Rules for Academic Study

As of September 15, 2026, F-1 international students have new restrictions on their academic studies. Some of these changes apply to all education levels, and some apply differently for graduate students and students below graduate level.

Student sitting at a desk types on a laptop

Below Graduate Level

  • 24-month cap on English language study
  • No changes to major or educational level during the first academic year
  • No transferring to another school during the first academic year
  • Students who complete their first academic year are eligible to change their major, pursue another degree program, or transfer to another school

Graduate Level

  • No change of educational level or major at any point during their program of study
  • No transfers at any point, unless SEVP grants an exception due to rare, serious circumstances (i.e. natural disaster, school closure, etc.)
  • Graduate students who want to transfer or change programs will need to depart the U.S. and re-enter with a new I-20

No Lateral or Reverse Matriculation

Students who complete a program after September 15, 2026 may only continue in F-1 status by beginning a program at a higher educational level.

Changes that are allowable:

  • Bachelor’s  →  Master’s
  • Bachelor’s  →  OPT  →  Master’s
  • Master’s  →  Doctoral
  • Master’s  →  OPT  →  Doctoral
  • Doctoral  →  OPT

Changes that are NOT allowable:

  • Bachelor’s  →  Bachelor’s
  • Bachelor’s  →  Associates
  • Master’s  →  Master’s
  • Master’s  →  Bachelor’s
  • Master’s  →  Associates
  • Doctoral  →  Doctoral
  • Doctoral  →  Master’s
  • Doctoral  →  Bachelor’s
  • Doctoral  →  Associates

Degree programs completed before September 15, 2026 do not count toward this restriction.

Transferring Between Institutions

Restrictions on SEVIS record transfer:

  • Students below graduate level may not transfer during their first academic year
  • Graduate students may not transfer at any time, unless they receive a special exception from the Student & Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)
  • After completing an academic program, students may only transfer to continue their education at a higher educational level

Eligibility for SEVIS record transfer:

  • The student has been admitted to another SEVP-certified school and will begin taking classes in the next available term or within five months, whichever is sooner, unless taking an authorized break or vacation during that term
  • The student is maintaining F-1 status
  • The student has not been placed on academic probation or school suspension
  • If the student has completed their program, they are transferring to a higher educational level

Transferring to a new school does not extend your authorized period of stay in the United States. If your new program end date is beyond your current authorized admission period (as stated on your I-94), you may also need to apply for an Extension of Stay.