Visa screening, CPT and court challenges reshape US international student landscape

Several immigration developments are simultaneously affecting international students in the United States, from visa screening and CPT guidance to litigation over how long students may remain in the country.

The most immediate development is the federal court injunction that paused the DHS rule ending Duration of Status for F-1 and J-1 students. The existing framework remains in effect while the case continues.

At the same time, SEVP guidance has narrowed how universities are interpreting CPT eligibility, while the State Department continues online presence review for student visa applicants.

International students and universities are also monitoring employment-related developments, including OPT filing requirements and the ongoing litigation surrounding the proposed $100,000 H-1B fee.

For students, the practical message is to rely on current guidance from their university’s international office, the U.S. Department of State and USCIS rather than social-media summaries or outdated immigration advice.

Sources: U.S. Department of State; DHS/SEVP guidance as summarized by university international offices; Reuters; September 2026.