Trump deals a new immigration blow to international students: Here’s why US universities could lose thousands

The Trump administration has proposed a new immigration rule limiting international students’ stays in the US to a fixed four-year period. The change replaces the current duration of status system, restricting programme transfers and adding visa extension requirements for Optional Practical Training (OPT). Educators warn this could reduce international enrolment and harm US universities. The rule, justified on national security grounds, faces criticism for its potential impact on research and academic freedom.