This self-guided e-Learning course will take participants beyond the basics to improve advising strategies for F-1 students seeking employment and training benefits. Through a series of employment and training scenarios, participants will dive into the gray areas where answers require in-depth understanding of regulations and agency guidance, clear institutional policy, and an individualized advising approach that considers all the options.
This is an intermediate-level course. In order to successfully apply the complex skills that are covered, participants must have some prior advising experience or formal training. The content builds on the foundational competence that is gained from completing the “F-1 Advising: Getting Started” e-Learning course, the “F-1 Beginners” Core Education Program Workshop, or formal on-the-job training.
Learning Outcomes
- Consider institutional interpretations and application of employment regulations.
- Advise students about eligibility and the long-term impact of different employment options.
- Perform administrative tasks to support students to engage in authorized practical training and employment.
- Stay informed of agency guidance impacting the application of employment regulations.
Special Bonus: Participants will receive access to the NAFSA Adviser's Manual 360 for the duration of the course.
Ready to start learning?
When you register, you will have 60 days to experience your content when it's convenient for you! Look for your access link in your registration receipt, on your MyNAFSA page, or by going directly to the learning portal.
For details on registering and accessing, review the FAQ page.
Build Your Competencies
NAFSA International Education Professional Competencies 2.0 outline the abilities, skills, and foundational knowledge necessary for successful international educators. Learn more about NAFSA Competencies 2.0.
This learning content targets the competency categories of Compliance Management and Recruitment, Enrollment, and Advising.
Course Information
This digital course is designed to provide you with asynchronous, self-paced learning where you will complete approximately three hours of interactive content. It is on-demand and available immediately after purchase. This course is divided into three (3) modules, and as a learner, you will have the exceptional opportunity to engage with our subject matter experts, known as NAFSA’s e-Learning Deans, that will be monitoring the discussion boards and will support you throughout the course. Our e-Learning Deans will also be able to address any situation you are currently facing, as well as provide insights to your peers.
- Duration of Access: 60 days from the date of registration.
- Time Commitment: 30-60 minutes per module.
- Level: Introductory.
- Course Type: On-Demand, self-guided.
Course Components
Module 1: General Advising on Employment
Module 2: CPT and Pre-completion OPT
Module 3: Post-Completion OPT and OPT Extensions
About NAFSA e-Learning Dean
Kara Kauffman is the International Services Coordinator at University of Baltimore, where she also serves as the PDSO/RO. She has worked in the field of international education for 12 years and is an active member of NAFSA. She has been a member of the NAFSA Trainers Corps since 2019. She has a bachelor’s degree from Edinboro University (now PennWest) and a master’s degree in College Student Personnel from Ohio University.