STEM OPT Jobs Surge 54 Percent in 2024

In 2024, 194,554 international students worked in the U.S. through Optional Practical Training, with 95,384 in STEM fields, a 54 percent increase. Total international enrollment reached 1.58 million, supporting $43.8 billion in economic activity and 378,175 jobs. Rising visa hurdles are pushing some students to consider Canada, the U.K., and Australia.