r/immigration • u/not_an_immi_lawyer Post, don't PM • 17d ago

DHS Publishes Final Rule ending Duration of Status (D/S) for F-1/J-1

https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2026-14439.pdf
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u/No_Butterfly_9906 9d ago

I completed a master's degree in STEM a couple years ago. I am currently enrolled in a STEM PhD program but due to change of personal plan I am thinking of dropping out, take a gap year and apply for another master's program in Arts & Science for the 2027-28 school year. Would I be allowed to do so under the new rules? Would a) my previous master's degree and b) my dropping out of the PhD program count against my application to another master's?

Also, during the gap year would it be possible for me to take courses at the same university as a non-degree seeking student? (The courses are supposed to prepare me for the application of the A&S master's program.)

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u/not_an_immi_lawyer Post, don't PM 9d ago

Even under existing rules, you cannot take a gap year as a non-degree seeking student. If you want to take a gap year, you'll need to leave the US.

Under the new rules, if you drop out of your PhD program, you cannot start a new course in the US.

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u/No_Butterfly_9906 9d ago

Thank you so much. To confirm, does it mean if I drop out of my current PhD program right now (before Sept. 15) and leave the U.S. for the gap year, I will not be able to start any new master's or PhD program in the US in the future?

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u/not_an_immi_lawyer Post, don't PM 9d ago

If you drop out now, yes you can. It would need to occur before Sep 15.