The introduction of a new bill in the United States Congress has set International Students in the US, especially those who are pursuing Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) degrees, on the edge because of the potential implications on their scholarships, their study plans and their immigration status. Committed in the legislation is to eliminate the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program — an important work authorization scheme that allows international graduates to stay in the United States for a maximum of three years after graduation in order to gain practical experience in their fields.
This move is going to have a severe impact on the future careers of thousands of Indians, who are the largest group of international students in the US. The OPT program is key to helping them move from academic life to the work world, and frequently, the wedge into an eventual permanent work visa, such as the H-1B. Without OPT, many students are not going to be able to stay in the U.S. after completing their two years of education and have obtained a job offer or professional opportunity, irrespective of it.
According to a recent report, India overtook China’s position as the leading source of international students in the United States for the 2023–2024 academic year. The number of Indian students on roll rose by 23 per cent to 331,602 from the previous year. Amongst these, around 97,556 students participated in the OPT program, with a huge 41% upsurge. These figures make it very clear how important the program has become for Indian students seeking higher education and affairs in the U.S.
Though attempts to dismantle OPT in past years have failed, this most recent bill marks a trend in the current U.S. administration towards anti-immigrant policy. If signed into law, the bill would interfere with individual career paths, but also the talent pipeline that aids U.S. industries, particularly in STEM fields that are in high demand.
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