Are you an F-1 visa holder? 3 recent changes every international student in the US should know

For international students pursuing higher education in the United States, the F-1 visa has long been the gateway to academic and professional opportunities. The F-1 visa, officially designated as a non-immigrant student visa, allows individuals to enter the US to attend accredited educational institutions, complete their studies, and in many cases, gain practical training experience through programs like Optional Practical Training (OPT) and STEM OPT extensions. Recent policy updates from the US government, however, signal shifts that every F-1 visa holder should be aware of, alongside broader changes affecting employment-based visas like the H-1B. Understanding these developments is critical for planning your academic trajectory and career path. On September 19, 2025, a presidentia