On July 17, 2026, the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) published new Regulatory Changes imposing significant updates to the “F” status, which includes OPT and STEM OPT. There is a 60-day implementation period from July 17, 2026 – September 15, 2026. The new regulations go into effect September 15, 2026. Only those “F” status individuals (including those on OPT or STEM OPT) who are fully compliant with all F-1 regulations are eligible for any “F status” related benefit. In addition to the Federal Register information, you may also review the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Summary of the new regulations on their Study in the States website. We are in the process of updating our website accordingly. Feel free to contact iss@lesley.edu with specific questions. Please note that the information provided is subject to change and may evolve in response to developments in the immigration landscape. As such, it should not be considered static or permanent.
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.