US OPT fee proposal

In late July 2026 the Trump administration began weighing a proposal to impose a $100,000 charge on the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program, which lets international graduates work in the United States for up to three years after completing their studies. The fee, still under discussion within the Department of Homeland Security, had not been formalized into a rule.

A follow‑up report in early August confirmed that the measure remained under review and had not been finalized. Officials noted that the fee would apply to students seeking OPT work authorization, with particular concern that it could disproportionately affect Indian students, the largest group of OPT participants, and could deter enrollment and reduce the talent pipeline for technology and finance firms. The proposal follows a previously blocked $100,000 surcharge on H‑1B visas and coincides with a separate $100,000 bond being considered for green‑card applicants. Critics warned of potential harm to U.S. university revenue and the country’s ability to attract global talent.