The story so far
US Student Fee Proposal
Tracked across 4 sources · Updated 3h ago
Reports indicate the Trump administration is considering a $100,000 fee for international students using Optional Practical Training (OPT) to work in the US after graduation. The proposal, which would impact hundreds of thousands of students, especially Indians, has sparked outrage and concerns about its effects on universities and businesses.
How it unfolded
11h ago
Indian students would be hit hardest; outrage grows
1d ago
Report reveals proposed $100,000 fee on foreign student work permits
What happened earlier
Latest updates
Latest
Full story →Seeking job in US? Trump weighs $100,000 work permit fee from foreign graduates
The Trump administration is considering a $100,000 fee for international students' work permits under the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program.
The proposed fee would apply to the OPT program, which allows international graduates to work in the US on student visas for up to three years.
Around 419,000 foreign graduates were working under OPT in 2024, and the measure could reduce the appeal of studying in the US.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is discussing the fee, but it is unclear if it will be paid by students, universities, or employers.
The administration is also preparing broader OPT regulations, expected this fall, following a similar $100,000 H-1B visa fee that was blocked by a federal appeals court.
Earlier · 15h ago
Full story →Trump admin may impose $100,000 fee on foreign students seeking US jobs; report sparks outrage, 'stupid idea'
The Trump administration is considering a $100,000 fee for international students who want to work in the US after graduating, linked to the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program.
Around 419,000 international graduates were employed through OPT in 2024, according to government data cited by The Wall Street Journal.
The proposed fee could make the US less attractive for international students and impact universities that rely on tuition revenue, as well as employers in sectors like technology and finance that hire through OPT.
The OPT fee proposal follows a legal setback for a separate $100,000 fee on certain H-1B applicants, which was blocked by a federal appeals court in Boston.
The proposal has not been formally announced and has sparked criticism online, with some calling it a 'stupid idea.'