Studying in US? Universities issue urgent advisory ahead of major DHS visa policy shift

International students planning to study in the United States have been urged by several universities to return to the country before September 15, 2026, as the US government prepares to introduce a major change to its immigration system.The advisory follows the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) decision to replace the long-standing "duration of status (D/S)" system with a "fixed time period of admission" framework. The new rule is scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026, after a 60-day implementation period.The policy change is expected to affect thousands of international students and exchange visitors, including those from India, who are enrolled in US colleges and universities.Universities caution students against delayed travelSeveral US universities have advised international students, scholars, and exchange visitors to complete their travel and re-enter the United States before the new rule comes into force.Institutions have warned that those arriving after September 15 could face additional immigration procedures…