Beyond Borders: Thriving as an International Student at UA

• September 18th, 2025
• in Capstone International Services International Main

by Chinecherem Ezeihejafor | Higher Education Administration (PhD Student)

Arriving at The University of Alabama is an exciting milestone, but for international students, it can also bring unique challenges. From adjusting to a new academic system to navigating campus life, thriving at UA means more than just keeping up with coursework. It’s about building connections, prioritizing well-being, and creating your own Alabama story.

Finding Belonging

One of the most important steps in thriving as an international student is finding your place in the Crimson Tide community. Your perspective as an international student is a strength, so share it in class discussions, student organizations, and friendships. Belonging doesn’t mean choosing between your cultural identity and your UA home; it’s about embracing both.

Getting involved in multiple communities helps build a strong support network. Join the International Student Association, but also explore clubs, sports, or academic groups that align with your interests. And when opportunities come your way, either a football game, a study group, or even just coffee—say yes. Those small moments often lead to meaningful connections.

Taking Charge of Your Experience

Thriving at UA also means taking ownership of your journey: learn about campus resources before you need them, from the Writing Center to student services. Advocate for yourself by asking questions and seeking support when needed—professors and advisors want to help you succeed. And don’t forget to set healthy boundaries that balance your studies, social life, and personal needs.

Prioritizing Wellness

Adjusting to life at a new university can feel overwhelming at times. Homesickness, cultural differences, and visa stress are common, but you are not alone. UA’s Counseling Center offers support tailored for international students, and reaching out is a sign of strength. You can also connect with other international students to share how they are navigating immigration plans, processes, and policy changes, building both practical knowledge and a supportive community.

Wellness also means staying active and engaged. The Student Recreation Center offers fitness classes, sports, and activities that help students connect with one another. Many student organizations also plan recreational events for their members. Don’t overlook the value of taking time out with peers, whether that’s sharing a cultural meal, joining a group activity, or enjoying an occasional hangout when your schedule allows. These moments of connection can be just as important as academics in creating balance and fostering a sense of community. Alabama’s outdoors, from Lake Tuscaloosa to local parks, provides plenty of opportunities for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying nature. Together, these activities not only support your physical health but also help you feel grounded, connected, and at home during your time at UA.

Building Your Alabama Story

Graduate international students often juggle research, teaching, and coursework, making intentional self-care and community building especially important. Graduate organizations and faculty mentors can provide both support and guidance.

As you settle into life at UA, consider giving back, mentoring new students, volunteering during orientation events, or sharing your culture with the campus community. These contributions not only enrich your own journey but also strengthen the experience for future international students.

Moving Forward

Thriving as an international student at UA is not about leaving your culture behind; it’s about embracing it. It’s about integrating who you are with where you are, building resilience, and creating lasting connections. Every challenge you overcome and every friendship you build adds to the vibrant community that makes The University of Alabama stronger.

Your journey matters. Your well-being matters. And at UA, you have the support you need to succeed, not just academically, but personally.

Proposed Elimination of Duration-of-Status for F & J Visa Holders

• September 3rd, 2025
• in Capstone International Services

PROPOSED ELIMINATION OF DURATION-OF-STATUS FOR F & J VISA HOLDERS

On Thursday, August 28, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security published 90 FR 42070 a proposed rule to eliminate “duration of status.” Please note, this rule is not final and has not gone into effect and we do not recommend making decisions based solely on this proposed rule.

For more resources see: https://www.nafsa.org/dsproposal2025.

Below is a brief discussion of the rule making process and a high-level overview of the proposed rule:

Rule Making Process:

1. A proposed rule is published in the Federal Register and the public can comment (this is where we currently are). This period will end on September 29, 2025 for this rule.
2. DHS is required to review public comments and prepare a response to all substantive comments.
3. DHS sends either the same rule or the rule with changes to the OMB for review.
4. The OMB completes their review of the rule.
5. The final rule is published with an effective date.

