F-1 students, a lot is changing right now. Immigration attorney here. Ask me anything.
Hi r/InternationalStudents. I'm Amanda Emerson, an immigration attorney at Manifest Law. I'll be answering your questions today from 12PM to 4PM EST.
The immigration landscape for F-1 students in the US is shifting fast right now. OPT and STEM OPT are under serious scrutiny, the job market is brutal for international grads, the May 21 AOS memo has created real confusion about green card options, and a lot of people are running out of time on their work authorization with no clear next step.
Ask me anything about:
- OPT and STEM OPT timelines, delays, and what happens if yours expires before you find a job
- What the May 21 AOS policy change means for F-1 students
- H-1B, what to do if you weren't selected in the lottery
- CPT authorization and compliance questions
- Change of status options if your OPT runs out
- Long-term pathways beyond H-1B including O-1 and EB-2 NIW
- F-1 visa interview prep and re-entry concerns
- What happens to your status if you get laid off
Drop your questions below, I'll be answering live during the window above and checking back throughout the day.
(Please note: Any information shared here is for general educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Your situation may require fact-specific guidance. For personalized legal advice, please consult an immigration attorney directly.)
Posted May 28, 2026, 10:41 AM UTC