Emory University, along with over 110 colleges and universities, filed an amicus brief in support of the federal Optional Practical Training (OPT) program which allows international students to work in a U.S.-based job directly related to their field of study.

This case, Washington Alliance of Technology Workers Union v. U.S. Department of Homeland Security, involves a legal challenge to the OPT program. The brief, filed Nov. 25, notes: “[OPT] is a longstanding government program that permits international students to continue, and deepen, their education by applying the skills and knowledge they learn in the classroom to a professional setting. OPT provides untold benefits for these international students. But, just as critical, being able to provide international students with the opportunities facilitated by OPT gives American institutions of higher education an edge in an increasingly competitive global education market.” 

Emory is home to more than 3,000 international students and the university values the diversity of its students, faculty and staff.

International students seeking information about OPT should reach out to their International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) advisor.