From Provost Julie Ross: F-1 and J-1 Visa "Duration of Status" Final Rule

Colleagues,

As many of you are aware, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has published a final rule changing how F-1 and J-1 international students and exchange visitors are admitted to the United States, moving away from the current "duration of status" framework. This is a significant regulatory change, and we understand it raises questions for members of our community who are directly affected, as well as those who work alongside them. 

The Cranwell International Center, in collaboration with academic partners and university leadership, is carefully reviewing the rule and its implications, and is committed to providing our F-1 and J-1 students with accurate and timely guidance as that review continues. Students should expect direct communication from Cranwell in the coming weeks regarding the new regulations, along with opportunities to ask questions and learn more about how this new final rule will impact their time as an international student. Working groups from across the university, spanning academic units, the graduate school, human resources, and student affairs are collaborating to determine how we can best support our international students and the academic units they are part of as we move forward. 

I want to reaffirm how much our international students, faculty, and staff mean to this university. Representing dozens of countries, they are essential to our teaching, research, and campus life. We are committed to supporting them through this transition and ensuring their success as Hokies. 

We will continue to share updates as more information becomes available. 

In the spirit of Ut Prosim, 
Julia M. Ross 
Executive Vice President and Provost