The VISA Series (VCU International Student Achievement)
Fall 2026 Workshops
The VCU International Student Achievement (VISA) Series will consist of weekly, advisor-led workshops, focused on topics relevant to VCU’s F-1 students. All workshops are virtual this semester.
The CALENDAR of workshops for the Fall 2026 semester is as follows:
F-1 Employment
Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT)
We know that the training experience in your major gained through post-completion OPT can play a vital role in bringing to life the concepts learned in the classroom. We also know that applying for OPT and complying with OPT regulations can seem a bit daunting. These workshops are intended to help offer you clarity and confidence as you navigate the process.
This workshop is intended for students who are graduating at the end of the current semester.
Every Tuesday at 9:00 a.m.
August 25 – December 15, 2026*
*Except for November 3, 2026 (U.S. Election Day) and November 24, 2026 (U.S. Thanksgiving holiday)
Pre-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT)
Gaining hands-on professional experience prior to graduation can be vital for preparing students to enter/reenter the workforce. Pre-completion OPT authorization will permit you to engage in practical training in your field while simultaneously completing your coursework. This workshop is ideal for students with training opportunities that do not meet the academic requirements for CPT.
October 14, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. Register
Curricular Practical Training (CPT)
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is a great option for students whose program of study requires participation in an experiential learning activity like an internship or who wish to take an internship-type class to satisfy a degree requirement. This workshop will cover the regulatory framework for engaging in academically-aligned practical training, eligibility criteria, and the process for requesting CPT authorization.
August 26, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. Register
September 2, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. Register
October 15, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Register
November 4, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. Register
December 2, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Register
On-Campus Employment
Working on campus is a great way to gain some valuable experience to add to your resume, engage with the campus community, and earn a bit of extra money. F-1 students interested in applying for on-campus employment are invited to attend.
October 16, 2026 at 3:30 p.m. Register
Maintaining F-1 Status
The Basics: Maintaining Your F-1 Status
A key component to your success as an international student in the U.S. is understanding the F-1 regulations. In this workshop, we will provide a brief overview of the regulatory requirements for F-1 students and outline the processes for maintaining your SEVIS record and your F-1 status. If you were unable to attend International Student Orientation, make plans to attend one of these sessions.
August 27, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Register
October 21, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. Register
F-1 Travel
Traveling outside of the U.S. as an F-1 student requires a significant amount of pre-planning. This workshop will cover a number of travel-related topics, including the process for obtaining a travel signature, renewing an expired F-1 visa, and gathering the proper documentation to present upon reentry. Anyone looking to take a vacation or return home to visit friends and family is encouraged to attend.
November 19, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. Register
December 3, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. Register
Post-Graduation Planning for F-1 Students
Deciding what to do after graduation can be a challenge for any student. For F-1 students, this comes with the added responsibility of maintaining your status. Our Post-Graduation Planning workshop will outline the options available to students completing their program of study at the end of the semester, including getting a new I-20 to begin a new degree program, transferring out, training and employment, and more!
November 18, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. (noon) Register
December 1, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. Register
All virtual workshops will be delivered using the Zoom platform. To access your VCU Zoom account, please visit vcu.zoom.us and log in with your VCU credentials.
After you register, we recommend that you add your workshop details to the Gmail (Google) calendar associated with your student account. Instructions for importing Zoom meetings to your Gmail calendar can be found in the Zoom Support Center.