A proposed bill in the US Congress has sparked concern among thousands of Indian students studying in America. The bill aims to eliminate the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows international students to stay and work in the US after graduation.
What is OPT?
The OPT program enables international students, particularly those in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, to gain work experience in the US for up to three years after completing their studies. This program is important for students to build careers, consolidate student loans, and transition to long-term work visas like the H-1B.
Over 300,000 Indian students are currently enrolled in American universities, and many are worried about their future prospects. If the bill passes, these students would be forced to leave the US immediately after graduation unless they secure an H-1B visa, which is highly competitive and subject to a lottery system.
The bill is part of a larger trend of anti-immigrant measures, which has raised concerns among international students. Experts believe that eliminating OPT would damage the US reputation as a top destination for higher studies, as it not only provides students with work experience but also boosts innovation and eases talent deficits in critical industries.
Consequences
If the bill becomes law, Indian students may face the following consequences:
- Immediate Departure: Students would have to leave the US immediately after graduation unless they secure an H-1B visa.
- Limited Job Opportunities: Students may struggle to find job opportunities that can transition them to an H-1B visa.
- Financial Burden: Students may face financial difficulties due to the loss of work experience and the need to repay student loans.
The bill is currently a proposal, and previous efforts to eliminate OPT have been unsuccessful. However, increasing political backing for tough immigration legislation has raised concerns among students. Many are now exploring alternative options, such as studying in countries like Canada and Germany, which offer more stable post-study work prospects.
The proposed bill would impact students pursuing STEM fields, including:
- Engineering: Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, and other engineering disciplines.
- Computer Science: Students pursuing careers in software development, programming, and data science.
- Data Science: Students interested in data analysis, business analytics, and related fields.
- Business and Finance: Students pursuing careers in business, finance, and management.
The proposed bill has sparked uncertainty and concern among Indian students studying in the US. As the situation unfolds, students are anxiously waiting for a resolution that will determine their future prospects in the country.
