policy expert David Bier of the Cato Institute, impose significant constraints on international students holding F, J, and I visas.

Previously, such students were admitted for the "duration of status," allowing them to remain in the US as long as they complied with visa regulations. The Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) new final rule replaces this with a fixed maximum entry period of four years for international students and exchange visitors.

Key provisions include requiring F-1 students who change educational objectives or transfer to an SEVP-certified school to complete their first academic year at the original institution that issued their Form I-20, unless an exception is granted by SEVP. Additionally, F-1 students at the graduate level or above are prohibited from changing educational objectives during their program. The rule also mandates that nonimmigrant students who have completed a program at one educational level may only begin another program at a higher educational level as F-1 students, barring changes to the same or lower levels.

An example clarifies that the rule does not prevent students from pursuing combined degrees, such as a J.D./M.B.A., at one institution with a single I-20 form reflecting the extended program duration.

Critics argue these restrictions are gratuitous and unjust, likely damaging the US economy and denying many valuable educational opportunities without sufficient justification. The policies have sparked debate about fairness and meritocracy in educational admissions and immigration policy.

Sources