- USCIS Director Joseph Edlow has publicly stated his intent to remove post-graduation employment authorisation for F-1 students completely.
- Current OPT provides 12 months of work authorisation, with STEM graduates eligible for an additional 24-month extension totalling 36 months.
- Recent H-1B visa rule changes favour senior-level candidates over recent graduates, further limiting post-graduation pathways for students.
The Optional Practical Training programme, which has allowed international students to work in the USA after graduation for decades, faces potential elimination or severe restrictions in 2026. A proposed rule on the Department of Homeland Security regulatory agenda could end post-graduation work opportunities entirely, with administration officials openly stating their intent to remove employment authorisation for F-1 students beyond their time in school.
In this blog, we will explore the proposed regulatory changes, current OPT rules, and what these developments mean for international students planning their academic journey in America.
New Proposed Rule to End or Restrict OPT?
The regulatory threat to Optional Practical Training represents the most significant policy shift for international students in decades. A rule listed on the DHS regulatory agenda could appear before the end of 2025 or in the first half of 2026, fundamentally altering post-graduation opportunities.
USCIS Director Joseph Edlow made clear his intent during confirmation hearings, stating he wants to “remove the ability for employment authorisations for F-1 students beyond the time that they are in school.” This would effectively eliminate post-completion OPT timeline and STEM OPT, forcing students to leave America immediately after finishing their degrees.
Two scenarios emerge:
- Complete elimination of OPT from regulations
- Preservation with severe new restrictions including mandatory employer burdens, enhanced vetting procedures, and administrative complexity that could make the programme functionally unusable.
Additional Proposed Changes Affecting F-1 Students
Beyond OPT restrictions, the administration has proposed replacing the current “duration of status” policy with fixed admission periods.
- This change could make it difficult for students to complete programmes lasting more than four years and create barriers to transitioning into Optional Practical Training.
- Students completing their studies at the end of fixed terms may face denied extension requests to pursue OPT, effectively blocking access to work experience even if the programme survives.
- Another proposed rule changes the H-1B selection process to favour senior-level candidates over recent international students, further limiting post-graduation pathways.
These combined changes could make America a far less attractive destination for international talent.
STEM OPT Extension Under Current Regulations
STEM graduates currently enjoy extended opportunities through a 24-month extension beyond standard OPT. This extension faces particular scrutiny from policymakers as it was designed to improve international students’ chances in the H-1B lottery.
Requirements include employer participation in E-Verify, submission of a formal training plan (Form I-983), and potential USCIS site visits to verify compliance. The programme covers degrees in computer science, engineering disciplines, mathematics, biological sciences, and physical sciences.
Unemployment Limits and Work Restrictions
Current regulations allow 90 days of unemployment during standard 12-month OPT, with an additional 60 days permitted during STEM OPT extension. All employment must relate directly to your degree field, and you must report changes to your school within 10 days.
Volunteer positions count as employment if they provide at least 20 hours of practical training weekly. Exceeding unemployment limits results in losing work authorisation, a risk that could become more severe under proposed enhanced vetting procedures.
Alternative Pathways if OPT Ends
Should OPT face elimination, Curricular Practical Training (CPT) could become the only remaining option for F-1 students seeking work experience during their studies. CPT training allows work as part of your curriculum but offers less flexibility than post-graduation OPT.
H-1B visa applications require employer sponsorship but recent rule changes favour senior-level candidates over recent graduates. J-1 visa programmes offer training opportunities through academic sponsors.
What Students Should Do Now
The uncertain regulatory environment demands proactive planning and flexibility. Monitor official DHS and USCIS websites weekly for announcements, as new rules could appear with limited notice.
- Start networking with potential employers immediately and explore CPT opportunities during your studies.
- Maintain close contact with your university’s international student office for real-time policy updates.
- Build international career networks and maintain connections in your home country as backup options.
- Consider programmes in other countries that offer post-graduation work rights, such as Canada, Australia, or the United Kingdom, which provide clearer pathways for international students.
Key Takeaways
The proposed elimination or restriction of Optional Practical Training represents a critical inflection point for international students considering American universities. Current OPT regulations remain in effect, but the proposed rule could appear at any time in early 2026, potentially ending decades of post-graduation work opportunities. Administration officials have made their intentions clear, and students must prepare for a dramatically different landscape.
Stay informed through official channels, work closely with your school’s international student office, and develop flexible career plans that can adapt to whatever regulatory changes emerge. Pursuing higher education in the USA still remains a strategic pathway for Indian students to build a global career.
At AdmitX, our expert counsellors have successfully guided thousands of Indian students to top US universities, providing comprehensive support, including:
- University Selection Guidance
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FAQs
Can F-1 visa holders work whilst studying in America?
Yes, F-1 students may work on campus for 20 hours weekly during term time and 40 hours during academic breaks.
How long can Indian students work in the USA after graduation on OPT?
Indian students receive 12 months of standard OPT, whilst STEM graduates qualify for 36 months of total work authorisation.
How many years is the H-1B visa valid initially?
The H-1B visa grants three years initially, extendable to six years total, with further extensions available during Green Card processing.
When did Trump increase H-1B visa fees to $100,000 and what is the exact amount in Indian Rupees?
President Trump imposed a $100,000 (₹88.7 lakh) one-time fee for new H-1B petitions on 19th September 2025, effective from 21st September 2025.
How can I prove my academic readiness for studying in the USA?
Present your GPA, test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, GRE, GMAT), academic projects, and relevant work experience that meet or exceed your university’s requirements.
How do I prepare to discuss my university choice in an F-1 visa interview?
Mention specific reasons including faculty expertise, research facilities, programme rankings, internship opportunities, and location-related industry exposure that demonstrate thorough research.
What are some popular one-year STEM fields for 2026?
Computer Science, Data/AI, Mechanical/Civil/Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry/Biology, Geology, Mathematics/Statistics, Chemistry/Physics, Food Science, Pharmacy, and Zoology.
Which top universities offer one-year STEM options?
MIT, Stanford, Harvard, Caltech, UC Berkeley, Princeton, Carnegie Mellon, UT Austin, Penn State, and Purdue, across selected STEM disciplines.
What is OPT and how does it benefit STEM graduates?
OPT is work authorisation for F‑1 students in roles related to their major: 12 months standard + 24-month STEM extension (total up to 36 months), strengthening H‑1B chances.
What are the key eligibility points for STEM OPT?
Valid F‑1 and post‑completion OPT, qualifying STEM CIP degree (current or eligible prior), E‑Verify employer, paid ≥20 hours/week, Form I‑983 training plan, timely filing before OPT EAD expiry, and required 6‑month validations/annual evaluations.
If you are an aspirant looking to study at your dream university, book an appointment with AdmitX today and start your applications early to avail yourself of all the benefits.
