Trump’s USCIS Nominee Threatens to End OPT Program for International Students
Date: May 27, 2025
Author: Sunil Dhawan
In a move alarming international students and U.S. universities alike, Joseph Edlow, President Trump’s nominee to head the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), stated during his Senate confirmation hearing that he plans to end the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program if confirmed.
What is OPT?
The Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows international students on F-1 visas to work in the United States in roles directly related to their field of study for up to 12 months after graduation, with an additional 24-month STEM extension available for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) graduates.
In the academic year 2023–2024:
-
1.1 million international students studied in the U.S. (an all-time high)
-
Over 242,782 students participated in OPT (up by 22% from the previous year)
-
OPT participation saw further 12% growth in 2024–25, particularly in STEM fields
Edlow’s Statement
During his testimony before the Senate Judiciary Committee, Edlow criticized the legal framework surrounding OPT and expressed intent to revoke work authorization for F-1 students after graduation, calling for a regulatory overhaul:
“I want to see a regulatory and sub-regulatory program that removes the ability for employment authorizations for F-1 students beyond the time they are in school,” Edlow said.
This stance appears to conflict with President Trump’s 2024 campaign promise to offer green cards to international graduates, signaling potential internal disagreements within the administration on immigration policy.
Backlash from Academia and Industry
Education experts, business leaders, and economists have warned that dismantling OPT would:
-
Undermine U.S. universities’ ability to attract top international talent
-
Hurt American companies that rely on skilled STEM graduates
-
Damage the U.S.’s reputation as a global leader in education and innovation
Conclusion
If implemented, the termination of the OPT program would have significant implications for international students and employers across the U.S. education and business sectors. Stakeholders are closely watching Edlow’s confirmation process, as well as the potential shift in immigration policy under a Trump-led administration.
