New Rule: No Lateral or Downward Degree Changes
Starting September 15, 2026, F-1 students will not be permitted to pursue a degree at the same level or lower than a degree they have already completed. This means:
- If you have completed a Bachelor's degree, you cannot change to a different Bachelor's degree program.
- If you have completed a Master's degree, you cannot change to a different Master's degree program.
- You can only pursue higher-level degrees: from Bachelor's to Master's, or from Master's to Ph.D.
Why This New Rule?
This rule is part of a major restructuring of the student visa and international student system, effective September 15, 2026. The U.S. government wants to limit cases where students use F-1 visas to continuously change their academic plans without a clear purpose.
Real-World Pitfall
Students who have completed a degree must pay attention: If you are currently enrolled in a Bachelor's program and plan to transfer to a different Bachelor's program (for example, from Economics to Engineering), you must complete this transfer before September 15, 2026. After that date, if you have completed a Bachelor's degree, transferring to another Bachelor's program will be denied.
Currently enrolled students must act now: If you are planning a major change but will remain at the same degree level, contact your school's Designated School Official (DSO) immediately. Some schools may allow a major change if you submit your request before September 15.
Other restrictions also apply: This rule includes new restrictions on changing your field of study, transferring schools, or pursuing a supplementary or lower-level degree.
If You Want to Change Your Major, What Are Your Legal Options?
- Pursue a higher degree: You can transfer from a Bachelor's degree to a Master's degree, or from a Master's degree to a Ph.D., without restrictions.
- Request permission before 9/15: If you want to change to a major at the same degree level, submit your request before September 15, 2026. Some schools may process this quickly.
- Consult your DSO: Every school has a Designated School Official who handles visa matters. They are the authority to explain this rule as it applies to your specific situation.
Important Precaution
This rule is not an exception or negotiable. It is federal law. If you violate it, you will lose F-1 status and must leave the United States. There is no opportunity to remedy the situation or appeal once your request is denied.