By The Sampadak Express
A new bill introduced in the United States Congress has raised alarm among international students, particularly those enrolled in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs. The proposed legislation seeks to end the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, a work authorization scheme that allows international students to stay in the US for up to three years after graduation to gain professional experience.
The potential termination of OPT poses a significant threat to the career prospects of thousands of Indian students in the US, many of whom rely on the program to build their careers and transition to longer-term employment visas.
According to the Open Doors 2024 report, India remains the largest source of international students in the US for the 2023–2024 academic year, with 331,602 Indian students, a 23% increase from the previous year. Of these, 97,556 participated in OPT, marking a 41% increase in participation.
Despite previous unsuccessful attempts to revoke OPT, this bill emerges amid a broader trend of anti-immigrant policies under the current US administration. With mass deportations and stricter visa regulations forming part of Donald Trump’s campaign promises, current F-1 and M-1 visa holders face growing uncertainty. Many students are now urgently seeking job opportunities to transition to H-1B visas, which are often sponsored by major tech companies in the US and India.
Experts Weigh in on OPT’s Future
Experts have expressed concern over the future of OPT for international students. Poorvi Chothani, founder of immigration law firm LawQuest, explained that OPT allows students to work in the US for up to one year after graduation, with a possible two-year extension for STEM graduates working with qualified US employers.“
If the bill passes, OPT could end abruptly, and students might not have an option to transition to another work visa,” Chothani warned. “They may be forced to leave the US immediately.”
Chothani advised students to fast-track their transition to an H-1B visa, if selected in the lottery, or to explore opportunities in other countries. She also noted that prospective international students may face a system similar to the UK, which requires students to return home after completing their studies.
A major concern raised by experts is the financial impact. Without OPT, students could miss out on the opportunity to earn US-level salaries, which are crucial for repaying substantial student loans.
Travel Uncertainty
In light of the uncertain future, several Indian students have cancelled their summer travel plans out of fear they may not be allowed to re-enter the US. Prestigious universities such as Cornell, Columbia, and Yale have reportedly advised international students to avoid traveling home during the break, given the current policy uncertainty.
As the bill continues to stir controversy, thousands of Indian students in the US are left grappling with the potential consequences, while many scramble to secure their future in an increasingly unpredictable immigration landscape.
