Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) Under Threat: U.S. Proposals Could Reshape Student Visa Work Rules
- Mati Lio
- Sep 23, 2025
- 4 min read
For decades, Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Curricular Practical Training (CPT) have been lifelines for international students in the U.S. These programs allow F-1 visa holders to gain valuable work experience during or after their studies — often serving as stepping stones to long-term careers or employment sponsorships.
But in 2025, OPT and CPT are facing their most serious threats yet. A combination of legislative proposals, political rhetoric, and agency leadership signals has raised alarm among students, universities, and employers alike.
The Legislative Front: H.R. 2315
In April 2025, Representative Paul Gosar introduced H.R. 2315, the “Fairness for High-Skilled Americans Act of 2025.” The bill explicitly seeks to eliminate the OPT program unless Congress votes to reauthorize it.
Supporters of the bill argue that OPT disadvantages American workers by allowing foreign students to work without payroll taxes.
Opponents warn that cutting OPT would severely damage U.S. competitiveness, as international students contribute billions to the economy and often fill critical roles in STEM fields.
At this stage, H.R. 2315 remains a proposed bill — it must pass both the House and Senate before being signed into law. Historically, similar bills have failed, but its introduction highlights the growing political pressure on student work programs.
The Administrative Front: USCIS Leadership
Alongside legislative moves, leadership at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has also voiced concern. Joseph Edlow, appointed Director of USCIS earlier this year, has stated that he favors removing employment authorization “beyond the time that students are in school.”
This suggests that even if Congress does not act, the agency may explore regulatory avenues to restrict or roll back OPT and CPT. For example, USCIS could:
Shorten the length of OPT or STEM OPT extensions.
Tighten eligibility requirements for CPT.
Increase filing burdens and oversight for universities.
Why OPT and CPT Matter
OPT currently provides up to 12 months of work authorization after completing a degree. STEM graduates may extend this to 36 months.
CPT allows students to gain work experience during their studies, often through internships or cooperative education programs.
These programs bridge the gap between study and employment, giving students real-world experience and time to apply for employer-sponsored visas like the H-1B.
Without OPT and CPT, international students would graduate and face immediate uncertainty, often being forced to leave the U.S. without gaining work experience.
Reactions from the Community
Universities: Higher education institutions strongly oppose eliminating OPT, warning that it would make U.S. schools far less attractive compared to Canada, the U.K., and Australia — all of which allow work after study.
Employers: Tech companies and research institutions rely heavily on OPT and STEM OPT to access skilled talent pipelines. Many have publicly urged DHS to maintain the programs.
Students: Anxiety is growing. Some are considering alternatives like Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) or Australia’s Temporary Graduate Visa.
Legal and Policy Context
This isn’t the first time OPT has come under fire:
In 2020, lawsuits challenged DHS’s authority to run OPT. A federal appeals court upheld the program, affirming its legality.
However, each new administration can revisit regulations, meaning the future of OPT is never fully guaranteed.
What Could Happen Next
1. If H.R. 2315 passes → OPT could be eliminated unless Congress reauthorizes it, potentially leaving hundreds of thousands of students without post-study work options.
2. If USCIS pursues regulation → We may see shorter OPT durations, stricter eligibility for CPT, or additional compliance requirements.
3. If both efforts fail → OPT and CPT may remain intact, but the constant uncertainty could still deter students from choosing the U.S.
What International Students Should Do Now
1. Apply Early: If you’re graduating soon, file for OPT as early as allowed. Current rules are still in place.
2. Talk to Your DSO: Your school’s Designated School Official (DSO) can give tailored advice on CPT and OPT applications.
3. Monitor Official Sources: Follow USCIS, DHS, and the Federal Register for real-time updates.
4. Consider Alternatives: Look into other visa pathways (e.g., H-1B, O-1) or study/work opportunities in other countries.
5. Stay Connected: Join international student networks and advocacy groups. Collective voices during public comment periods can influence final rules.
The Bottom Line
The future of OPT and CPT is uncertain but not decided.
Programs remain fully valid as of today.
Proposals in Congress and statements from USCIS leadership signal possible restrictions or elimination.
International students should stay informed, act early, and plan backups while policymakers debate the future.
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Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration policies may change rapidly. Always consult USCIS guidance or an immigration attorney for advice on your personal situation.
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