The OPT Foreign ‘Student’ Work Program: End It, Don’t Mend It

May 14, 2026 · WOWERI

Recent months have seen a series of blockbuster fraud stories. The latest revelation comes from the Department of Homeland Security: massive abuse of the work program for former foreign students. The Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows foreign students to work in the US for a certain period after completing their studies.

The OPT Foreign Student Work Program

The Optional Practical Training (OPT) program allows foreign students to work in the US for a certain period after completing their studies. However, recent months have seen a series of blockbuster fraud stories, including massive abuse of the OPT program.

How the OPT Program Works

The OPT program allows foreign students to work in the US for 12 months after completing their studies. However, some students may extend their work period up to 36 months if they work in a STEM field (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).

Abuse of the OPT Program

The latest revelation comes from the Department of Homeland Security: massive abuse of the OPT program. According to a report, many foreign students are using the OPT program to work in the US without the required qualifications or experience.

What You Need to Know

If you are a foreign student working in the US under the OPT program, you need to know that the program is under scrutiny and control. You must ensure that you are working in accordance with the program's conditions and that you are not abusing it.

What to Do

If you are a foreign student working in the US under the OPT program, you should review the program's conditions and ensure that you are working in accordance with them. You can also contact USCIS for more information.

Source: cis.org