A proposed bill in the United States Congress could eliminate the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, a major pathway that allows international students to work in the country after graduation. The bill has caused widespread concern, especially among Indian students pursuing STEM degrees who depend on OPT to gain professional experience and transition to work visas.
Indian Students Most Affected
India has become the top source of international students in the US, with 331,602 students enrolled during the 2023–2024 academic year. Of these, nearly 97,556 participated in the OPT program, reflecting a 41 percent rise. The bill, if passed, could disrupt career plans and create legal uncertainty for these students.
Fear and Urgency Among Visa Holders
With rising anti-immigrant rhetoric and tighter visa controls under the current political landscape, students are now racing to secure H-1B visa sponsorships. Immigration lawyer Poorvi Chothani explained that without OPT, students may need to leave the country immediately after graduation, cutting short their professional journey in the US and impacting their ability to repay student loans.
Cancelled Travel and Institutional Warnings
Fearing visa complications, many Indian students have cancelled summer travel plans. Reports suggest that prestigious universities like Cornell and Columbia have unofficially warned overseas students against leaving the US during the break to avoid re-entry issues.
What Lies Ahead
While previous attempts to revoke OPT have failed, this bill is part of a broader shift toward stricter immigration measures. Students may need to consider alternatives such as H-1B visa lotteries or explore study and work opportunities in other countries with more stable post-study options.
