A proposed rule from the US Department of Homeland Security under the upcoming Trump administration is expected to either end or severely limit the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program for international students.
OPT currently allows foreign students in the US to work in their field of study for up to 12 months, either before or after completing their degree.
Each year, roughly 250,000 students benefit from OPT and its STEM extension, which grants an additional 24 months of work authorization in science, technology, engineering, or math disciplines.
According to Forbes, the proposed immigration rule — already listed on the federal regulatory agenda — is anticipated to be introduced by the end of this year or in early 2026.
This move follows a series of recent immigration measures targeting foreign students and H-1B visa holders.
In September, administration officials also proposed changes to the H-1B selection process to prioritize senior-level professionals over recent international graduates.
