The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has made several changes to international student visasopens in new window that could impact foreign psychologists studying and working in the United States. The changes will:
- Include industrial and organizational psychology among the fields eligible for a STEM extensionopens in new window under optional practical training (OPT). OPT provides a year of work authorization for international students, postgraduation, including an additional two-year extension for STEM graduates.
- Expand the academic training program for J-1 visa holders to 36 months from the previous 18-month maximum. The academic training program is similar to OPT, except it is for graduate and undergraduate students who are on a J-1 visa, while OPT is for those with an F-1 visa. F-1 visas allow full-time students to enter the United States for academic purposes. Most international students are on an F-1 visa. J-1 visas are typically used for educational exchange programs.
- Clarify how eligibility is determined for O-1A visas for individuals with “extraordinary ability” in the sciences, education, business, or athletics and how graduates with advanced degrees in STEM fields can petition for an employment-based visa without having a job offer, so long as their field is considered within the “national interest.”
APA strongly supports these actions, which would help create a more welcoming environment in American higher education and curb the chilling effects that have discouraged international students and scholars from studying in the United States. Last summer, APA applauded DHS for withdrawing a Trump administration proposed rule that would have limited the length of time international students and scholars can remain in the United States while studying or conducting research.
For more information, contact Kenneth Polishchuk.