Trump Targets OPT – Uncertainty Looms for Thousands of Indian Students
Proposal to Scrap OPT Raises Concerns
In a move that has sparked widespread concern among international students, former U.S. President Donald Trump has proposed eliminating the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. This program allows foreign graduates from U.S. universities to work temporarily in their field of study.
Trump has backed this proposal with a bill that is reportedly being prepared for presentation in the U.S. Congress. If approved, the measure could severely affect over 300,000 Indian students currently studying or planning to study in the United States.
What is OPT?
The Optional Practical Training (OPT) program provides international students in the U.S. with the opportunity to work in their respective fields for up to three years after completing their academic programs. This work experience often serves as a pathway to securing an H-1B visa and long-term employment in the U.S.
The program has been particularly beneficial for Indian students, many of whom rely on OPT to gain valuable work experience and eventually transition to full-time roles within the same or related companies.
Consequences of a Potential Ban
If the OPT program is scrapped, international students will be forced to return to their home countries immediately after graduation. This could significantly impact their career prospects and financial stability.
Given the limited availability and high competition for H-1B visas, many students would lose the opportunity to remain employed in the U.S., thus reducing the incentive for international students to choose American universities for higher education.
Impact on U.S. Education and Workforce
Experts warn that eliminating OPT would harm not just students but also the U.S. education and economic systems. With fewer foreign students enrolling, universities stand to lose substantial revenue.
Furthermore, American companies—especially in the tech and research sectors—could struggle to find qualified professionals, as OPT serves as a major source of skilled labor. The annual H-1B visa quota is insufficient to meet the industry’s workforce needs, making OPT a crucial component of the current employment ecosystem.