The Trump administration is considering a proposal to impose a $100,000 fee on the Optional Practical Training program, potentially increasing costs for international graduates seeking work in the U.S.
WASHINGTON, DC – The Trump administration is weighing a significant proposal that could impose a $100,000 fee associated with the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. This move could dramatically elevate the financial burden on international graduates seeking employment in the United States after completing their studies.
According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, discussions regarding the proposed fee are ongoing within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). However, officials have not yet determined whether the fee would be the responsibility of students, employers, or universities. DHS has stated that no proposal should be considered final until it is officially announced.
The OPT program allows eligible international students to work in the U.S. for a duration of one to three years following the completion of their degrees. In 2024, approximately 419,000 international graduates were employed under this program, highlighting its significance for both students and the U.S. labor market.
In addition to the proposed fee, the administration is preparing to implement broader changes to OPT regulations, which could be introduced as early as this fall. Earlier this month, officials announced that international students would now be required to apply for visa extensions to participate in OPT, replacing the previous “duration of status” system.
This proposal comes at a time when U.S. universities are already grappling with challenges in attracting international students. Factors such as visa delays, increased scrutiny, and shifts in immigration policy have made it more difficult for institutions to recruit talent from abroad.
For many international students, the opportunity to work in the U.S. after graduation is a significant factor in their decision to attend American universities. The potential introduction of a hefty fee may lead these students to consider other countries that are actively seeking to attract them.
The proposed fee could also have implications for employers, particularly in sectors such as technology, engineering, and finance. These industries have historically relied on the OPT program to hire international graduates before sponsoring them for H-1B visas.
As discussions continue, the future of the OPT program and its associated costs remains uncertain, leaving many students and employers awaiting further clarification from the administration.
For more details, refer to The Wall Street Journal.