International Student and Scholar Services

Contributing to Comprehensive Internationalization

Crisis Management

Office Administration

Orientation, Retention, and Student Services Programming

Student and Scholar Advising

Optional Practical Training Resource: Understanding the Online and Mailed Application and Troubleshooting Processes

Compiled by NAFSA members: Hanna Bliss, Laure Bordas-Isner, Sarah Brockmeyer, Joshua Davis, Michelle Massey, and Nusha Shishegar. Last updated January 26, 2023. The resource includes helpful tips on: Documents Needed to File for OPT Troubleshooting Resources: Rejected and Denied Applications

Tips for Achieving Success as a Scholar-Practitioner

For many international educators working full time as practitioners, the process of getting started in publishing can be overwhelming. International education has many opportunities for professional development – attending or presenting at conferences, serving in volunteer leadership roles, as well

The USCIS Special Situations Page

November 12, 2025

USCIS's Immigration Relief in Emergencies or Unforeseen Circumstances page (formerly called the "Special Situations" page) describes long-standing, preexisting options that might be of use in an emergency situation. The page states: "USCIS has discretion to take the following measures on a case-by

Responding to a Worldwide Health Crisis and Travel Restrictions

Recent concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus has myriad implications for the international education community in the United States and abroad. This Town Hall for NAFSA members provided context for the current challenges for international educators and shared updates on the travel

F-1 Student Advising for Beginners

July 15 - 17, 2026 | 2:00 pm

Jumpstart your career in F-1 student advising through essential DSO training that builds compliance expertise, equips you with real-world scenario solutions, and develops your confidence in navigating international student visa regulations. Explore now!

Employment-Based Permanent Residence

July 29 - 31, 2026 | 2:00 pm

Strengthen your institution's employment-based permanent residency protocols through hands-on training that covers faculty and staff cases, critical documentation requirements, and proven policy development strategies for immigration success. Find out more!

Programming Design for International Educators

Craft impactful international education programs through systematic design that integrates student orientation, cultural engagement, and stakeholder development while maximizing resources and institutional compliance. See full details!

Strategies for International Student and Scholar Advising

Deepen your international student advising expertise beyond regulations through adaptive counseling strategies, intercultural communication skills, and personalized support frameworks that transform student and scholar interactions. Learn more now!

NAFSA COVID-19 Regulatory Requests to the Agencies

A number of NAFSA letters sent to agency leadership ask the agencies to address immigration-related COVID-19 concerns within four major groupings that offer specific examples: Protect the immigration status of students, scholars, staff, and faculty at U.S. educational institutions Provide

NAFSA Resources for Operational Resilience

NASFA offers these resources and guidance on crisis management for COVID-19 and other crises for the international education community. NAFSA hopes this information helps you, your programs, and your students during this challenging time.