This bill amends federal immigration law to officially establish and protect the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which allows international students to work in the United States after completing their studies. Currently, OPT operates under administrative rules that could change; this legislation would enshrine it into law, ensuring international students can gain practical work experience in their field of study for an extended period after graduation. The bill also clarifies that students with pending employment-based visa applications can maintain their student status while working under OPT. The legislation affects international students studying in the United States and employers who hire them for entry-level positions. No specific funding or implementation timeline is specified in the bill text; the Secretary of Homeland Security would set the detailed terms and conditions for the program.
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