
If you are an international student dreaming about studying in the U.S. — or already in the U.S. — you have probably heard some buzz online about a new bill that could cancel the OPT (Optional Practical Training) program. It is totally understandable to feel anxious. But before you let worry take over, let us take a calm and clear look at what is really happening.
The short answer? There is no need to panic. The OPT program is still there, and this new bill is far from becoming a law.
Let us break it down in simple terms.
What is OPT?
OPT stands for Optional Practical Training. It is a special benefit for international students in the U.S. that allows them to work in their field of study after completing their degree.
Here is how it works:
- If you are on an F-1 student visa, you are allowed to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months after you finish your studies.
- If your degree is in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math), you can apply for a 24-month extension, giving you a total of 36 months of work authorization.
This program helps students gain real-world experience and also makes U.S. education more attractive for talented students from around the world. Currently, there are 1.1 million international students in the U.S., and around 331000 are from India alone.
What’s This New Bill All About?
The recent buzz started because Congressman Paul Gosar from Arizona introduced a bill to eliminate the OPT program. This is not the first time he has done this — he proposed a similar bill back in 2020, which did not go anywhere.
It is important to remember: This is just a bill. It is not a law.
In fact, over the past six years, more than 50 immigration-related bills have been introduced in Congress, and most of them never became law. The process of turning a bill into a law is long, complex, and often unsuccessful.
How Does a Bill Become a Law?
Let us walk through the steps. This will help you understand why it is too early to worry.
- A Congressman (or Congresswoman) introduces a bill.
- The bill goes to a committee for study.
- If it passes the committee, it goes to the House of Representatives for debate, possible changes, and voting. There are 435 members in the House. A simple majority is needed to pass the bill.
- If it passes the House, the bill goes to the Senate.
- The Senate also studies it, debates, amends, and votes. There are 100 Senators, and again, a simple majority is needed.
- If both chambers pass the bill, a Conference Committee from the House and Senate comes together to sort out any differences.
- The final version goes back to both the House and Senate for final approval.
- Then, it is sent to the President, who can sign it into law or veto it.
- Even after becoming law, it can be challenged in court through the judicial review.
- And finally, if it survives all this, it takes one or two years to actually be implemented.
So you see — the path from bill to law is full of hurdles. Many proposed bills never even make it past step two!
Why OPT Is Important for Everyone — Not Just Students
The OPT program does not just help students. It helps American universities and U.S. companies too.
Here is why:
- Universities depend on international students. International students often pay 2 to 2.5 times more in tuition than American students. This income helps universities run advanced research labs, libraries, sports facilities, and offer high salaries to top professors.
- The U.S. government does not fully fund universities, so they rely heavily on international tuition.
- If the OPT program is removed, many students will think twice before studying in the U.S., and that would cause huge financial stress for universities.
- US companies also benefit from the OPT program because it gives them access to talented, educated, and job-ready graduates. This is especially important in tech, healthcare, engineering, and other high-demand fields.
- Even the current U.S. administration supports skilled immigrants, recognizing their role in innovation and economic growth.
So, Should You Be Worried?
Let us be clear: No, you should not worry right now.
- If you are already studying in the U.S. or planning to join in Fall 2025, you are completely safe.
- This bill is very unlikely to become law. Similar ones have failed before.
- Even if it somehow passes (which is a big “if”), it would take years to implement.
What About the Stuff You See on Social Media?
Social media can sometimes create more fear than facts. You might see dramatic posts saying things like “OPT is being canceled!” or “Do not go to the U.S. now!” But always remember: Just because someone says it online does not make it true. Before believing or sharing anything, check the facts. Read from trusted sources, listen to official university announcements, and do not get caught up in panic.
Final Thoughts: Stay Informed, Not Afraid
The U.S. remains one of the most attractive destinations for international students, especially those from India. The education, the experience, and the opportunity to work under OPT make it a top choice. Yes, a bill has been introduced to cancel OPT. But no, it is not a law, and it is very unlikely to become one anytime soon. So keep your goals on track, stay focused on your studies, and don’t let fear distract you from your dreams.
Stay informed. Stay calm. And most importantly — don’t panic!
Got questions about OPT or studying in the U.S.? Let’s talk!
As India’s leading Study Abroad Consultant, Dilip Oak’s Academy offers a comprehensive suite of admission counseling services that can guide you through the entire process from University Selection to Visa Counseling. In addition to our full-range services, we also provide a dedicated, standalone VISA Counseling service specifically designed to assist you with visa applications. With our expertise, we have successfully sent 33,000 students to various prestigious American universities like MIT, Stanford, Cornell, and Carnegie Mellon. We also offer classroom and online coaching for GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS, as well as GRE Self Prep. Book a free consultation or call us at 91-20-67444222 to boost your chances of success and confidently navigate the competitive application process!