For instance, a rule finalized in early July replaces “duration of status” for foreign students, exchange visitors and foreign journalists with fixed admission periods. In other words, it forces international students to seek government approval to stay beyond four years, regardless of whether their studies can be completed that quickly. The authors examine the pipeline through which international students — particularly those studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics — enter American universities and eventually the American workforce. Giving a cold shoulder to foreign students is particularly absurd when you consider Washington’s obsession with competing against China. Indeed, the possibility that the world’s brightest young people will decide that America is no longer worth the trouble should terrify us.