Proposed Bill Threatens Career Prospects for International Students
Washington, D.C. – A New Immigration Challenge
A recently introduced bill in the United States Congress has sent shockwaves through the international student community, particularly among Indian students. The legislation seeks to terminate the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, a work authorization initiative that allows international graduates to remain in the US for up to three years after completing their studies. If passed, the bill could disrupt the career trajectories of thousands of students, forcing many to leave the country immediately after graduation.
What is the OPT Program?
The OPT program is a critical pathway for international students, especially those in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, to gain practical work experience in the US. It provides a 12-month work authorization for all graduates, with an additional 24-month extension for STEM students. This program not only helps students build their resumes but also allows them to repay hefty student loans and transition to longer-term employment visas like the H-1B.
According to the Open Doors 2024 report, India emerged as the top country of origin for international students in the US during the 2023–2024 academic year, with 331,602 students—a 23% increase from the previous year. Of these, 97,556 students participated in the OPT program, reflecting a 41% rise.
Why is the Bill Concerning?
The proposed legislation comes amid a broader wave of anti-immigrant policies under the current administration, which has prioritized the “Buy American, Hire American” agenda. The bill aims to eliminate OPT entirely, citing the need to prioritize American workers. However, critics argue that the move disproportionately affects international students, particularly those from India, who rely on OPT to gain professional experience and secure H-1B visas.
For Indian students, OPT is more than just a work permit—it’s a lifeline. Without it, graduates would face immediate deportation unless they secure an H-1B visa, which is subject to a lottery system and strict annual caps. The uncertainty has already led to a rush among students to secure H-1B-eligible jobs, though success is far from guaranteed.
Impact on Indian Students
The potential termination of OPT could have far-reaching consequences for Indian students:
- Career Disruption: Students would lose the opportunity to gain US-based work experience, which is crucial for building competitive resumes.
- Financial Strain: Many students rely on US salaries to repay education loans, which often exceed $60,000 annually.
- Limited Opportunities: Without OPT, students would have to leave the US immediately after graduation, forcing them to seek opportunities in countries like Canada or Europe, where post-study work policies are more accommodating.
A student from Columbia University shared, “OPT is the only way I can gain experience in my field and repay my loans. Without it, my entire career plan is at risk.”
Broader Implications
The bill has also raised concerns among US universities, which fear a decline in international student enrollment. Indian students, who form a significant portion of the international student body, contribute billions of dollars to the US economy through tuition fees and living expenses. A reduction in their numbers could have a ripple effect on the higher education sector.
Additionally, the move could impact the US job market, particularly in STEM fields, where international students play a vital role in addressing skill shortages.
What’s Next?
While earlier attempts to revoke OPT have failed, the current political climate has heightened the likelihood of the bill’s passage. Immigration experts advise students to fast-track their transition to H-1B visas or explore opportunities in other countries. Universities have also begun issuing advisories, urging students to avoid international travel to prevent re-entry issues.
The bill’s fate remains uncertain, but its introduction has already created a climate of fear and uncertainty among international students.
