WASHINGTON — The Trump administration has proposed a major new fee for international students seeking work experience in the United States under the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program.
Under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proposal, a certified educational institution would pay $70,000 for an F-1 student’s initial OPT recommendation. A further $30,000 fee would apply to each subsequent OPT recommendation.
The proposal does not directly charge the student. However, schools could pass the cost to students, employers or other parties under the proposed rules.
DHS said the fees would help combat fraud, strengthen the immigration system and protect US workers. The agency also said the measure would address concerns about misuse of the OPT program.
OPT Program Could Become Far More Expensive
OPT allows F-1 international students to gain practical work experience related to their studies.
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Students can use OPT during their studies or after graduation. Most students can receive up to 12 months of post-completion OPT, while eligible STEM graduates can receive an additional 24 months.
The proposed fee would represent a sharp increase from current costs. Students currently pay a USCIS fee for their employment authorization application, while universities do not currently pay a separate fee for making an OPT recommendation.
The proposed $70,000 fee would apply to the first OPT recommendation after the rule takes effect. The $30,000 fee would apply to later OPT recommendations, including additional periods of OPT and STEM extensions.
Proposal Could Affect US Tech Talent Pipeline
OPT has long served as an important route for international graduates seeking professional experience in the United States.
The program is also closely linked to the H-1B system. Many international graduates, particularly in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, use OPT before seeking longer-term employment through H-1B visas.
US technology companies have relied heavily on international graduates to fill skilled positions. A sharp increase in the cost of OPT could therefore affect universities, employers and foreign graduates.
The proposal comes as the Trump administration pursues broader changes to the US immigration system, including higher costs and tighter requirements for some foreign-worker programs.
Trump Previously Backed Green Cards for Foreign Graduates
The proposal also contrasts with comments Donald Trump made during his 2024 presidential campaign.
Trump said at the time that foreign students graduating from US universities should have a path to remain in the country. He suggested that graduates could receive Green Cards after completing their studies.
The administration has since introduced several measures aimed at tightening rules for foreign students and workers.
Legal Challenges Expected
The proposed OPT fees are likely to face legal challenges if DHS moves to finalize the rule.
Immigration lawyers and education groups have raised concerns about the potential impact of the fees on international students and US institutions. Similar immigration measures introduced by the Trump administration have already faced lawsuits.
The proposal is not yet in effect. DHS must first review public comments before deciding whether to issue a final rule. The agency has proposed allowing a period for schools, students and employers to prepare before implementation.
For now, international students continue to follow the existing OPT rules and fee structure.
