Lecturing in China

I have heard that the new policies implemented in October have made the F harder to get. Talking with an agency, they said they had a recent case for an F where the applicant only got 30 days. I expect to be lecturing for a summer course for more than 60 days, closer to 90 days. Is there a way to fill out the application that will help my case for a slightly longer visa? I have an invitation letter from the Chinese office of the program, but the company itself is American. Should I put my major purpose of visit as "tourism" or "non-business visit" on my v.2013 app? How do they know that I want an F and not an L or M?

I also meant to ask that according to the agency I talked with, the NY consulate, at least, requires in-person fingerprints for the F. I'm in Vermont, and hoping not have to travel to NY to apply, especially with little guarantee that I get the correct visa in the first place. What do you think before I risk time and money?