US immigration plans to phase in premium processing for international students seeking OPT and STEM OPT extensions, two weeks after introducing new measures that allow F-1 visa applications to be lodged further in advance.
Leading international education bodies have renewed calls for the US administration to produce a national strategy to support the sector’s growth and ensure the country remains competitive.
A private, for-profit institution in the US has closed after its accrediting agency lost its status to operate in the country.
In the past five years, some 77% of international STEM doctoral grads from US universities remained in the country after graduation, research has found.
The recent US briefing widening STEM OPT opportunities, has been welcomed by sector stakeholders but students highlight difficulties getting jobs in the country.
Stakeholders are seeking clarification on whether continuing international students will be allowed to enter the US as part of the NIE.
The diminishing appeal of the US could have devastating effects on the US’ competitiveness in fields such as AI and superconductor manufacturing, according to an ACE report.
More than 150 US institutions have put their weight behind an amicus brief in support of OPT opportunities for international graduates in the country, following a renewed legal threat from WashTech.
