July 24, 2026
Please note: This email is being sent to all Foothill-De Anza District Employees.
Dear Foothill-De Anza Community,
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) has issued a Final Rule eliminating Duration of Status (D/S), for international students on F-1 and other
visa types. Under the new rule, students on an F-1 visa would be admitted for a fixed
period of stay rather than for D/S. The rule is scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026. However, it is important to note that the implementation timeline and specific requirements
may change over the coming months, as legal challenges to the rule are anticipated.
At this time, no action is required of international students, and they should follow
all current immigration requirements.
International Student Programs (ISP) is carefully reviewing the rule and is working
with partners across the District, as well as colleagues at other California Community
Colleges, University of California campuses, and professional organizations such as
NAFSA and the President's Alliance, to assess its impact on our international student
community and to determine the appropriate next steps. Together, we are identifying
best practices and developing processes that will comply with the new regulations
while minimizing the impact on our students. ISP has also taken proactive steps over
the past several months and has already contacted students who may be immediately
affected to provide support.
What does the elimination of D/S mean for international students with an F-1 visa
at Foothill-De Anza?
At this time:
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No action is required
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Students should continue to maintain their F-1 status and follow all current immigration requirements and ISP guidance.
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Students should monitor their Foothill–De Anza email regularly for updates and contact ISP directly with any questions or concerns.
ISP staff on both campuses will host a series of information sessions and other opportunities
for our international students to learn more about the new regulations, ask questions,
and receive guidance. Faculty, staff, and administrators are encouraged to direct
international students with questions to the ISP office or contact:
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Foothill College: foothillinternational@fhda.edu
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De Anza College: dainternational@fhda.edu
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Districtwide Compliance Questions: Jennifer Brook, Executive Director, International Student Programs – brookjennifer@fhda.edu
The District and ISP will continue to monitor this development closely and will keep
our campus community and international students informed as additional guidance becomes
available. Because this is a developing federal regulation, we may not yet have answers
to every question; however, we are committed to providing timely, accurate information
and supporting our students throughout this process.
Thank you for your support.
Sincerely,
Ellen Kamei, MPA (She/Her)
Director of Community and Government Relations and Public Information Officer
Foothill-De Anza Community College District
12345 El Monte Road, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022
Email: kameiellen@fhda.edu
Phone: (650) 949-6107
