OIS is in Keefe 219 right across from the Class and Access Resource Center!

To schedule an in-person or virtual appointment with the OIS, visit calendly.com/ois-bliss. 

OIS drop-in hours (no appointment needed) in Keefe 219 when classes are in session:

Are you planning to use Curricular Practical Training (CPT) to work at an internship in the U.S. this summer? Check out the OIS's CPT information page or visit an upcoming CPT workshop to learn who is eligible for CPT and how to apply for CPT. 

Are you planning to use Optional Practical Training (OPT) to work in the U.S. this summer?  Apply ASAP!

There are lots of ways to learn more about applying for OPT.  Check out the OIS's OPT information page for more information and application instructions; or drop in for one of our OPT workshops to learn more and have your questions answered.

USCIS Announces Premium Processing for Certain F-1 Students and Online Filing for Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service
On March 6, 2023, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the expansion of premium processing for certain F-1 students. For the first time, Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service, is also available to file online for students seeking optional practical training (OPT) or science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) OPT.  The cost is $1500 to ensure processing within a 30 days.

DHS Redesignates and Extends Special Student Relief Employment Benefits to Somali Students
On March 10, 2023, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) posted a Federal Register Notice announcing the suspension of certain regulatory requirements for F-1 nonimmigrant students from Somalia who are experiencing severe economic hardship as a result of the current crisis in Somalia. This notice redesignates Special Student Relief (SSR) to include eligible students who are in a lawful F-1 status as of March 18, 2023 and extends relief until Sept. 17, 2024.  If you would like to apply, reach out to the OIS.

DS-2019s Can Soon Be Sent Electronically
The Department of State is making administrative changes to the regulations to include providing sponsors two new options: using digital signature software to sign Certificates of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status (DS-2019s) and electronically transmitting Forms DS-2019. The final rule was published in the Federal Register on March 28, 2023, and will be effective 30 days from publication.

CDC Ends COVID-19 Testing Requirements for Entry by Air Passengers From China
On March 14, 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the rescission of the Order requiring negative pre-departure COVID–19 test result or documentation of recovery from COVID–19 for aircraft passengers traveling to the United States from the People’s Republic of China, includin the Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macau.

Tax returns are due April 18th, and Sprintax is offering helpful webinars  In these tax webinars, international students will be run through everything they need to know about nonresident tax for the 2022 tax season.  Topics will include:

To register, visit Upcoming Sprintax Webinars!

Check out these free webinars, co-sponsored by Interstride and Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy, LLP.  Registrants will receive a copy of the slides and recording.