OPT and H-1B in flux: 2025 U.S. policy moves are shaping student decisions for 2026

New U.S. policies on OPT and H-1B visas are influencing international student choices for 2026 amid evolving work rights.
University of Wyoming

Optional Practical Training

What is Optional Practical Training? Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a temporary employment benefit that allows an F-1 student visa holder to remain in the US and gain additional training and ...
The Financial Express

OPT Program: Bill, seeking an end to tax exemptions for foreign students, introduced

OPT program allows foreign students to gain work experience in US companies for up to 12 or 24 months. (Bloomberg) The international students working in the US under the OPT program may soon see a ...
Rochester Institute of Technology

24-Month STEM OPT Extension

The 24-Month STEM OPT Extension adds an additional 2 years of work authorization to the year of Initial Optional Practical Training. This allows you to participate in up to 3 years of OPT. You must ...
Rochester Institute of Technology

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment directly related to your major area of study. You may apply for 12 months of OPT per degree level plus a possible 24-month extension for those ...
SUNY-ESF

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is temporary employment authorization for practical training directly related to a student’s major field of study. Standard OPT is available for a cumulative maximum ...