On July 17, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published major F and J Regulatory Changes for some international programs. The regulations impose major changes on the “F,” “J” and “I” nonimmigrant programs. Lesley participates in the F-1 program (academic student), our focus will be on interpreting impact to the F-1 student status, which includes OPT and STEM OPT. Assuming no changes are made to the rules during the current 60-day implementation period, the final regulations will go into effect on September 15, 2026. Our office is carefully evaluating the rules, additional information will soon be forthcoming. In the interim, you may check this Study in the States page.
The Lesley Office of International Student Services (ISS) provides specialized services to international students wishing to study in F-1 status. ISS collaborates with administrative and academic departments to create a welcoming and inclusive campus environment. The office is here to support students from the admissions process through graduation, and beyond. Check the menu options on this page for information on how to apply for the Lesley Form I-20 and all F-1 compliance related information, for incoming and current international student support. Contact iss@lesley.edu with all F-1/I-20-related questions.
International students on the Lesley Form I-20/F-1 sponsorship must always comply with the F-1 regulations. The Lesley I-20 only permits academic study of Lesley University coursework. It does not permit coursework outside of Lesley, including that from online schools.
International students not sponsored by the Lesley F-1 program should consult with their immigration attorney on compliance questions specific to their status. It is the international student’s responsibility to maintain legal non-immigrant status. Contact iss@lesley.edu if you need general immigration resource information.
International Admissions, for Admissions questions, contact admissions@lesley.edu, for undergraduate students and luadmissions@lesley.edu for graduate students.
For Study Abroad questions, contact advising@lesley.edu.