For most of the Trump presidency, restricting or eliminating Optional Practical Training, including in STEM fields, has been on the regulatory agenda. Optional Practical Training permits international students to work in the U.S. for 12 months or an additional 24 months in a STEM-related job, usually after graduation. Trump administration officials have favored other restrictions on international students, including a proposal to eliminate “duration of status” for students, which universities argue would increase uncertainty by requiring new approvals from government adjudicators for students simply to stay and continue studying.

Next Trump Immigration Target: OPT For International Students
The argument for eliminating Optional Practical Training is weak. The case for admitting international students to America is strong.
