Trump Allies Push to End Work Program for International Students

The Optional Practical Training program faces criticism from U.S. Tech Workers and far-right groups for allegedly threatening job opportunities for American graduates.

• The Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows international students to work in the U.S. for up to three years after graduation, particularly benefiting STEM graduates.
• Critics, including U.S. Tech Workers, claim the program operates as a 'guest worker scheme' and unfairly competes with American college graduates for jobs.
• Supporters argue that the program helps attract international talent, bolsters the U.S. economy, and supports industries like tech, healthcare, and engineering.
• Indian students, who make up a significant portion of OPT participants, would be heavily impacted if the program were discontinued, along with U.S. universities reliant on international tuition fees.
• The program's future remains uncertain, with some policymakers advocating for its elimination while others highlight its economic and cultural benefits.

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