In a shocking development that has left the Indian student community in the United States on edge, a new bill has been introduced in the US Congress seeking to end the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program — a move that could derail the career dreams of over 3 lakh Indian students currently studying in the US. The OPT program, widely regarded as a crucial stepping stone for international students pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) degrees, allows them to gain hands-on work experience in the US for up to three years after graduation. For many, it’s the only bridge to an H-1B work visa and a long-term career in the United States.
According to the Open Doors 2024 report, India has emerged as the leading country of origin for international students in the US, contributing 331,602 students during the 2023–2024 academic year — a staggering 23% rise compared to the previous year. Among them, over 97,556 Indian students participated in the OPT program, marking a sharp 41% increase. The program has become a lifeline for thousands of students from India, especially in fields like computer science, data analytics, AI/ML, biotechnology, and engineering. With this proposed ban, their professional future now hangs in the balance.
The bill comes amid growing anti-immigrant rhetoric and policy proposals, particularly from former US President Donald Trump’s campaign. Trump has already outlined his intent to enforce stricter visa regulations and mass deportations if re-elected, and the end of OPT seems to align with this vision. Although earlier attempts to revoke OPT have failed, the political environment in the US has become increasingly volatile, making this attempt feel more real and urgent for those affected.
Indian students on F-1 and M-1 visas are now in a state of panic. Many are urgently applying for roles in US companies that sponsor H-1B visas — a visa category typically supported by tech giants such as Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Infosys, and TCS. These companies have historically helped international graduates transition to long-term employment, but the number of H-1B visas is limited and the competition is intense. Without OPT, many students may be forced to return home without gaining any practical experience — a devastating outcome for those who have invested years of effort and lakhs of rupees in their education.
For Indian students currently in the US or planning to study there, time is of the essence. Experts are recommending immediate steps such as applying for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) if eligible, targeting job offers from companies that are open to sponsoring H-1B visas, and exploring alternate destinations like Canada, Germany, Australia, or the UK, which continue to offer friendlier post-study work options. Students are also advised to stay in close contact with their university’s international student support services and consult immigration experts to remain updated and legally protected.
The larger implications of this bill are global. Families in India who have invested heavily in US education are now questioning the return on investment. Indian IT firms might see a surge in returning talent — potentially triggering a reverse brain drain. More significantly, it adds strain to India–US relations, particularly in the field of education, talent mobility, and global innovation.
While the bill has sparked widespread concern, it’s important to note that there is also rising resistance. Leading US universities, major tech firms, and international rights groups are expected to push back against the proposed changes. The OPT program not only benefits students but also contributes significantly to the US economy by filling vital talent gaps in the technology and healthcare sectors.
In conclusion, the future of OPT is currently uncertain, but students must remain proactive, informed, and prepared for any outcome. This issue is evolving rapidly and could reshape how Indian students view overseas education in the years to come. For real-time updates on OPT visa news, F-1 regulations, H-1B changes, and immigration policy shifts, stay tuned. Your academic and professional journey might depend on it.
Stay tuned to ibizznews for further updates.
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