Brief Overview of Proposed Rule

The new rule proposes to eliminate “duration of status” for individuals in F and J status. Currently, individuals in F and J statuses are admitted for “duration of status” which means they can remain in the United States if they are complying with their F or J regulations. There is not a fixed end date by which individuals in F or J status must depart the United States, rather this is tied to the individual’s Form I-20 or Form DS-2019 end-date.

The proposed rule would eliminate “duration of status” and replace it with a fixed end date of F or J status which is tied to their I-20 or DS-2019 end-date, not to exceed 4 years, plus a 30-day grace period. Individuals in F or J status would then need to file a formal extension of status request with USCIS in order to remain in the United States beyond their fixed end date.

Again, this is in the “Proposed Rule” stage. The public commentary period is open until September 29, 2025. All individuals can submit a comment regardless of immigration status, but please be aware that all submitted comments become public record. The final rule could have substantial changes or never take effect. This information is not law and is subject to change.

For the latest information on Regulatory Actions, please see the following resource: 

1. NAFSA: Association of International Educators – Executive and Regulatory Actions Page

Global Virtual Exchange Summit 2025

• June 6th, 2025
• in COIL

The Global Virtual Exchange Summit 2025 aims to provide a dynamic platform for thought-provoking discussions, innovative research, and collaborative solutions that address the evolving challenges and opportunities of leadership in the 21st century. By examining key themes that shape the future of education, industry, and global engagement, we aim to foster meaningful dialogue and actionable insights that will contribute to the development of future-ready graduates and responsible global citizens. The Summit will be conducted in a hybrid mode (online and offline in Hong Kong) (time zone: HKT) and will not be requiring registration fee.

This year’s Summit features five panels in English:

• Quality Intercultural Education for Future-Ready Graduates
• Digital Competencies for Future Leaders
• Global Citizenship in Interconnected World
• Virtual Exchange for Public Health Engagement and Sustainable Action
• Cross-Cultural Industry Engagement for Next Generation

Following the success of last year’s Summit with 682 participants from 48 countries and 83 speakers from 25 countries, your participation in this year’s Summit in July will be key to continuing our success.

Final Call for Abstract Submission: The deadline of abstract submission has been extended to 10 June, 2025 (HKT) (please click HERE).

Registration is FREE as the Summit is organized with the funding support of the Quality Enhancement Support Scheme (QESS) from the Education Bureau of HKSAR.

COIL Collaboration Matching Fair: Please click HERE.

For any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us at sce_vec@hkbu.edu.hk or sce_rmo@hkbu.edu.hk.

2025 Conference on Global Learning

• June 6th, 2025
• in COIL International Main

Join us November 12–14 for a fully virtual experience that brings together higher education leaders from around the world to explore how we can better prepare students to thrive in a globally connected world. Through global learning—experiences that foster intercultural understanding, connect classrooms to real-world challenges, and encourage engagement across local and international contexts—students gain the skills and perspectives they need to succeed in diverse careers and communities.

Why Should You Attend?

• Fresh Ideas, Proven Approaches: Hear from the leaders who are pioneering new strategies for faculty, students, and community and workforce partners.
• Hands-On Engagement: Dive into interactive workshops and thought-provoking panels, roundtables, and poster sessions that explore the critical questions shaping the future of global learning.
• Connections That Count: Build relationships with educators, changemakers, and thought leaders from campuses and communities around the world.

Reminder: Proposals are due TODAY, June 6
AAC&U is seeking proposals for conference sessions that empower faculty, staff, and administrators to weave global learning into the fabric of educational experiences—for every student, in every setting.

The conference tracks are listed below:

• Community Building for the Collective Good
• Elevating and Integrating COIL and Virtual Exchange
• Full Participation in Global Learning
• Global Engagement for Career and Future Readiness
• Leveraging Technology for Global Learning Innovation
• Making the Case for Global Learning
• Professional Development for Global Learning

Visit the conference website to register and submit your proposal!

Travel Bans Announced for 19 Countries

• June 5th, 2025
• in Capstone International Services

Travel Bans Announced for 19 Countries

Presidential Proclamation of June 4, 2025: Restricting The Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats establishes a “full” travel ban on 12 countries and a “partial” travel ban on 7 countries, effective 12:01 am eastern daylight time on June 9, 2025.

