News

Dear Admitted International Students,

As we prepare to welcome you to campus, we want to share an important update regarding U.S. immigration policies. Earlier today, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced significant changes to federal immigration policies, specifically moving from an open-ended “Duration of Status” framework to a fixed “Duration of Stay” framework for international students and scholars.

We know that news of federal policy changes can bring up questions as you plan for your journey. Please rest assured that Lehigh’s commitment to your education, your goals, and your place in our global community remains completely unchanged. 

Lehigh University is unwavering in its commitment to supporting our international students and scholars and ensuring that students are able to pursue and complete their academic programs at Lehigh. As we navigate this transition, please keep the following key points in mind:

• Implementation is not immediate. Based on current federal guidance, these changes do not take effect today. There is a 60-day transition period following publication of the final rule before new requirements are fully implemented.
• Current documents remain valid. Current I-20 and DS-2019 documents remain valid for entry, and OISS will provide additional guidance regarding updated immigration procedures as more information becomes available.
• Academic continuity remains. While the rule may introduce new administrative procedures and fixed timelines, international students are still able to study and complete their degrees at Lehigh. Students whose programs require additional time beyond their initial admission period may have additional extension procedures available.
• You have our ongoing support. The Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) has been actively monitoring these developments and will continue providing guidance, FAQs, information sessions, and direct support to help students navigate any new requirements.

In the coming days, OISS will share additional guidance for incoming students, including FAQs, webinar information, and instructions regarding next steps and available resources.

We encourage students and families to avoid making decisions based on rumors or incomplete information circulating online or through social media. OISS will serve as the university’s central source for accurate and updated information.

Questions may be directed to intnl@lehigh.edu, and additional information will be posted on the OISS website at https://global.lehigh.edu/oiss. You may also view this letter in Spanish, Mandarin (Traditional), Mandarin (Simplified), and Vietnamese.

We are excited to welcome you to the Lehigh community and remain deeply committed to supporting your academic success and experience at Lehigh University.

Sincerely,

Nathan Urban
Provost and Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs

Cheryl Matherly
Vice President and Vice Provost for International Affairs