SUNY New Paltz boasts a large and diverse international student population with students on long- and short-term programs. We hope the Center for International Programs will serve as your home away from home while you are in New Paltz. The staff and faculty at the Center for International Programs are happy to assist you while you study at SUNY New Paltz.

You will find much of the information you need on this website and on the main SUNY New Paltz website. If you wish to talk to a staff member, please come to our office, call us, or send us an email. International Student Advisors are available to answer questions during walk-in hours or you can make an appointment to meet an advisor. 
                              

Immigration Update

On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published a final rule in the Federal Register titled “Establishing a Fixed Time Period of Admission and an Extension of Stay Procedure for Nonimmigrant Academic Students, Exchange Visitors, and Representatives of Foreign Information Media.”

This rule introduces a new fixed period of admission and replaces the longstanding Duration of Status (D/S) policies and procedures for F and J students and scholars. 

Beginning on September 15, 2026,  F and J students and scholars will be admitted to the United States for a fixed period of time, up to the length of the program of study listed on the Form I-20 or DS-2019, not to exceed four years, plus a 30-day period for arrival and an additional 30-day period for departure. This fixed period of time will be indicated by a specific Admit Until Date (AUD) on the electronic Form I-94.

This is a complex regulatory change that requires substantial review. SUNY New Paltz is carefully reviewing these policy changes and awaiting additional implementation guidance from DHS and SEVP.  We also recognize that legal challenges to the rule or other developments could potentially impact the effective date.

The International Student Programs office will provide additional information, written updates, and opportunities to learn more as guidance becomes available.  In the meantime, you may want to review this Study in the States Final Rule FAQ.

Click here to learn more!