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August 11, 2026
Dear reader,

We hope your summer is going well and that you are finding time to recharge, whether you are enjoying Seattle sunshine, spending time elsewhere in the U.S., or visiting family and friends abroad. As autumn quarter approaches, we are looking forward to welcoming you back and helping you prepare for the year ahead.

ISS has been hard at work reviewing and understanding the new Duration of Status (D/S) policy changes. We have now released our initial understandings, and we encourage all F-1 and J-1 continuing students to review the latest updates on our D/S Hub.

Lastly, please also note that during the two weeks leading up to Labor Day, ISS staff will be working remotely as we prepare for the upcoming academic year. You can still reach out via email, online chat, or virtual advising. Our office will be closed on Labor Day, Monday, September 7. After the holiday, our front desk lobby hours will return to 10 AM-4 PM.
--- News & Reminders ---

ISS Releases Initial Understanding of New Immigration Policies


International Student Services has released it's initial understanding of the new immigration policies published by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). These changes replace the longstanding Duration of Status policy and also impose several new restrictions on academic changes and mobility.

To learn about these new rules, students should read through the D/S Hub and register for an upcoming information session with the ISS team.

Returning to Seattle for the Autumn quarter?

If you are spending the summer outside U.S., now's a good time to start making preparations for your return. As you make plans to return for autumn quarter, be sure to review your travel documents, check your I-20 or DS-2019, and allow plenty of time for travel and reentry.

When traveling back to the U.S., be sure to carry these documents with you:
  • Valid passport
  • Valid visa
  • I-20 or DS-2019 with valid travel signature
  • Class schedule
ISS looks forward to welcoming you back to campus soon!

USCIS Revises Policy on RFEs and NOIDs

On August 5, 2026, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced updated policy guidance on evidence requirements, Requests for Evidence (RFEs), and Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs). The policy is effective immediately as of August 5, 2026 and applies to benefit requests pending or filed on or after that date.

Read more...
--- Dates & Events ---
  • Aug. 21: End of Summer Quarter
  • Aug. 24-Sept. 04: ISS Remote Operations
  • Sept. 07: Office Closed (Holiday)
  • Sept. 30: Start of Autumn Quarter
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