Visa Policy Updates
This page provides the most current information available from Tarrant County College (TCC) regarding regulatory changes that may affect international students and exchange visitors. As additional federal guidance becomes available, information on this page will be updated.
If information on other TCC webpages conflicts with what is provided here, please follow the guidance on this page.
Elimination of Duration of Status
What You Need to Know
On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a new rule that will end Duration of Status (D/S) and replace it with a date-specific period of stay for F-1 and J-1 students and exchange visitors.
- Under the current D/S system, you may stay in the United States as long as you maintain your immigration status and follow the requirements of your Form I-20 or DS-2019.
- Under the new rule, you will instead receive a specific end date on your I-94 arrival/departure record. You may need to apply for an Extension of Stay if additional time is required. The new rule is currently scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026.
What You Should Do Right Now
At this time, you should:
- Continue your studies as normal.
- Maintain full-time enrollment and all F-1 requirements.
- Review the program end date on your Form I-20.
- Monitor your TCC email and this webpage for updates.
Because implementation guidance is still evolving, after August 17, 2026, you should consult International Student Admissions & Compliance (ISAC) before making decisions about travel, employment, transfers, program changes, or graduation timelines.
Updated August 07, 2026