US Tech Workers have urged Donald Trump to abolish the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, claiming it is misused as a gateway to H-1B visas. They argue the program creates unfair competition for local graduates and benefits universities financially, while international students, particularly from India and China, heavily rely on it for career advancement.
The OPT Program Under Fire
The Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows international students in the US to gain work experience for up to 12 months, with STEM graduates eligible for a 24-month extension. While it aims to foster skill development, critics claim it serves as a long-term immigration pathway, creating challenges for American graduates in securing jobs.
Concerns Raised by US Tech Workers
The US Tech Workers group has voiced strong opposition to the OPT program, labeling it a “guest worker scheme disguised as an internship.” They allege universities exploit the program to attract international students, particularly from India and China, as a revenue source rather than focusing on education.
The group emphasized that OPT was initially designed as a short-term opportunity for students to gain work experience and return to their home countries. However, its extended duration and perceived misuse have led to significant criticism from various quarters.
Impact on Indian Students
Indian students represent the largest international community in the US and heavily depend on OPT for professional growth and as a stepping stone to H-1B visas. The program’s potential cancellation could impact their career prospects and discourage future enrollments in American universities.
Legal Challenges and Future Outlook
In 2023, the Washington Alliance of Technology Workers (WashTech) challenged the OPT program in court, citing disadvantages for American workers. However, a lower court upheld the program’s validity, allowing it to continue for now.
If scrapped, the US could lose its appeal as a study-abroad destination for Indian students, especially those pursuing STEM degrees, who rely on OPT for post-graduation employment opportunities. The debate underscores a broader conflict between prioritizing domestic job markets and fostering international talent in the US.
