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The Times of India
The Times of India
World
TOI World Desk

‘Huge blow to Indian students’: DHS letter shows US reviewing OPT work rules, STEM likely most affected

DHS United States India STEM Eric Schmitt Department of Homeland Security the US International Students Kristi Noem National Security

A letter from the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) dated January 9, 2026 shows the administration is formally re‑evaluating the Optional Practical Training (OPT) programme, a post‑study work benefit used by international students on F‑1 visas, including a large number from India.

The review could affect the length of OPT and whether the programme continues to serve US labour, tax and national security interests.

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