Read: The Proclamation on whitehouse.gov.

Resource: NAFSA: Association of International Educators

Effective date. The proclamation is effective at 12:01 am eastern daylight time on June 9, 2025.

Full ban countries – Twelve (12) countries are subject to a full ban that suspends “entry into the United States” of nationals of those countries as “immigrants and nonimmigrants.” The 12 “full ban” countries are: Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.

Partial ban countries – Seven (7) countries are subject to a partial ban that suspends “entry into the United States” as immigrants and of nonimmigrants “B-1, B‑2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas.” The 7 “partial ban” countries are:  Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.

Exceptions – The ban provisions are applicable only to nationals of the subject country who are outside the U.S. without a valid visa as of June 9, 2025.

Individuals who are inside the United States on June 9, 2025, or who are outside the United States on that date but have a visa that is valid as of June 9, 2025, would not be covered by the ban.

No revocation of visas issued before the proclamation effective date. The proclamation also states that “No immigrant or nonimmigrant visa issued before the applicable effective date of this proclamation shall be revoked pursuant to this proclamation.”

There are also a number of categorical exceptions, such as for lawful permanent residents, dual nationals who travel on passports issued by a non-ban country, asylees, refugees, diplomatic and international organization visas, and some other categories.

Case-by-case exceptions – Proclamation Sections 4(c) and 4(d) also provide for case-by-case exceptions by the Attorney General and Secretary of State.

Advising – International Students, Scholars, Faculty, and Staff from the above 19 impacted countries are strongly advised to consult with International Student & Scholar Services prior to any travel.  ISSS advising staff are available during drop-in advising 11 am – 3 pm, Monday through Thursday or by appointment.

ELI Adjunct Instructor Awarded Critical Language Scholarship

• May 29th, 2025
• in English Language Institute

Logann Shorter, a graduate student earning her Master of Art in teaching English to speakers of other languages from Dothan, was selected to study Korean in Busan, South Korea. Shorter earned her bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from Auburn University at Montgomery in 2023. Logann was recently appointed as an adjunct ESL instructor with UA’s English Language Institute.

The Critical Language Scholarship, or CLS program, is part of a U.S. State Department effort to expand the number of Americans studying and mastering critical foreign languages. CLS scholars gain critical language and cultural skills that enable them to contribute to U.S. economic competitiveness and national security.

Welbourne, Bryant. “4 UA Students Offered Critical Language Scholarships.” UA News Center, May 27, 2025.

Registration Requirement for Children and Minors – Effective April 11, 2025

• March 31st, 2025
• in Capstone International Services

New USCIS guidance published on February 25, 2025 and which will go into effect on April 11, 2025 will require young nonimmigrants who turn 14 while in the U.S. to “re-register” with USCIS within 30 days of their birthday, even if previously registered when entering the country. This may affect, for example, F-2, J-2, H-4 dependents and young F-1/J-1 students who entered before age 14. Most nonimmigrants who entered the U.S. at age 14+ are already automatically registered (as evidenced by their Form I-94) and DON’T need to re-register.

Read the USCIS page: Alien Registration Requirement (February 25, 2025, updated March 12, 2025); The USCIS guidance references statutes and regulations as well as Executive Order 14159 of January 20, 2025: Protecting The American People Against Invasion (see 90 FR 8443 (January 29, 2025)) as the legal basis for the agency action.

New requirement affects young people who turn 14 while staying in the United States:

• Those who turn 14 years old while in the U.S. must register again within 30 days of their 14th birthday; the USCIS Alien Registration Requirement page states that those who must register include: “Any alien, whether previously registered or not, who turns 14 years old in the United States, within 30 days after their 14th birthday.”
• This applies even for those who were properly registered when they first entered the country under age 14
• For example, this rule affects dependents with F-2, J-2, and H-4 status, as well as young students with F-1 and J-1 status (such as boarding school students) who entered the United States under age 14 and have remained in the U.S.; it also affects immigrants (green card holders) who acquired their lawful permanent residence under age 14 when they turn 14 years old

