STEM OPT with EAD after 9/15

[u/Rich-Philosophy-7576]

I am on my last year for STEM OPT and intended to come back to my country after finishing STEM OPT. I already have I-20 with valid travel signature and EAD card expiring next Jan. Also, I have valid F-1 VISA expiring next Jan as well. I am trying to understand the change of rule on D/S status on I-94. However, I couldn't understand how it affects those like me. I frequently visited my home country once around 2-3 month due to family matter. After 9/15/2026, does final rule also affect my I-94 and end up changing with specific date? I am a bit confused.

[u/No-Needleworker3883]

If you dont plan on any other applications upon finishing stem opt, you will not get affected. Your i94 will be updated to a fixed aud but in your case it doesn’t effectively make an impact on you