Trump Moves To Restrict Internships For Foreign Students
Universities Warned They Could Lose Certification Over Misuse Of Work Authorisations
The Donald Trump administration has issued new guidance seeking to restrict certain internship work authorisations available to international students at US universities, warning institutions that fail to comply with federal regulations could lose their certification to enrol foreign students.
A federal memo dated August 24 said the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP), which operates under US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), had observed an increase in Curricular Practical Training (CPT) authorisations that appeared to violate regulatory requirements.
The memo said CPT is permitted only when the practical training is “an integral part of an established curriculum”. The administration has raised concerns that some universities may be approving internships that do not sufficiently meet that requirement.
CPT allows F-1 international students to undertake internships, cooperative education and other forms of practical training related to their academic programmes while studying in the US. Students generally need authorisation from their university before beginning such work.
The new guidance is expected to prompt universities to review how they approve CPT applications and ensure that internships are directly connected to students’ courses of study.
The administration has warned that universities could face consequences, including losing their certification under the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System, if they fail to comply with federal requirements.
The move could affect thousands of international students who rely on internships to gain professional experience during their studies. Indian students, who form one of the largest groups of international students in the US, could also be affected.
The latest guidance comes amid broader efforts by the Trump administration to tighten immigration controls and increase scrutiny of international students and universities.
Universities are now expected to assess their existing CPT programmes and ensure that internship placements meet federal requirements. Further clarification from US immigration authorities could determine how broadly the new restrictions are implemented.