Regarding the 14-year-old requirement the USCIS Alien Registration Requirement page states: “This includes:

• “All aliens 14 years of age or older who were not registered and fingerprinted (if required) when applying for a visa to enter the United States and who remain in the United States for 30 days or longer. They must apply before the expiration of those 30 days;
• The parents or legal guardians of aliens less than 14 years of age: Parents or legal guardians must apply for the registration of aliens less than 14 years of age who have not been registered and remain in the United States for 30 days or longer, before the expiration of those 30 days; and
• Any alien, whether previously registered or not, who turns 14 years old in the United States, within 30 days after their 14th birthday.”

Individuals who have not be registered must also now register. In addition to the requirement for 14-year-olds to re-register, the USCIS Alien Registration Requirement page states: “Anyone who has not applied to the Department of State for a visa, been issued one of the documents designated as evidence of registration under 8 CFR 264.1(b), or has not submitted one of the forms designated at 8 CFR 264.1(a) and provided fingerprints (unless waived) is not registered. Aliens who have not registered include:

• Aliens present in the United States without inspection and admission or inspection and parole who have not otherwise registered (that is, aliens who crossed the border illegally);
• Canadian visitors who entered the United States at land ports of entry and were not issued evidence of registration; and
• Aliens who submitted one or more benefit requests to USCIS not listed in 8 CFR 264.1(a), including applications for deferred action or Temporary Protected Status who were not issued evidence of registration listed in 8 CFR 264.1(b).”

How to complete the re-registration. See the USCIS Alien Registration Requirement page for instructions on filing Form G-235R. Form G-325R must be filed online through a USCIS online account. It cannot be filed by mail or in person.

Where can I get advice on my or my family’s obligations to register or re-register? Individuals with questions about their and their family’s legal obligations to provide information to the U.S. government can contact an experienced Immigration Attorney or assistance through the Immigration Advocates Network.

Resources:

• NAFSA Page on “Re-Registration of Nonimmigrants Reaching Age 14″
• USCIS: Alien Registration Requirement

THIS WEEK! Chika Unigwe events!

• March 4th, 2025
• in International Main

The English Department is excited to continue their Spring 2025 Visiting Writers Series Tuesday, March 4^th and Wednesday, March 5^th with Nigerian-born novelist Chika Unigwe. They hope you will make every effort to attend her afternoon masterclass/lecture as well as her reading and Q&A the following evening. Faculty, staff and students are all invited.

Explore the World Through Education Abroad Opportunities

• February 13th, 2025
• in Education Abroad International Main

The University of Alabama not only offers countless enriching learning opportunities on campus but can also help students find empowering experiential learning endeavors around the globe.

Zachary Cole, a junior from Madison who is majoring in mathematics with a minor in actuarial science, had a strong desire to learn and travel the globe. So much so that his first trip abroad would be his first time on an airplane.

Cole worked closely with UA’s Education Abroad and External Scholarships and Fellowships offices to secure awards that have allowed him to achieve his goals of studying abroad. He offered some words of wisdom to those who are considering education abroad.

What sparked your interest in seeking study abroad scholarships?

My interest in study abroad awards stemmed from both a financial need and strong desire to experience learning in an international setting. I knew that studying abroad would provide invaluable academic and personal growth, but cost was a major factor. Discovering scholarships through Education Abroad and External Scholarships and Fellowships gave me the confidence to pursue these opportunities.

What was your first education abroad experience?

I traveled to Japan through the Gilman Scholarship, alongside a few other scholarships, through UA, which made the experience possible. During my time in Japan, I took courses both in religion and popular culture.

Through this, I had the chance to immerse myself in the culture, history and language. One of the highlights was visiting significant cultural sites such as Meiji Jingu Shrine, which deepened my understanding of Japan’s traditions.

What was it like having your first experience on an airplane be an international trip?

The experience was both exciting and stressful. Navigating massive airports like Atlanta and Haneda Airport in Tokyo without any prior experience was definitely a challenge, but in the end, it was completely worth it.

