The Office of International Affairs

Important Immigration Update for J-1 Exchange Visitors

The U.S. Department of State has notified Exchange Visitor Program sponsors of a new Department of Homeland Security final rule affecting J-1 exchange visitors. The rule eliminates the current duration of status (D/S) framework and replaces it with a fixed period of admission.

The rule is scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026. J-1 exchange visitors who enter or reenter the United States on or after that date will be admitted for a fixed period of time not to exceed four years, depending on their specific exchange visitor program category.

Please review the official DHS final rule for additional information. The Office of International Affairs will provide further guidance as it becomes available.

Official DHS Final Rule

Important Immigration Update for F-1 Students

On July 17, 2026, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final rule establishing a fixed period of admission for F-1 students and an extension-of-stay process. The rule is scheduled to take effect on September 15, 2026.

The rule includes transition provisions for F-1 students who are in the United States in a valid status before the effective date. Students should review the official Study in the States Quick Facts for information about the upcoming changes and how they may be affected.

Study in the States Quick Facts

Bringing the World to You and Taking You to See the World

North Carolina Central University welcomes students from across the world, creating a dynamic and globally connected campus.

International Students and Scholar Services

Welcome to North Carolina Central University! The Office of International Affairs (OIA) is here to support you throughout your journey.

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About OIA

Discover how NCCU's Office of International Affairs (OIA) fosters global education through study abroad programs, international collaboration, and support for international students and scholars.

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Prospective Students

If you are a prospective international student and have questions concerning undergraduate or graduate admissions, please contact Undergraduate Admissions or Graduate Admissions. The deadlines for international students requiring an I-20 to study are March 1 (Fall grad), April 1 (Fall undergrad), and September 1 (Spring).

Current Students

If you are a current student with an immigration concern, please email [email protected] or call the main office at 919-530-7912 to schedule an appointment with an international student advisor.

Alumna and Former U.S. Ambassador Visits NCCU

International Education Week (Nov. 18–22) celebrates the benefits of global learning and cultural exchange. We kicked off the week with an inspiring talk by Ambassador Mattie R. Sharpless, who shared her incredible experiences with students. It was a fantastic event to set the tone for a week of global engagement and learning!

Education Abroad

Through various consortiums and partnerships, NCCU supports students in pursuing study-abroad experiences.

Education Abroad

Fulbright Scholarships

The Fulbright U.S. Student Program expands perspectives through academic and professional advancement and cross-cultural dialogue. In partnership with more than 140 countries worldwide, the Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers unparalleled opportunities in all academic disciplines to graduating college seniors, graduate students, and young professionals from all backgrounds.

Get Started with Fulbright

For Faculty and Staff

Faculty-Led Study Abroad Program

Check out "Five Steps to Planning a Successful Faculty-Led Program," created by Compear Global Education Network for North Carolina Central University.

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International Scholars and Faculty

Review our immigration guide for employing international faculty, scholars and guest speakers.

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Filing Taxes for International Students

Start Filing Your Taxes

Tax issues can be complicated for U.S. citizens and even more so for individuals visiting the U.S. from another country. Whether or not you worked in the U.S., you may have tax filing obligations each year you are present in the U.S. 

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Sprintax Instructions for Students

Sprintax is the only online self-preparation software that will guide you through each part of the tax preparation process.

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Sprintax Webinar Schedule: 2025 Tax Season

Kick off the 2026 Spring semester with clarity. This seminar is designed to help international students simplify the filing process, from tax forms to visa-related documentation. Gain the tools to manage your paperwork like a pro so you can get back to what matters most: your studies and your success.

Sprintax Webinar Schedule

Sprintax Brochure: Tax Content for Schools

If you were in the U.S. on a J visa at any time between January 1 and December 31 of the tax year, you are required to submit at least one Form 8843 to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), even if you did not earn any income.

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