D/S Webinar & HIO Advising Resources

Dear International Students and Scholars, 

We understand the past several weeks have been confusing and concerning for many in our international community in light of the upcoming duration of status rule change and the two SEVP broadcast messages on requirements for curricular practical training (CPT).  

We’re writing to share information on an upcoming information session and expanded advising options to help provide you with further guidance and support during this period of transition. 

D/S Rule Info Session  

The HIO will host a virtual information session with attorney Dan Berger from the firm Green & Spiegel, who will present on the impact of new federal rule eliminating Duration of Status for F and J visa holders.  

The webinar will take place on Zoom at 5:30 p.m. EDT on September 14.  

Space is limited, so please register ahead of time and plan to join early. If possible, we encourage students and scholars to watch together on one screen to maximize the number of people who are able to attend.  

Register for the Info Session

Updated Advising Options

Beginning later this week, the HIO will begin offering small group advising sessions to help you get answers to your questions on topics like the D/S rule and requirements for Curricular Practical Training (CPT).  

HIO advisors will schedule group advising sessions based on topic. When you attend one of these sessions with your advisor, you’ll join a group of about 10 of your peers and have an opportunity to ask questions together.  

All the Ways to Connect with an HIO Advisor 

  • Small group sessions (coming soon)  
    • Best for asking questions in a group setting on a specific topic, such as the duration of status rule change or CPT. 
    • Check your advisor’s availability using their "Book an Appointment” link on the Meet With an Advisor page on the HIO website. 
  • Daily virtual drop-in hours  
    • Monday-Friday, 9-10 a.m. and 4-5 p.m. EDT (excluding holidays). 
    • Best for quick questions about standard advising topics, including travel, OPT, STEM OPT, Social Security Numbers, etc. 
    • Join on Zoom 
  • School-specific office hours 
    • Some HIO advisors hold drop-in office hours during the academic year for their advising populations.
    • Best for quick questions about standard advising topics, including travel, OPT, STEM OPT, Social Security Numbers, etc. 
    • Check the HIO website for details. 
  • Individual appointments 
    • Meet with your HIO advisor one-on-one in person or online. 
    • Best for questions related to your specific situation or that you wouldn’t feel comfortable discussing in a group setting.
    • Check your advisor’s availability using their "Book an Appointment” link on the Meet With an Advisor page.  

Stay Informed  

The HIO is continuing to review the Duration of Status rule change, and we will provide additional information and resources on our website as soon as they are available.  

Be sure to read all emails from the HIO and to regularly check the Latest News section of our website for important updates. 

We recognize that this has been a challenging period for our international community. The HIO is here to support you as we navigate this time together.  

Thank you, 
The Harvard International Office 

Share on: