Common Scenarios

The following examples illustrate how the rule may commonly apply to Missouri State students. Individual circumstances vary, and students should consult International Services before making decisions based on these examples.

I’m an undergraduate student on track to graduate on time. 

If you complete your degree within the period listed on your Form I-94, you may never need to request additional time in the U.S. while pursuing your undergraduate degree.  

This is the most common situation for Missouri State’s undergraduate international students. However, if you later apply for optional practical training, need an extra semester to finish your degree or otherwise remain in the U.S. beyond your Admit Until Date, you will need to obtain additional authorized stay. You can do that either by traveling and re-entering the country or by filing an Extension of Stay with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.  

Talk with your International Services advisor as your graduation date approaches, especially if you plan to apply for OPT or start a new degree program. 

I’m a graduate student in a program that runs longer than four years, or I’m not sure how long my program will take. 

Some graduate programs at Missouri State, particularly in the sciences and engineering, take longer than four years to complete. Under the new rule, your initial admission period is capped at four years even if your program is expected to take longer. 

This does not mean you must leave the country after four years. If you need more time to finish, you will need to request an Extension of Stay through USCIS or obtain a new admission period by traveling internationally and re-entering the U.S.  

Because many of Missouri State’s graduate students come from countries where consular visa appointments can involve longer wait times, students should plan well ahead and talk with International Services before relying on international travel to renew their admission period. 

I’m already enrolled and admitted for “duration of status.” Do I need to do anything right now? 

If you were admitted to the U.S. before Sept. 15, and your Form I-94 shows “D/S,” you generally are not required to take immediate action.  

You will continue under transition provisions tied to your current Form I-20 or DS-2019 until you travel internationally and re-enter the country, apply for an Extension of Stay or otherwise receive a new admission period.  

Watch for a fixed expiration date the next time you travel and re-enter, and talk with your advisor before booking international trips, including travel home to visit family, so you understand how re-entry may affect your timeline.