A bill proposed in the United States Congress has created a stir in the international student community – especially those on student visas. The bill seeks to eliminate the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, a key component of the postgraduate experience for international students pursuing science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) courses.
If passed, the bill could significantly change the career paths of over 300,000 Indian students currently studying in the US, many of whom rely on OPT to gain real-world work experience and ease long-term employment through the H-1B visa route.
What is OPT and why is it important?
OPT is a work authorization program available to international students on F-1 student visas. It allows graduates to work in the US for one year after graduation. For STEM graduates, this period can be extended by two additional years, provided they are employed by a certified US employer.
This extension is crucial – it gives students the opportunity to apply for H-1B visas, often backed by US and Indian tech companies. Without this buffer, thousands of students will face sudden repatriation.
A new bill, new fears
If the proposed law comes into force, OPT will be abruptly ended for all eligible students, leaving them with no chance to gain work experience or transition to another work visa. Immigration experts warn that this could lead to a mass exodus of international talent. Many students are now struggling to secure job offers that can help them convert to H-1B status or are looking to move to other countries with more student-friendly immigration policies.
According to the Open Doors 2024 report, Indian students made up the largest international student group in the US during the 2023-2024 academic year, with 331,602 students – a 23% increase over the previous year. Of these, approximately 97,556 enrolled in OPT, a staggering increase of 41%.
The sudden threat to their lawful work status has caused panic among F-1 and M-1 student visa holders, with many even cancelling their travel plans for fear of being denied re-entry.
Why panic?
International students invest heavily in their education in the US – both financially and emotionally. For many, this investment is based on the hope of working in the US for a few years after graduation to gain professional experience and repay student loans. Losing OPT not only closes the door to work experience but also the opportunity to earn a US-level salary.
Immigration lawyer Poorvi Chothani said if the bill passes, OPT could disappear overnight, leaving no legal way to stay in the country after graduation unless one has an H-1B visa.
Non-STEM graduates already face tight restrictions, eligible to work for only one year after completing their studies. If the bill becomes law, this limited window could also end for everyone.
What students can do now
International students on student visas are now being advised to:
- Fast-track H-1B applications if they are eligible for the visa lottery.
- Avoid non-essential travel, as re-entry may be denied.
- Explore global options, including countries with more lenient rules for post-study work, such as Canada, Australia or the UK.
- Consider taking up remote roles with U.S.-based companies while in your home country.
- Stay informed through legal counsel and university advisories to understand visa updates and backup plans.
Prestigious institutions have already begun informally advising international students to avoid travel during academic breaks, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Shift Towards Tighter Immigration Policies
This bill is part of a broader movement towards stricter immigration under political promises that include mass deportations and stricter visa criteria. Although similar attempts to repeal OPT have failed in the past, the current political climate and upcoming elections have made students and faculty increasingly concerned.
Experts believe the US is probably moving towards a model in line with countries like the UK, where students must return home immediately after graduation unless they get a work visa.
Final Thoughts
For international students on student visas, the future now seems more uncertain than ever. With the possibility of losing access to OPT, their dreams of working in the US may be dashed unless alternative pathways are found. As the debate about immigration intensifies, students should remain vigilant, informed, and prepared for change if necessary.
If you are an ambitious international student, it is more important than ever to weigh your options carefully and be prepared for a dynamic and potentially restrictive post-study environment in the United States.
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