WASHINGTON— International students in the United States are facing growing uncertainty as tighter visa policies and a cooling job market make it harder to secure employment after graduation.
The changes are affecting thousands of graduates from major universities across cities, including Boston, Dallas, and Washington, D.C.
For years, international students viewed the US as a top destination for higher education and long-term career opportunities.
However, recent changes to the H-1B visa system, along with delays in visa processing and concerns around Optional Practical Training (OPT), have raised fresh concerns among students and employers alike.
US Visa Rules Tighten
The Trump administration introduced a new $100,000 fee for certain H-1B visa applications, significantly increasing costs for employers hiring foreign talent.
The updated system also shifts toward wage-based visa selection instead of the traditional lottery process.
The new measures have added pressure on international graduates already struggling in a competitive job market. Many students said employers now hesitate to move forward once sponsorship requirements enter the conversation.
Students on OPT, a programme that allows international graduates to work in the US for up to three years after completing STEM degrees, are also worried about future restrictions.
Federal officials have publicly questioned the programme’s long-term future, adding uncertainty for students planning careers in the country.
At universities such as the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston University, and Purdue University, career counsellors report growing anxiety among graduating students.
Some applicants said they submitted hundreds of applications before receiving interview opportunities.
Employers Pull Back
US employers are becoming more cautious about sponsoring foreign workers because of rising legal costs and changing immigration rules.
Universities tracking recruitment trends have already noticed a decline in companies willing to offer visa sponsorships.
Career advisers say companies increasingly prefer domestic candidates to avoid lengthy paperwork and uncertainty. Smaller firms, in particular, are finding it difficult to justify additional hiring expenses tied to visa programmes.
The situation has also disrupted research and academic work.
According to Business Standard, Iranian graduate Ghazal Rastegar, who completed her PhD research in Texas, has reportedly been unable to begin her postdoctoral work because of visa processing restrictions affecting applicants from several countries.
Industry experts warn that stricter policies could weaken a major talent pipeline for the US economy.
International students account for a large share of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics graduates across American universities.
Universities Face Impact
Universities could also face financial pressure if fewer international students choose US institutions. Many colleges rely heavily on tuition revenue from overseas students, who often pay full fees.
Education consultants say students are now exploring alternative destinations such as Canada, Australia, and European countries, where immigration pathways appear more predictable.
Some graduates have already decided to leave the US after completing their studies instead of pursuing long-term employment.
Despite the challenges, some students still remain optimistic about finding opportunities in the country. However, many now approach the process with backup plans and greater caution as immigration rules continue to evolve.
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