it seems everything listed in Project 2025 has been implemented or is on its way to being implemented. I don’t think the US will get rid of OPT completely, but they may follow the UK’s step of shortening the duration. What do you guys think?
I really hope they don’t mess with OPT. It’s already tough enough out here 
I believe STEM OPT is at risk, as it was established not through legislation but by executive order. I hope the administration will provide advance notice of any changes rather than cutting it off abruptly—if cancellation is truly unavoidable.
It’s hard for me to believe it’s true, but I feel like STEM OPT is really risky.
I think every visa is risky rn… even H1b
That’s a very valid concern—and you’re not alone in thinking this. Project 2025 has gone from sounding like a theoretical policy wish list to a blueprint that’s slowly materializing piece by piece. While outright elimination of OPT seems unlikely (too many universities and industries rely on it), a UK-style reduction in duration—like cutting STEM OPT back to 12 months or removing post-completion OPT altogether—is definitely within the realm of possibility under a more restriction-focused administration.
The signs are already there: increasing scrutiny of CPT/OPT employers, growing delays in processing, and narratives painting international students as loopholes in the immigration system. The danger isn’t always in loud policy changes—it’s in quiet restrictions that slowly choke the program’s effectiveness.
So yeah, I agree: OPT might stay in name, but its length, flexibility, and accessibility could be severely trimmed. If you’re currently a student or planning a future move, it’s more important than ever to plan ahead, stay up-to-date, and have alternative pathways (like Day 1 CPT or early H-1B prep) in place—just in case the rules shift again.
Honestly, with the economy not doing well, the government needs a distraction—they’re shifting the blame toward groups that have the least power to fight back . That’s the current vibe: conservative, exclusionary, and quick to point fingers at immigrants and international students.
Yeah I’ve been thinking about this too. I don’t think they’ll get rid of OPT altogether—it’s too tied to the U.S. remaining competitive in STEM—but shortening the duration? Totally possible, especially if the Project 2025 crowd gets their way.
The UK slashing their post-study work visa already sent a message, and the U.S. might follow if enough people push the “protect American jobs” narrative. Sucks because international students are already jumping through so many hoops just to get basic work experience.
Honestly, now feels like the time to have a backup plan—whether it’s Day 1 CPT, J-1, or even looking at other countries. The ground’s shifting fast.
time to head for the hills 
and by hills i mean canada
The pessimistic side of me is honestly thinking “Does it matter? I can’t find a job anyways ” but maybe that’s why having more time is so valuable. Gonna try to stay calm, but be mentally prepared for a Plan B!
I don’t think they would do that because otherwise nobody would like to come to the U.S., and all those private institutes will go bankrupt.