ISRC Webinars

Listen to our webinars and gain new insights and resources on navigating the latest developments for international students and scholars.

ISRC/NAFSA Region XII The End of Duration of Status: Preparing Your J Scholar Advisors

There have been several webinars offered on the pending "Loss of D/S" Rule, but none have focused on the impacts to J-1 Exchange Visitor scholars, and the advisors who support them. This joint presentation between the International Student Resource Center and NAFSA Region XII examines specific provisions of the rule that will most affect scholars and scholar advisors, and brainstorm ways to offer proactive support.

Exploring Entrepreneurial Opportunities for International Students

This timely webinar, hosted by Interstride and the International Student Resource Center (ISRC), will provide critical information to help international students and DSOs / AROs understand the nuances of various non-standard types of experiential and entrepreneurial activities. A panel of experienced immigration attorneys will walk participants through real-world examples and regulatory interpretations.

J-1 Early Career STEM Research Pathway

Speakers provided an overview of the J-1 Early Career STEM Research Initiative first announced under the Biden-Harris Administration, including its history, components, benefits to academic institutions, challenges, and examples. The webinar also provided an example of how prospective hosting organizations can use a State Department-designated sponsor to participate in this program. Lastly, attendees learned about the Legal Pathways that Work initiative, including how noncitizen students and graduates, higher education professionals, and employers interested in hosting and hiring noncitizen talent can access more information on pathways via the LPTW resource hub.

The End of Duration of Status? What Campuses and Students Need to Know to Prepare

This is a webinar on the anticipated final rule to end duration of status (D/S) for international students and scholars. As institutions await the final rule, this session will provide an overview of what we know so far, including potential implications for campuses, administrators, and students, and how colleges and universities can prepare for the possible changes.

Our expert speakers will outline practical steps institutions can take now to mitigate disruption and support the impacted students and scholars. The session will also explore potential legal and policy pathways, including possible scenarios for challenging the rule, and what different stakeholders can anticipate in the months ahead.

Navigating H-1B Visa Changes: Policy Updates and Resources for Higher Education

Hosted by the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration and the International Student Resource Center, the event will bring together subject matter experts to share the latest policy updates and legal developments, discuss key arguments and messaging, and provide tools and resources for institutions and impacted students and scholars.

During the session, attendees will gain insights and resources to:

  • Navigate the most recent and anticipated regulatory changes to the H-1B program Understand the current status of ongoing litigation efforts

  • Leverage resources, guidance, and tools to respond to current developments and prepare for future changes

  • Assess the potential impacts of these changes on international students, scholars, and campuses

Innovative Approaches for Supporting International Graduate Students

Over the past year, leading nonprofit and philanthropic organizations—including NAFSA, Renaissance Philanthropy’s Talent Mobility Fund, and the Institute for Progress—have launched innovative, data-driven initiatives to better understand the U.S. immigration system and elevate the profound impact international scholars have on research and development, workforce competitiveness, and economic growth.

In this GradFUTURES Forum online panel, participants will:

  • Understand past, present and emerging trends shaping the international student and scholar experience

  • Gain insights from national leaders in international education and U.S. immigration policy

  • Learn how to use practical, evidence-based tools to support and advocate for international scholars at your institution and beyond