The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has proposed a major new fee structure for Optional Practical Training (OPT), under which educational institutions could be required to pay $70,000 for an initial OPT recommendation for an F-1 international student and $30,000 for subsequent recommendations, including STEM OPT extensions.
The proposal is part of a DHS rulemaking initiative concerning fees associated with the Optional Practical Training programme, which allows eligible international students on F-1 visas to gain temporary practical work experience related to their field of study in the United States.
Importantly, the proposed fees would technically be charged to Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified educational institutions, rather than directly to international students. However, universities could potentially consider the additional cost when determining fees or other charges for students.
$70,000 FEE PROPOSED FOR INITIAL OPT RECOMMENDATION
The proposed structure would apply $70,000 to a school’s first OPT recommendation for an F-1 student. A subsequent OPT recommendation, including an extension under the STEM OPT programme, would carry a proposed $30,000 fee.
PROPOSED OPT FEES NOT YET IN EFFECT
The proposal has not yet taken effect. It remains subject to the US federal rulemaking process, including a period for public comments and further consideration by the Department of Homeland Security.
OPT is an important pathway for international students graduating from US universities, allowing eligible F-1 students to work in the United States in positions related to their academic field. STEM graduates who meet the eligibility requirements can seek an additional 24 months of employment authorisation through the STEM OPT extension.
The proposed fees could therefore have significant implications for universities that support international students seeking OPT opportunities. The ultimate impact on students will depend, among other factors, on how individual institutions respond to the proposed costs.
The DHS proposal comes amid broader changes to US immigration and international student policies. International students and universities are expected to closely monitor the rulemaking process before the proposed fees can become effective.
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