F-1 and OPT Survival Guide
F-1 and OPT Survival Guide: The duration of status rule, the August SEVP CPT guidance, the OPT fee proposal, and OPT, STEM OPT and cap-gap timelines
With Steven Brown, Partner at Reddy Neumann Brown PC
The rules surrounding F-1 student status and employment authorization are evolving quickly, and small mistakes can have significant consequences for international students and graduates.
Join Steven Brown, Partner at Reddy Neumann Brown PC, for a practical session covering key developments affecting F-1 students, OPT and STEM OPT holders, and international graduates planning their next immigration step.
What We'll Cover
The Duration of Status Rule - What the rule means for F-1 students and how it may affect maintaining status.
August SEVP CPT Guidance - What students should know about recent guidance and how CPT can affect their immigration status.
The Proposed OPT Fee Changes - What has been proposed and what students and graduates should be watching.
OPT & STEM OPT Timelines - Important considerations around employment authorization, extensions, and maintaining work authorization.
Cap-Gap Timelines - How the cap-gap period works and what H-1B applicants should understand while transitioning from F-1/OPT.
Planning Your Next Step - Practical considerations for students and graduates preparing for the H-1B process or other immigration options.
About the Speaker
Steven Brown is a Partner at Reddy Neumann Brown PC in Houston, where he has practiced business immigration law for nearly a decade. His work includes RFE responses, appeals of USCIS denials, and federal litigation involving delayed immigration cases, including EAD delays that can leave workers without employment authorization. Steven is known for breaking down complex immigration and agency developments into clear, practical guidance.
Who Should Attend?
This session is especially relevant for:
F-1 students currently studying in the U.S.
Students preparing for or currently on OPT
STEM OPT holders
Recent graduates preparing for the H-1B lottery
International students concerned about maintaining status
Professionals waiting for H-1B-related outcomes
Anyone helping international students navigate their immigration options
Event Details
📅 Thursday, October 15, 2026
🕒 10:00 AM PT
Have a question for Steven? Submit your question when you register. Selected questions from attendees will be shared with Steven ahead of the session.
Disclaimer: This session is intended for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules and policies can change, and individual circumstances vary. For advice regarding your specific situation, please consult a qualified immigration attorney.