FASEB Supports Extension of STEM OPT Training Plan Collection

By: Nabila Riaz
Wednesday, May 21, 2025
On May 16, FASEB submitted comments to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in support of the proposed extension of the collection of training plans for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Optional Practical Training (OPT) students.

OPT program allows international students in STEM fields to work in the U.S. for up to three years after graduation. It has become increasingly popular, as highlighted in the 2024 Open Doors Report on International Educational Exchange, which noted that in FY 2023, 276,452 students were authorized for post-completion OPT and an additional 122,101 students for STEM OPT. 

In its comments, FASEB expressed appreciation for DHS’s efforts to streamline administrative processes, particularly improvements to Form I-983, which serves as both a planning and evidentiary document for STEM OPT. FASEB supported the continued collection of STEM OPT training plans, emphasizing that the proposal would ease unnecessary burdens on international scholars and help maintain U.S. competitiveness by encouraging emerging scientists to pursue advanced education and research careers in the U.S. 

FASEB also highlighted the contributions of international students and their families to the U.S. economy, providing a detailed analysis across all states and congressional districts. In the 2023–24 academic year, international students contributed $43.8 billion to the U.S. economy and supported 378,175 jobs. FASEB noted concerns that ending or restricting the STEM OPT program would eliminate the only dedicated work pathway for many international graduates—potentially driving global talent elsewhere and weakening the U.S. as a destination for future scholars.