International Education Week 2026 - Office of International Programs and Services

Join us in celebrating International Education Week (IEW), a special opportunity to honor the diversity, global connections, and cultural richness of our campus community.

Throughout the week, students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members are invited to participate in a variety of engaging events and activities that encourage cultural exchange, meaningful conversations, and global learning.

Connect with international alumni, explore the importance of correctly pronouncing names across cultures, learn about the challenges and opportunities facing international students, and experience flavors from around the world. Celebrate community and gratitude during our Thanksgiving gathering, and join thought-provoking discussions about artificial intelligence, higher education, and global perspectives on privacy.

Whether you're looking to learn something new, connect with others, or celebrate the cultures that make Mason a global community, International Education Week 2026 offers something for everyone!

International Education Week is an initiative of the US Department of State. More information here: International Education Week

See our event lineup below for more information on International Education Week 2026:

Monday, November 16, 2026

International Student and Alumni Career Networking Event
Monday, November 16, 2026
Johnson Center Bistro
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Registration Link: go.gmu.edu/IEWALUMNI26

Gain insights from international alumni as they share their career journeys and post-graduation experiences in the U.S. and sharpen your networking skills along the way!

Right, Wrong, or Different: AI In Higher Education
Monday, November 16, 2026
Merten Hall 1201
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Registration Link:go.gmu.edu/IEWRWD

Who owns your data? How do norms around privacy differ across societies? And what ethical dilemmas emerge when A.I. systems use our prompts and personal information to generate insights?

Tuesday, November 17, 2026

Dowd & Company PC Immigration Workshop
Tuesday, November 17, 2026
VIRTUAL EVENT
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Registration Link: go.gmu.edu/IMMIGRATIONWORKSHOP

This webinar is hosted by the Office of International Programs and Services and Debra J.C. Dowd, an experienced immigration attorney from Dowd & Company PC.
Debra will offer a comprehensive presentation on post-graduation immigration issues including OPT, H-1B, other employment-based visas, and the green card process. Debra and the Office of International Programs and Services F-1 Team will be ready to answer your questions related to the presentation during the webinar's Q&A portion.

International Student Thanksgiving Luncheon
Tuesday, November 17, 2026
JC George’s
12:00 PM – 2:00 PM 
Registration Link: go.gmu.edu/iewthanksgiving

Join us for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner for lunch and connect with fellow international students in a warm, welcoming atmosphere! Hosted by the Offices of Student Success Coaching and International Programs and Services. 

Current Events in US Immigration
Tuesday, November 17, 2026
VIRTUAL EVENT
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM 
Registration Link: go.gmu.edu/iewthanksgiving

Experienced attorney, Debra Dowd from Dowd & Company PC will present on recent immigration policy changes and proposals to include the status of the Fixed Admission Policy for F-1 and J-1 visa holders, changes in CPT guidance, and other recent proposals that may impact F-1 OPT and H-1B Visas. There will be plenty of time for questions during the webinar.

Wednesday, November 18, 2026

F-1 Employment In A Changing Policy Landscape
Wednesday, November 18, 2026
VIRTUAL
10:30AM - 12:00 PM
Registration Link: go.gmu.edu/iewemployment

As winter approaches, does your mind wander to adventures abroad?
What do recent immigration developments mean for international students—and the faculty and staff who support them? Join OIPS for a timely discussion of CPT changes and ongoing litigation, proposed OPT fees, and longer OPT and STEM OPT processing waits. Learn what is changing, what remains uncertain, and how departments can help students plan with confidence while navigating internship, research, and employment opportunities.

International Students Professional Headshots
Wednesday, November 18, 2026
SUB I 3B
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Registration Link:go.gmu.edu/iewheadshots

Get ready to put your best face forward! As part of International Education Week 2026, the Office of International Programs and Services (OIPS) invites international students to take advantage of a FREE professional headshot opportunity!

Whether you're updating your LinkedIn profile, preparing for job or internship applications, or building your professional portfolio, this is a great opportunity to get a professional photo taken.

Friday, November 20, 2026

Supporting F-1 Students: Immigration Q&A for Faculty and Staff
Friday, November 20, 2026
VIRTUAL EVENT
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Registration Link: go.gmu.edu/iewqanda

Do you have questions about F-1 student visa regulations or the challenges international students face in today’s evolving immigration landscape? Join us for an interactive session designed to help faculty and staff better understand F-1 student matters and how to support students. While the session will include a brief overview, the focus will be on your questions and the issues you encounter when working with international students.
Please submit your questions in advance here byFriday, November 13, 2026. Your input will help us identify the topics most important to you.

International Education Week | November 16–20, 2026