Archive · 8 Oct 2026
US Proposes $70,000 Fee for First-Time OPT Participation
The US government has proposed new fees connected to a work programme for international students.
Under the proposal, a school would pay $70,000 the first time a student takes part in OPT.
The school would pay $30,000 for each later renewal.
OPT lets students work in jobs related to what they studied after finishing school.
Some science and technology graduates can work for up to three years.
The Department of Homeland Security says the fees are meant to address cheating and misuse of the programme.
The rule is only a proposal, and people have 60 days to comment.
It could also face legal challenges before taking effect.
The Department of Homeland Security proposed a $70,000 fee for an institution when a student participates in Optional Practical Training for the first time.
The proposal would require a $30,000 fee from the school for every subsequent renewal.
OPT lets eligible international students work in the United States after completing their studies; eligible science, technology, engineering and math graduates may work for up to three years.
DHS said the proposed fees respond to alleged fraud and abuse, including problematic worksites and pay-to-stay arrangements.
The public has 60 days to comment; the proposal could face legal challenges before it is finalised.
- Who
- The Department of Homeland Security proposed the rule; educational institutions would pay the fees for participating students.
- What
- A proposed $70,000 fee for a student's first OPT participation and $30,000 for each subsequent renewal.
- When
- The proposal was reported on October 7; the public has 60 days to comment.
- Where
- The United States.
- Why
- DHS says the proposal is intended to address fraud and abuse of the OPT programme.
DHS rationale
Potential concerns
Fees and programme oversight
DHS rationale
DHS says the proposal responds to fraud and abuse and that OPT should not become a route to cheap foreign labour.
Potential concerns
The article says the proposal could affect international students and may face legal challenges from higher education groups or business associations; it does not specify their arguments.
- First participation fee
- $70,000, payable by the educational institution
- Subsequent renewal fee
- $30,000, payable by the school for each subsequent renewal
- Public comment period
- 60 days
- Standard OPT duration
- One year after completing studies
- Eligible STEM OPT duration
- Up to three years
- Indian students in the US
- More than 363,000 enrolled in the 2024–25 academic year, according to the article
- Potential legal challenges
- Higher education groups or business associations could challenge the proposal, potentially delaying it