DHS to propose overhaul of OPT program for international students

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security is preparing a proposed rule that is expected to significantly change the Optional Practical Training program. The OPT program allows international students to work in the United States temporarily after completing their academic studies.

The proposed rule, listed on the regulatory agenda under the title, “Practical Training,” is expected to be published by the end of this year or in early 2026.

According to DHS, the purpose of the proposed rule would be to “better align practical training to the goals and objectives of the program.” The proposed rule is expected to amend existing regulations to, “address fraud and national security concerns, protect U.S. workers from being displaced by foreign nationals, and enhance the Student and Exchange Visitor Program’s capacity to oversee the program.”

Importance of OPT

The OPT program is an important bridge between academic study and professional employment for international students in the United States. It allows eligible F-1 students to work for up to 12 months in a position directly related to their field of study. Students who complete a qualifying degree in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics), may apply for an additional 24-month extension, for a total of up to three years of authorized employment.

According to the Institute of International Education, as of fall 2024 there were more than 1.1 million international students studying in the United States. Of those, 242,782 participated in OPT to gain practical work experience after completing their academic studies.

Implications of Proposed Rule for students and employers

OPT and STEM OPT are important for U.S. employers seeking to hire global talent, particularly for early-career roles in fields such as technology, health care, research, and engineering. Many OPT employees later transition to H-1B visas or other employment-based visas for long-term employment. Restrictions on OPT could significantly reduce the number of eligible candidates in these fields.

The Trump Administration has proposed other actions that could have an impact on international students. These include the following:

• A proposed rule to replace F-1 nonimmigrant “duration of status” with a fixed admission period.
• A proposed overhaul of the H-1B cap selection process to prioritize higher-wage positions, which could disadvantage international students seeking entry-level positions in the United States.

These recent proposals represent an effort by DHS to increase oversight of international students and restrict their pathways to employment in the United States. Publication of the proposed rule is likely to be closely watched by students, universities and employers.