0
0
Request to Enhance OPT Rules for Retaining U.S. Trained STEM Graduates
Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS) submitted following asks to the USCIS and the DHS on OPT for foreign students.
On behalf of Foundation for India and Indian Diaspora Studies, we submit a request from foreign students educating in the US universities to make key rules changes in the Optional Practical Training (OPT). We observe a huge gap between graduating students and available H1B missing them an opportunity to contribute to the US industry while fulfilling their American dream. Our analysis concludes that OPT changes are essential not only for retaining highly skilled STEM graduates within the United States but also for ensuring our nation’s continued leadership in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.
We request following changes in OPT rules:
- Extension of STEM OPT Period: Extending the STEM OPT period from 24 months to 48 months for eligible students with degrees in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) fields.
- OPT application period: Extend the time period for applying OPT post-graduation from 60days to 180days.
- Enhancement of H-1B Visa Lottery Chances for STEM Graduates: Providing STEM degree holders with six times the chances of being selected in the H-1B visa lottery compared to non-STEM degree holders.
Given the evolving landscape of global technology and the increasing challenges posed in artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, retaining highly skilled STEM talent within our borders is not just an economic imperative but a matter of national security. The National Security Agency (NSA) has highlighted a talent deficit in emerging technologies as a national security threat. Retaining U.S. trained STEM professionals is critical to establishing a competitive advantage in these areas. By extending the OPT period, providing extra H-1B visa allocations, and increasing lottery chances, we can retain the talent that is vital for maintaining our technological edge and national security.
Furthermore, this initiative has a significant economic impact. Foreign students contribute immensely to the U.S. economy, bringing nearly $10 billion to our universities in terms of fees and expenses. They also enrich our academic environment and foster cross-cultural understanding. Without the proposed rule changes, the dream of continuing their education and careers in the United States becomes increasingly difficult for these talented individuals. This uncertainty might lead them to explore educational opportunities in other countries such as Canada, the UK, Australia, New Zealand, and others, which would adversely impact U.S. universities and our economy in the long run.
Therefore, we urge the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to swiftly implement these changes. By doing so, we not only retain the talent that fuels our innovation but also sustain the economic benefits that these students bring to our nation.
We appreciate your attention to this matter and the critical role USCIS plays in shaping our nation’s technological future. Thank you for your time and consideration.
As FIIDS continue to campaign for these changes, they need help to put pressure on the USCIS, you can help in two ways:
- Strategic help from organization leaders: If you represent any group, institution, organization, or company, please contact FIIDS to offer your support. info@fiids-usa.org and khanderao@fiids-usa.org
- Funding: FIIDS funding to continue their campaign. Please consider donating to support their work. http://fiids-usa.org/donate or Zelle donate2fiids@gmail.com (501 C 3 tax exempt)
Together, we can make a difference for legal immigrants in the US.
