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International Student Services provides a summary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) proposed federal rule change to end “duration of status” (D/S) for nonimmigrants granted entry to the U.S. in F, J, or I status. Duration of status refers to the period of lawful stay a nonimmigrant in F, J, or I status is granted upon entry to the U.S. on the Form I-94. (The I nonimmigrant visa status is not a visa type sponsored by UW-Madison.)

Earlier this year, two cases challenging the Feb. 14, 2025 Dear Colleague Letter (DCL) and related directives were dismissed following the government’s withdrawal of its appeal and agreement to not enforce directives in the DCL. The government dismissal of the appeal does not impact UW–Madison’s current guidance.

Last week, President Trump signed the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2026. 11 of the 12 regular appropriations bills are now enacted for FY26, with the exception of the Homeland Security appropriations bill. The likelihood of a partial government shutdown is high, though we do not anticipate any significant impacts on UW–Madison’s operations.

During the Board of Regents meeting last week, Chancellor Jennifer L. Mnookin shared an update regarding federal research funding changes over the past year.

University leadership and the Office of Federal Relations continue to closely monitor the state of federal funding. At this point, it remains an incredibly fluid situation.

UW–Madison remains committed to keeping our community informed so all can navigate rights, responsibilities and resources related to law and policy.

Yesterday, over 400 business leaders across the country sent a letter to Congress urging them to “sustain funding for the National Science Foundation as a cornerstone of U.S. competitiveness.” UW–Madison facilitated the signatures of many Wisconsin industry stakeholders, with the support of Wisconsin Tech Council and gener8tor.

UW–Madison is aware of professional degree reclassifications that are part of the Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) Committee’s  proposed federal student-loan changes to implement the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. These changes could impact federal loan options for students in multiple UW–Madison degree programs. We are awaiting the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) in the Federal Register will coordinate university comments.

Today marks the 36th day of the federal government shutdown. Most of the university continues to operate normally.  

Due to the government shutdown, FoodShare (often known as SNAP) benefits for November are expected to be delayed. Student Affairs shared resources available for students who depend on SNAP, or need emergency food assistance.