Zuzana Wootson

The Trump administration has finalized a rule limiting international students to a maximum four-year stay in the U.S. unless granted federal approval, with additional restrictions on changing academic programs. The policy, effective September, faces criticism from higher education leaders who argue it creates administrative burdens and undermines existing oversight systems.

The Trump administration finalized a rule limiting international students' stay in the U.S. to four years without federal approval and imposing restrictions on changing academic programs. The rule, effective September, faces opposition from higher education leaders who argue it creates administrative burdens and reduces flexibility. The Department of Homeland Security claims it addresses visa loopholes, while critics warn it could drive international students to other countries.

The Trump administration finalized a rule limiting international students to a four-year stay in the U.S. unless approved by the federal government, effective in September. The rule also restricts changing majors or academic programs and faces opposition from higher education leaders, who argue it creates administrative burdens and sends a negative message amid declining international student enrollment.