On October 8, 2026, DHS issued a proposed regulation that would require U.S. universities to pay a $70,000 fee to recommend an F-1 student for an initial period of Optional Practical Training (OPT) and a $30,000 fee for each subsequent OPT recommendation.
The International Center (IC) is currently hiring Summer Orientation Peer Advisors (SOPA) to support new international students who will begin their studies at the University of Michigan (U-M) - Ann Arbor the Fall 2026 semester.
Through this position, you can expect to improve your communication skills, gain leadership experience, and assist new international students as they adjust to life in Ann Arbor. You may even make some new friends along the way!
Laure Bordas-Isner the International Student and Scholar Advisor received the David D. Horner Award at the 2026 Michigan Association of International Educators (MAIE)) conference.
The University of Michigan International Center is hosting an in-person Pre-Departure Orientations (PDO) for new students and parents in Tokyo, Japan! The PDO events will be Saturday, June 6, and a collaborative event with the Pan-Asia Alumni Reunion. Student Leaders are expected to be available from 8:00am-12:00pm.
The International Center would like to express our concern for those who have been impacted by the recent events in the Middle East, or are facing uncertainty as a result of them, and remind the U-M international community of the following support resources:
Spring Break is approaching, and the International Center wishes you an enjoyable and relaxing break! Since you may have planned either international or domestic travel during the break, here are some considerations to keep in mind.
Please remember that there are always some risks to international travel, since admission or re-admission to the U.S. is at the discretion of the Port of Entry officials.
U-M recently sent an Important Reminder Regarding Immigration Enforcement and Campus Access to all students, faculty and staff.
The International Center also encourages our international community at U-M to be aware that participating in protest-related activities, as well as certain conduct or expression, may have potential immigration implications, particularly in view of increased scrutiny by immigration and consular authorities.