U.S. Bill Supports Alternative Education Program for International Students

Washington, March 20: U.S. lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan bill aimed at securing a vital program for international students. This initiative will help retain thousands of foreign graduates, including those from India, amid increasing global competition for skilled talent.

Representatives Sam Liccardo, Jay Obernolte, and Indian-American Raja Krishnamoorthi unveiled the “Keep Innovators in America Act,” which seeks to codify the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program into law. This will provide long-term certainty for students, universities, and employers.

The bill proposes amendments to the Immigration and Nationality Act, granting international students formal permission for practical training and employment related to their field of study, including time after graduation.

For over three decades, both parties have maintained OPT through regulations. Lawmakers argue that incorporating it into law will prevent sudden policy changes and ensure continuity.

Liccardo stated, “We have a choice: educate the brightest students in America and contribute to our nation’s success, or send them back to China, India, and other competitive countries where they might start companies that compete against us.”

Obernolte added that this bill will bring clarity and accountability to the program. “Incorporating the OPT program into law will provide clarity and accountability to a system that allows students to gain practical experience in their field of study.” He emphasized that retaining talent is crucial in an era of rising global competition.

This move comes at a time when the Trump administration indicated in November that it might terminate the OPT program, raising concerns that trained talent in the U.S. could shift to other countries.

International students play a significant role in the U.S. economy. In the 2024–2025 academic year alone, they contributed $42.9 billion, supporting businesses, research institutions, and local communities.

The bill has garnered broad support from industry groups, universities, and immigration advocates. Jill Welch, Executive Director of the U.S. for Success Coalition, stated that Congress has the opportunity to provide clarity and stability by codifying OPT, ensuring that America remains a top destination for global talent.

Linda Moore, President and CEO of TechNet, described the bill as a sensible, bipartisan step to strengthen American innovation and competitiveness, offering long-term certainty for students, universities, and employers.

Todd Salt, President of FWDA, remarked that allowing international students to work after their studies is not just common sense but essential for the long-term economic strength of the country.

According to Benjamin Johnson, Executive Director of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, international students are the backbone of America’s innovation system and a strong driver for local economies. He noted that they contribute over $40 billion annually and support millions of jobs.

Education groups report that in the 2024–2025 academic year, over 290,000 international students participated in OPT, many in STEM fields, helping to address workforce shortages.

Industry leaders have also emphasized national security and economic importance. Jason Oxman, President and CEO of the Information Technology Industry Council, stated that this bill ensures that the best students receive practical training and employment opportunities in the U.S., not abroad.

Scott Corley, Executive Director of Compete America, said that maintaining OPT is a crucial step toward keeping top talent in the U.S. and ensuring that our economy, national security, and innovation system remain the strongest in the world.

This issue holds particular significance for India, as Indian students comprise one of the largest groups of international students in the U.S., many of whom rely on OPT as a bridge between education and employment.

OPT has long complemented the H-1B visa system, allowing graduates to gain work experience before pursuing long-term employment pathways. This program is especially vital in STEM fields, where U.S. employers continually face talent shortages.

In recent years, global competition for skilled workers has intensified, with countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia expanding post-study work options to attract international students.

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