New Immigration Rule May Significantly Impact Student Practical Training Programs

International students and recent graduates working in the United States under Optional Practical Training (OPT) may face significant changes as the Trump administration prepares to introduce a new rule that could restrict or eliminate this popular program.

What is OPT?

Optional Practical Training allows international students on F-1 visas to work in the United States for up to 12 months in their field of study after graduation. Students in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) can apply for an additional 24-month extension, giving them up to three years of work authorization. Currently, approximately 250,000 students work in the U.S. under OPT or STEM OPT annually.

The proposed changes

According to the Department of Homeland Security’s regulatory agenda, a new rule titled “Practical Training” is expected to be published before the end of 2025 or in early 2026. While the specific details remain unclear, the DHS has indicated the proposed rule will:

  • Better align practical training with the program’s original goals and objectives
  • Address fraud and national security concerns
  • Protect U.S. workers from displacement by foreign nationals
  • Enhance oversight capacity for the Student and Exchange Visitor Program

The Trump administration’s position on OPT has been clear. During Senate confirmation hearings in May 2025, a key administration official explicitly stated the goal of ending the OPT program entirely.

Current context for international students

This proposed rule comes amid several other immigration policy changes affecting international students:

Duration of status changes: In August 2025, DHS proposed replacing the current “duration of status” system with fixed admission periods not exceeding four years, potentially making it harder for students to complete longer degree programs.

H-1B selection changes: A September 2025 proposal would modify the H-1B selection process to favor senior-level applicants over recent graduates, making the transition from student to work visa more difficult.

Enhanced vetting: International students must now provide access to public social media accounts during immigration processing, and visa renewals have reportedly been delayed for students involved in campus activism.

Impact on international students

OPT serves as a critical bridge for international students transitioning from academic to employment-based immigration status. Working under STEM OPT for three years provides multiple opportunities to enter the H-1B visa lottery. The program also offers interim status for recent graduates whose employers are sponsoring them for permanent residency.

The potential elimination or significant restriction of OPT could:

  • Limit career opportunities for international graduates
  • Reduce the attractiveness of U.S. higher education
  • Impact U.S. employers who rely on this talent pipeline
  • Eliminate the bridge period that helps students transition to H-1B or permanent resident status

What students should do now

While OPT remains available and unchanged at present, international students should:

  1. Apply strategically: If eligible for OPT, consider applying sooner rather than later
  2. Maintain compliance: Ensure all employment is properly reported and in your field of study
  3. Plan ahead: Work with an immigration attorney to develop contingency plans
  4. Stay informed: Monitor updates from DHS and USCIS regarding the proposed rule
  5. Document carefully: Keep thorough records of all employment and immigration-related activities

The road ahead

As a proposed rule, the public will have an opportunity to comment before any changes become final. Higher education institutions, advocacy organizations, and affected individuals are expected to submit comments opposing restrictions on OPT.