ISSS Advising Resources on the Final Rule
In this page we list out ISSS's evolving resources - including webinars, guides, and workshops - to help our community prepare for the new F and J regulations effective September 15, 2026.
ISSS Resources
ISSS is preparing additional resources and supports for our international student and scholar community ahead of new F-1 and J-1 regulations going into effect on September 15, 2026. Please check back frequently, as we develop additional tools and materials.
Due to the complexity of the new regulations contained in the final rule establishing fixed time periods for international students and scholars, ISSS is preparing special advising events and resources.
Information Session
ISSS will hold a general information session and review of the final rule on [ ]. Attendance is restricted to members of the Brown community (alumni on post-completion OPT or Academic Training are welcome to attend), and registration is required. The webinar will be recorded and will be available for a limited period of time to registered attendees.
- Event Date:
- Registration: [In preparation]
Zoom Drop-in Hours (No Appointment Necessary)
When: Every Monday from 1pm - 2pm (EDT) / starting August 3, 2026 and ending October 12, 2026
Link: Join the Meeting
ISSS Director Andrew Shiotani will be available for drop-in hours to answer specific questions about the final rule on fixed time periods of admission. These drop-in advising hours are intended for brief conversations around specific questions about the final rule on fixed admission, and will NOT cover other topics, such as visa delays, the status of CPT or OPT requests, or related topics.
Pre-recorded Tutorials
These recorded presentations are designed to help you understand different aspects of the new regulations. Each workshop is limited to approximately 10 to 15 minutes and is devoted to a specific topic or set of topics.
- The Fixed Time Period Regulations in a Nutshell (anticipated release date: August 15, 2026)
- Understanding Your I-94 - and Why It's Important (anticipated release date: August 15, 2026)
- Understanding the F and J Extension Process (anticipated release date: September 1, 2026)
Email Us
If you have questions specifically about the Fixed Admission final rule, e-mail us a question using this dedicated contact form. Using this contact form will help us to manage individual questions.
Resources for Departments
Departments will play a critical role in ensuring a successful transition to the new fixed admission system for international students and scholars. To help our campus partners understand how rules and regulations are changing for our international students and scholars, ISSS will hold a series of information sessions.
- Event Date:
- Registration:
In addition, ISSS will be preparing a Campus Advisory available upon request via email to isss@brown.edu. This resource should be available by August 1, 2026.
ISSS welcomes requests for departmental Zoom or on-site information sessions regarding the new fixed admission system. Please contact ISSS Director Andrew Shiotani or your ISSS contact to express your interest.