Indian students in US grapple with changing visa rules

Currently, most graduating students are applying for optional practical training (OPT) — a programme that enables F-1 visa holders to work in the US for up to one year after completing their degree, with an additional 24-month extension available for eligible science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) graduates.

However, the broader economic situation in the US is not particularly welcoming to foreign workers. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, of the 3.52 lakh people aged 20 to 29 who completed an associate degree between January and October 2024, 78.1 per cent were employed by October 2024.

Lack of clarity

For many Indian students currently in the US, the new policy has sparked both anxiety and cautious optimism. A 26-year-old from Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, who completed a master’s in computer science in 2024, said the rule had complicated his job prospects.

“I’m one of those who will be badly affected by this new H-1B visa rule, as I cannot apply for the upcoming lottery. We’re consulting lawyers to see if students can be exempted, but we still need clarity,” he said, adding that most students choose US universities for global exposure, international credentials, and better pay.

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“Many candidates have challenged the president’s order, and everyone’s waiting for the court’s decision. I hope the government provides relief so people like me can stay and work here,” he added.

Even immigration attorneys, the student noted, are uncertain about the scope of the regulation. “Some predicted exemptions may come for critical sectors. The wage-based system could actually be fairer compared to the steep $100,000 fee,” he said.

Chell Roberts, Dean of the University of San Diego, added that while legal challenges are already underway, uncertainty continues to loom. “Will it survive judicial scrutiny? Will exceptions be carved out for critical industries? Or will it shift again, as so many policies in Washington have over the past six months? The truth is, no one knows,” he said.

Meanwhile, a third-year MBA in Financial Analytics (STEM) graduate from Hyderabad, currently working as a senior financial analyst at a US conglomerate, struck a pragmatic note: “I’m on my F-1 OPT with two years left on my STEM extension. I wanted to stay and learn in this competitive market, but after the new rule, I’ve decided to stay flexible — repay my loans, save, and if needed, explore opportunities in India or elsewhere.”

‘Value education as a stepping stone’

Some Indian graduates who have studied and worked in the US believe the new policy will primarily affect those with average academic profiles. Those with strong degrees and in-demand skills will still find a path forward. A 26-year-old economics and international relations graduate from a Boston college shared his experience

“After graduation, I worked on OPT for four years at a finance company that later sponsored my H-1B visa. After gaining experience, I applied to a top US law school and was accepted early this year, but my enrolment got delayed for the next year due to the visa rule. I’ll therefore continue at my present company until next year,” he said.

He added that those with valuable skills and credentials have less to fear. “My ex-classmates aren’t worried because they’re adding value to their work. But those with weaker or devalued degrees will struggle to stay in America,” he said.

He urged aspirants to approach US education with clarity of purpose. “Apply only if you’re passionate about your field. Look for scholarships— they save a lot of money. Be clear about your goals and treat education as a stepping stone.”

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While acknowledging India’s growth, he noted persistent workplace hierarchies that deter him from working in India. “In the US, if you have a point, you can make your case. I want to study law and work on the digital piracy issue—the US is the best place for that. While I’m keeping options open elsewhere, settling in India is unlikely.”

‘The door isn’t closing, it’s becoming more selective’

For Indian students in their final year, experts recommend focusing on quality and employability. “Choose programmes with strong industry alignment and clear career outcomes,” said Aman Singh, co-founder of edtech firm GradRight. “The US still offers unparalleled opportunities for education, research, and entrepreneurship.”

While the immediate future looks uncertain, Singh said the visa overhaul may prompt Indian students to make “smarter academic and career choices”.

“We see this as an opportunity. The US wants the best global talent. That’s not bad news—it’s a call to prepare better, aim higher, and make thoughtful study-abroad decisions. Therefore, the door isn’t closing; it’s becoming more selective,” he added.

Despite the anxiety, Dean Roberts urged students to stay resilient. “This moment may feel overwhelming, but it is not the end,” he said. “Policy turbulence often precedes new opportunities. If I were a student in India, I wouldn’t let this policy define my path. Invest in the best education possible and build resilience to thrive in a future reshaped by artificial intelligence and global change.”