What is Optional Practical Training (OPT) Programme in US?

January 2, 2025

The Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme has become a focal point of discussion among supporters of US President-elect Donald Trump’s ‘Make America Great Again’ (MAGA) initiative. This programme serves as a critical pathway for international students seeking to secure an H-1B visa. It allows students to gain work experience in their field of study, which enhances their employability in the competitive US job market.

What is the OPT Programme?

The OPT programme permits international students on an F-1 visa to work temporarily in the US.
Students can work for up to 12 months in roles directly related to their major.
There are two types of OPT – pre-completion and post-completion.
Pre-completion OPT allows students to work part-time during their studies and full-time during breaks.
Post-completion OPT requires students to work at least 20 hours per week after graduation.

Eligibility Criteria for OPT

To qualify for the OPT programme, students must be enrolled full-time for at least one academic year. They must apply through their academic institution, which can recommend them for OPT. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) oversees the application process. Students maintaining F-1 status can remain in the US while working under OPT.

Extension for STEM Graduates

Students who graduate in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields can extend their post-completion OPT by an additional 24 months. This extension allows STEM graduates to work in the US for a total of three years. The USCIS maintains a list of eligible degree programmes for this extension.

Current Statistics on OPT Participation

According to the 2023-24 Open Doors data, approximately 27.47% of the 883,000 international students in the US are participating in the OPT programme. Among the 331,000 Indian students in the US, 29.42% are enrolled in OPT, marking an increase from previous years. The demand for STEM courses remains high, with percentages of Indian students pursuing engineering and computer science.

Key Criticisms

Critics claim the program lacks Congressional approval and competes unfairly with US graduates for jobs.
It is referred to as the “largest guest worker program” that displaces jobs for new American college graduates.
Supporters of MAGA have voiced opposition to the OPT programme, particularly the STEM extension. They argue that it competes with American jobs, claiming that foreign workers displace US citizens.
In 2023, the WashTech organisation challenged the validity of the STEM OPT extension in the Supreme Court. However, the court declined to review the case, upholding the programme’s validity.

OPT allows F-1 visa holders to work in the US.
STEM graduates can extend OPT by 24 months.
WashTech challenged the STEM OPT in the Supreme Court.
27.47% of international students are in the OPT programme.
Indian students make up the largest cohort in OPT.

Future of the OPT Programme

The future of the OPT programme remains uncertain amid ongoing debates regarding immigration policy in the United States. Changes in administration and public sentiment may influence the programme’s structure and its perceived value in the job market. As international students continue to seek opportunities in the US, the OPT programme will likely remain a vital component of their educational experience.

What is the MAGA Movement?

The MAGA (Make America Great Again) movement emerged during Donald Trump’s 2016 presidential campaign.
It was founded on the belief that the US lost its “greatness” due to foreign influence (immigration, multiculturalism, globalization).
It advocates “America first” policies, emphasizing economic protectionism, reduced immigration, and traditional American values.

Core Beliefs and Policies

Economic Protectionism:
- Tariffs on imports (e.g., China, Canada, EU).
- Opposition to globalization and policies seen as undermining US industries.
Immigration Control:
- Restricting immigration, especially from developing nations.
- Examples:
  - 2017 Muslim Ban: Targeted seven Muslim-majority countries, later extended to include North Korea and Venezuelan officials.
  - Border wall construction along the US-Mexico border.