Opt: ‘A huge blow to Indian students’: DHS letter shows U.S. reviewing OPT work rules, STEM likely to be most affected

A January 9, 2026 letter from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) shows that the government is officially re-evaluating the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, a post-graduation job benefit used by international students on F-1 visas, including a large number from India. This review may affect the length of OPT and whether the program continues to serve U.S. labor, tax, and national security interests.The OPT program allows students holding an F-1 student visa to work in the United States for up to 12 months after graduation. Graduates in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields are eligible for an additional 24 months of practical training extension. This is one of the main ways for international students to gain work experience after completing their degree.secretary of homeland security Kristi Noem In a letter to Senator Eric Schmidt, the department confirmed that the department is reviewing whether the current OPT framework “appropriately serves U.S. labor market, tax, and national security interests and remains consistent with Congressional intent.” The letter notes that OPT and related practical training options “are established by statute rather than direct statutory text,” meaning DHS can change the rules through new regulations.The review comes as the Trump administration pursues tough immigration policies aimed at protecting American workers. Noem wrote that the significant increase in the number of foreign students participating in practical training programs raises potential risks and challenges that the Department of Homeland Security must address.There are more than 300,000 Indian students studying in the United States, many of whom rely on OPT and STEM extensions to gain work experience and build careers in the country. These rule changes could have a direct impact on their ability to stay and work after graduation.Under the Department of Homeland Security’s proposed review process, the Department intends to re-evaluate the practical training provisions for foreign student visa holders through a rulemaking process. The review could result in revisions to existing regulations designed to better protect U.S. workers, address fraud and national security concerns, and improve oversight of student and exchange visitor programs.Senator Schmidt previously called OPT a “workfare” created by regulation rather than law. He said it could distort the U.S. job market and encourage visa-driven admissions without proper oversight. His advocacy prompted the Department of Homeland Security to begin a detailed reassessment.The potential changes have students and immigration experts questioning the policies. They warn that any tightening of OPT could make the U.S. less attractive to international students and impact the economy.