The Trump administration is preparing significant reforms to United States student visa regulations, with particular focus on post-graduation work opportunities for international students. A proposed rule drafted by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) could substantially modify the popular Student Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme that enables foreign graduates to gain valuable work experience in America after completing their studies.
What the Proposed OPT Changes Involve
Although the draft rule hasn't been formally published yet, documents obtained by Newsweek reveal its broad objectives. The Department of Homeland Security stated the proposed changes will better align practical training with program goals while providing clearer guidelines to the public. The modifications primarily aim to protect American workers from potential displacement, address emerging national security concerns, and strengthen oversight mechanisms for the Student and Exchange Visitor Program.
Currently, the OPT programme permits international students on F-1 visas to work in the United States for up to 12 months after graduation, with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) graduates eligible for an additional 24-month extension. In Fiscal Year 2024, approximately 110,000 international students participated in OPT, with projections indicating increased participation for 2025.
Diverging Perspectives on OPT Restrictions
Supporters of the proposed changes argue that restricting OPT could benefit American graduates competing for entry-level positions, particularly in technology and other STEM fields. They contend that international students sometimes accept lower compensation, potentially disadvantaging domestic workers.
However, immigration experts and higher education leaders express serious concerns. Miriam Feldblum, executive director of the Presidents' Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, told Newsweek that limiting OPT would be fundamentally short-sighted. She emphasized that the programme plays a crucial role in maintaining America's position as the premier destination for global talent.
Corporate immigration attorney Anne Walsh provided additional context, noting that foreign-born, U.S.-educated STEM graduates contribute disproportionately to patent filings, research breakthroughs, and technological development. She warned that restrictive policies might compel highly skilled graduates to pursue opportunities in countries with more welcoming immigration frameworks, potentially diminishing American innovation capacity and economic growth.
Broader Implications for US Competitiveness
The proposed OPT modifications occur against a backdrop of increasing scrutiny of international students, including previous visa revocations related to campus activism. More recently, policy discussions have centered on the programme's potential impact on the domestic labor market.
While framed as protective measures for American workers, experts caution that OPT restrictions could produce adverse economic consequences. The programme currently supports critical sectors including health care, cybersecurity, sustainable energy, and artificial intelligence - all fields experiencing significant talent shortages.
Although limiting OPT might create short-term advantages for some American graduates, the long-term effect could weaken U.S. competitiveness. Reduced access to international talent might slow innovation in specialized fields, ultimately compromising America's technological leadership globally.
The final rule is anticipated for publication by year-end or early 2026. As deliberations continue, educational institutions, employers, and policymakers will closely monitor how the administration balances domestic employment concerns against America's historical strength in attracting global talent.