How has studying abroad made an impact on your life?

Studying abroad has significantly enhanced my time at UA by broadening my academic perspective, helping me develop a more global mindset and connecting me with so many amazing people. It also strengthened my adaptability, problem-solving skills and cross-cultural communication skills that will benefit me both personally and professionally.

Do you have any additional education abroad trips planned?

I have been selected for the Frederick Douglass and Daniel O’Connell Global Internship program, which will take me to Dublin, Ireland, for eight weeks. As a Douglass-O’Connell Global intern, I will complete academic coursework, immerse myself in my Irish work placement, participate in all program activities, and actively engage with instructors and peers throughout the experience.

How have UA’s Education Abroad and External Scholarships and Fellowships offices helped along the way?

I worked closely with both offices, which were incredibly helpful throughout the process. They guided me through applications, provided resources and ensured I had everything I needed for a successful experience.

What advice would you give to any student who may be considering studying abroad?

I would encourage them to take the leap. The experience is life-changing, and there are so many resources available to make it financially feasible.

Start researching early, apply for as many scholarships as possible and don’t hesitate to reach out to UA offices for guidance. It’s an opportunity that truly transforms your education and worldview.

Students interested in experiential learning opportunities abroad can contact the Education Abroad office or Office of External Scholarships and Fellowships to get started.

212(e) Skills List Updated

• December 9th, 2024
• in Capstone International Services

On December 9, 2024, the U.S. Department of State published an updated Exchange Visitors Skills List in the Federal Register.

The updated 2024 Skills List replaces the prior 2009 Skills List.

In developing the new Skills List, the Department of State used modern, data-driven criteria to assess which countries remain subject to the home residency requirement. Factors used to determine inclusion or exclusion from the Exchange Visitors Skills List include:

• Per Capita GDP
• Country Size
• Migration Trends

This Skills List change impacts J-1 and J-2 visa holders who may be subject to the 212(e) Two-Year Home Residency Requirement.

The Exchange Visitor Skills List identifies countries and fields of expertise deemed essential for a country’s development. Nationals of these countries who hold J-1 visas have historically been required to return home for at least two years after completing their programs.

The main change from the 2009 Skills List to the 2024 Skills List is that 37 countries which were previously included in the 2009 Exchange Visitors Skills List have been removed as of December 9, 2024.

A cross comparison table for the 2009 and 2024 Skills List Countries can be accessed here.  Please note that the table does not include the skills listed under each included country; reference the 2024 Skills List for specific skills included.

The list of countries which have been removed in the updated 2024 Exchange Visitors Skills list include:

• Albania
• Algeria
• Argentina
• Armenia
• Bahrain
• Bangladesh
• Bolivia
• Brazil
• Chile
• China
• Colombia
• Costa Rica
• Dominican Republic
• Gabon
• Georgia
• Guyana
• India
• Indonesia
• Kazakhstan
• Laos
• Malaysia
• Mauritius
• Montenegro
• Namibia
• Oman
• Paraguay
• Peru
• Romania
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Sri Lanka
• Thailand
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkey
• United Arab Emirates
• Uruguay

IMMEDIATE IMPACTS – WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?

J-1 and J-2 visa holders from the above list of removed countries will benefit significantly from this change:

• Starting December 9, 2024, the 212(e) two-year home residency requirement will no longer apply unless triggered by other factors, such as government funding or participation in medical training programs.
• Affected individuals will now be able to pursue other U.S. immigration options, such as H-1Bs or green cards, without the need for waivers.

The removal of the 212(e) requirement for those who were subject due to the prior EV Skills List has been removed retroactively.

Per the 12/09/2024 Revised Notice “Accordingly, J nonimmigrant exchange visitors who were subject to the two-year foreign residence requirement at the time of their admission or acquisition of J status based on designations in a previously published Skills List will no longer be subject to that requirement if their country is not designated in this revised list.”

Please note, those in J-1 or J-2 status whose country has been removed from the 2024 Exchange Visitors Skills may still be subject to the 212(e) 2-year home residency requirement if your program was government-funded or if you received medical education or training.