Indian students participating in the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program in the US are facing increasing challenges, exacerbated by rising anti-immigrant rhetoric. The OPT program, which allows F-1 visa holders to work in their field for up to 12 months post-graduation (with a 24-month extension for STEM fields), is crucial for gaining work experience. The 2023-24 academic year recorded 97,556 Indian students on OPT, a 41% increase from the previous year.

However, derogatory comments from MAGA supporters and uncertainties surrounding the H-1B visa lottery have heightened concerns. Students fear that the incoming Trump administration might impose restrictions on OPT, further complicating their employment prospects. Recent changes aimed at making the H-1B lottery system fairer have improved selection rates but have not eliminated challenges like fraudulent job offers and unclear pathways for visa extensions.

Experts advise students to work with verified employers and use trusted resources to avoid scams. Despite these hurdles, the US remains a top destination for Indian students due to its leadership in fields like AI and robotics. The growing number of Indian students on OPT reflects confidence in US opportunities, though concerns over potential policy changes persist.

Immigration experts believe major reforms to the OPT program are unlikely without legal and legislative backing, offering some reassurance amid the uncertainty.