The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has proposed a rule to limit international student visas to four years, a move that could affect thousands of prospective students, according to a report from Spectrum News. The proposal would amend the current “Duration of Status” policy, which allows students to remain in the country as long as they are enrolled in a U.S. institution.
Former international student Zuzana Wootson said the rule could discourage applicants. “I would consider countries that are more open and welcoming and potentially offer me at least the certainty of being able to finish my degree,” she said. Advocates argue the policy would add unnecessary pressure, noting that many degree programmes exceed four years in duration.
DHS said the proposal is aimed at preventing individuals from becoming “forever” students to remain in the U.S. indefinitely. “Foreign students have taken advantage of U.S. generosity,” the proposal states. Critics warn the rule could further reduce enrolment, which has already dropped 17 per cent this academic year.