US Gets One Step Closer to Kill OPT Program

Trump’s immigration crackdown continues, and the international students continue to face the brunt of it.

Joseph Edlow, Trump’s nominee to head USCIS (US Citizenship and Immigration Services), just cleared a key Senate hurdle and is now one step away from becoming the agency’s director.

F-1 students and aspirants are closely monitoring this situation as Edlow has made his intentions very clear to kill the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. It is a major lifeline for thousands of Indian students who seek work experience after graduation before landing an H-1B visa.

While Edlow’s move would likely face legal resistance, the threat is very real, especially under a Trump White House that’s already eyeing harsher policies. This has set many students studying in the country, including those already working, in panic.

This crackdown is not only a headache for students but it could backfire on the US economy. Talented youth may simply choose Canada, or Europe, or return home, taking their skills and energy to a place that respects them enough to give them opportunities.